Gold-Tone Base Metal Wristwatch with Stainless Steel Back
Jewelry (Wristwatch Case) · Unspecified/Entry-level manufacturer; uses generic 'leboncoin' marketplace source. Often associated with fashion or department store brands.
Pattern: Standard circular dress watch case, mid-20th century styling, currently out of production.
Type
Jewelry (Wristwatch Case)
Maker
Unspecified/Entry-level manufacturer; uses generic 'leboncoin' marketplace source. Often associated with fashion or department store brands.
Material
Base metal bezel with gold-tone plating; case back is made of Stainless Steel. Contains no precious silver content.
Dimensions
Estimated case diameter of 30-34mm; lightweight construction typical of non-precious fashion watches.
Description
This is a standard vintage-style dress watch head featuring a gold-toned circular bezel and a contrast stainless steel case back. It lacks a strap but retains its spring bars. The design is reminiscent of Cartier Tank or Rondé styles due to the cabochon crown, but it is a budget-friendly imitation using non-precious materials.
Key Features
Distinguished by the explicit 'Base Metal' stamp which confirms the absence of silver or solid gold; features a decorative jewel-effect crown.
Material & Composition
Base metal bezel with gold-tone plating; case back is made of Stainless Steel. Contains no precious silver content.
Finish & Decoration
Polished gold-tone finish on the front bezel and lugs; brushed/matte circular finish on the stainless steel case back. Cabochon-style crown in black or blue.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'BASE METAL BEZEL' and 'STAINLESS STEEL BACK'. No precious metal hallmarks (no .925, lion passant, or assay marks).
Construction Details
Mass-produced die-struck case back; cast and plated base metal bezel; friction-fit or snap-back closure.
Functional Features
Snap-on case back for movement access; knurled winding/setting crown; integrated lugs for spring bars.
Handle & Grip Details
Includes two stainless steel spring bars for strap attachment; knurled crown for manual adjustment.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-manufactured with minimal hand-finishing; plating is thin, as evidenced by the wear on the lug edges.
Authentication Indicators
The 'Base Metal' stamp is a primary indicator that this is not a silver or gold heirloom piece. No fineness marks are present.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in East Asia (China or Hong Kong) or Switzerland (if movements were involved), typical of mass-market horology.
Era & Period
Modern/Late 20th Century (approx. 1970s-1990s) based on the stamping font and cabochon crown style.
Age Estimate
Circa 1980-1995 based on the wear patterns and 'Base Metal' nomenclature.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury watch styles in the late 20th century, allowing the look of high-end brands at a fraction of the cost.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Visible brassing (gold plating wearing off) on the lugs revealing the base metal beneath. Scratches on the steel back and tarnish on spring bars.
Value Estimate
$5.00 - $20.00 USD; primarily valued for parts or as a low-cost fashion accessory.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a dry microfibre cloth. Avoid silver polish or abrasive cleaners as they will strip the remaining gold-tone plating.
Similar Pieces
Often confused with vintage Sterling Silver 'Must de Cartier' watches, which would be marked '925' or 'Argent'.
Interesting Facts
The term 'Base Metal' in horology usually refers to brass or zinc alloys that are electroplated to mimic the appearance of precious metals.