Soviet-Era Gold-Tone Watch Dial, Marked 'MADE IN USSR'
Watch Component (Dial) · Pale Yellow Gold tone, likely achieved through electroplating or a lacquer finish over a metal substrate.
Purity: Non-solid gold; likely a thin gold plating or chemical gilding over a brass or alloy base metal. Gold content is negligible for scrap value.
Type
Watch Component (Dial)
Purity
Non-solid gold; likely a thin gold plating or chemical gilding over a brass or alloy base metal. Gold content is negligible for scrap value.
Gold Type
Pale Yellow Gold tone, likely achieved through electroplating or a lacquer finish over a metal substrate.
Weight
1.0 - 2.5 grams. The item is a very thin metal disc typical of horological components.
Description
A circular watch dial salvaged from a vintage Soviet-made timepiece. The dial features a sunburst texture and applied hour indices. Despite its gold appearance, it is a base-metal component designed for aesthetic appeal rather than precious metal investment. It demonstrates the utility and mass-production techniques of the Cold War-era Soviet horological industry.
Key Features
English 'MADE IN USSR' stamp, notched perimeter, applied rectangular indices, and a sunburst pattern. The heavy patina indicates exposure to moisture and age.
Color & Finish
Pale champagne/yellow gold appearance with a sunburst brushed finish; heavy oxidation, greenish verdigris, and surface pitting are present.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'MADE IN USSR' on the lower right quadrant; handwritten etchings and markings near the center post hole likely from a service technician.
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter of approximately 28mm to 32mm; thickness of <0.5mm; standard for a men's vintage wristwatch.
Gemstones & Inlays
No gemstones; contains rectangular applied hour markers with potentially decayed tritium or luminous paint inserts.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; contains a center hole for the handset and a perimeter notch for alignment within a watch case.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; flat circular plate construction with two mounting feet likely on the reverse side (not visible).
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-stamped brass plate with applied indices. The printing for the minute track and the 'Made in' stamp is industrial-grade transfer printing (pad printing).
Authentication Indicators
The 'MADE IN USSR' stamp is consistent with genuine export models from that era; however, the lack of a brand name (like Poljot, Raketa, or Vostok) suggests it may be a replacement part or a heavily degraded original.
Origin & Maker
Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR); likely manufactured by the First or Second Moscow Watch Factory (Poljot or Slava).
Era & Period
Late Soviet Era (circa 1970-1991); identifiable by the English 'MADE IN USSR' export marking and minimalist blocky aesthetic.
Age Estimate
Circa 1975-1985; consistent with the transition from traditional Cyrillic markings to English for global export markets.
Cultural Significance
Represents the industrial output of the Soviet Union's 'Glavchasprom' (Chief Administration of the Watch Industry) during its peak export period to Western markets.
Condition Notes
Poor/Fair. Significant corrosion, oxidation (green rust), surface scratching, and fading of the gold-tone finish. The dial feet may be damaged or missing.
Value Estimate
Minimal ($1 - $10 USD). The value is purely for horological salvage or as a curiosity/educational piece. It contains no meaningful gold melt value.
Care & Maintenance
Do not use moisture or cleaning chemicals; use a soft dry brush for dust. Keep away from humidity to prevent further verdigris growth.
Similar Items
Vintage Swiss-made gold-plated dials, contemporary gold-tone brass dials, or solid 14K/18K gold dials found in high-end luxury watches (rare in this style).
Interesting Facts
During the Soviet era, watch factories were state-owned and produced millions of pieces annually. Gold-toned dials were often made by electroplating gold (usually 5 to 20 microns thick) over brass.