Specifications of a Gold Watch and the Percentage of Gold Used in the Watch:
You certainly know that a golden-colored watch is not made of gold! But how can we be sure that the watch we are wearing or planning to buy is a real gold watch? What are the exact specifications of a gold watch, and how can we tell the difference between it and other watches? While recognizing a gold watch might seem difficult, understanding the different types of gold-plated watch surfaces makes it easier.
What Carat of Gold is Used in a Gold Watch?
The carat of gold used in a gold wristwatch should be specified. Pure gold with 22 or 24 carats is usually not used because it is too soft and has low resistance. Gold with 14 and 18 carats, which is more durable, is commonly used in these watches. Sometimes, watches may use gold with even lower carat values, which naturally makes them cheaper. So, when purchasing a gold watch, pay attention to the number written on the back of the watch or its certificate.
What Does the 18k or 22k Mark on the Back of a Gold Watch Mean?
The first thing you should notice when buying a gold watch is the “k” or “karat” mark. The combination of this symbol and the number next to it indicates the carat of gold used in your wristwatch. For example, if you see the 22k mark on the back of the watch, it means that the 22-carat gold contains 22 parts of pure gold mixed with two parts of other alloys like copper, silver, nickel, and zinc. All 22-carat gold is also known as 916 gold because it contains 91.67% pure gold. The texture of this gold is harder and more durable than 24-carat gold because of the trace amounts of mixed metals. Therefore, 22-carat gold is used to make jewelry and watches.
How to Make a Gold Watch:
To make a men’s or gold watch, first, based on the customer’s order, we select the desired color of gold, such as rose gold, yellow, or white.
We need to use gold bars to achieve the specific color the customer wants. For instance, if the customer wants a rose gold watch, the gold bars will be used to create that color.
The materials used to make the gold watch are sourced from a well-known German company. This ensures that the gold has a good polish and is smooth and fluid enough for casting, providing a good surface for us to work with.
We first mix the gold bar with the desired alloy, melt it, and form it into pellets. After turning it into pellets, we remove the acid and impurities from the surface.
Next, we place the mold for the watch in a space that reaches 800°C, then cool it back down to 640°C, which is the ideal temperature for casting. We melt the metal and pour it into the watch mold’s cylinder.
Using a special machine, we perform a vacuum casting, melt the metal, and pour it into the mold for the watch’s band, movement, and case.
The next step involves casting all the watch parts in branches, and then we perform the de-greasing process. After that, we remove all the plaster using a water jet or acid. The pieces are then removed from the machine in a shape that includes all the necessary parts for the watch, in the form of gold. We separate the properly cast parts from the main branch.
These parts include the watch band links and the watch case.
Afterward, we de-grease them using ammonia acid or hydrochloric acid to remove any impurities. Then, we place the pieces in a machine with a magnet, or what we refer to as pellets, to finish the process.
Methods to Identify Genuine Gold Watches:
When buying or selling a gold watch, it is essential to first ensure its authenticity. There are several methods to identify the authenticity of an old gold watch, which we will review below:
- Karat: This can indicate a karat range from 24 (or 999) to 6 (220).
- Color: This indicates whether the gold is yellow, white, or rose.
- Place of Manufacture: This tells you the city where the gold was made.
- Manufacturing Method: This shows whether the gold piece has been plated, filled, or coated.
Benefits of Wearing a Gold Watch:
Buying a gold watch, like any other product, has its pros and cons. However, the advantages of buying a gold watch outweigh the disadvantages.
- Gold watches do not get damaged over time, and their monetary value is preserved. A gold watch is an excellent option for showcasing your style at events and parties.
- If the watch gets damaged or scratched, it can be re-plated and polished.
- For those who want to stand out and look unique, a gold watch can be a great choice.
- Wearing a gold watch connects you deeply with the past, as gold has been a valuable metal since the dawn of human civilization.
- If you love luxury and expensive items and want to show them off, we recommend buying a gold watch.
Clever Tricks to Identify a Gold Watch:
One of the most reliable methods to identify a gold watch is by using the watch’s certificate of authenticity. The certificate is an official document issued by the manufacturer or an authorized authority and contains detailed information about the watch. The certificate should include the following information:
- Brand and Model: The name of the brand and the model of the watch should be clearly stated.
- Serial Number: The unique serial number of the watch, usually engraved on the watch itself.
- Gold Karat: The karat of gold and details about the type of metal used in the watch.
- Production Date: The date the watch was manufactured and information about the production period.
- Technical Specifications: Detailed technical specifications, including the type of movement (mechanical or quartz), band material, glass type, and more.
To verify the authenticity of the certificate, you should match the details in the certificate with the watch in question. This includes checking the serial number, gold karat, brand and model, and other technical details. Any discrepancies or missing information may indicate that the watch or the certificate is fake.
Acid Test for Identifying Gold Watches:
The acid test is a common method for verifying the authenticity of a gold watch. In this method, a drop of acid (usually nitric acid) is applied to the surface of the gold, and the reaction with the watch is observed. Nitric acid typically reacts strongly with metals like copper and aluminum, but has a weaker reaction with gold and platinum. Therefore, if the acid drop is applied to the watch and there is no strong reaction or the gold remains undamaged, it is likely that the watch is made of pure gold or platinum. However, if a strong reaction occurs or the gold’s color changes, the watch is probably made of another alloy or is a fake.
Although this method is commonly used to identify old gold watches, due to the potential risks and damage it could cause to the watch, it is recommended that this test be performed by experienced jewelry experts.
Key Features to Consider When Buying a Gold Watch:
When buying a gold watch, it is important to consider several key factors to ensure you are making the right choice. These include the watch’s movement, size, fit, as well as the brand and craftsmanship.
Investing in a gold watch is not just about owning an opulent timepiece, but also about making a statement. A gold watch exudes elegance and can symbolize success and wealth. With this in mind, let’s take a deeper look at the key features to consider when purchasing a gold watch.
Solid Gold Watches:
The history of gold watches dates back to the early 16th century when pocket watches were first introduced. Initially, these watches were primarily made for the aristocracy and royal families.
With the advancement of technology, watchmakers began incorporating gold into their designs and created luxurious pieces that were not only functional but also symbols of the wealth and status of the wearer.
One notable example is the Patek Philippe Henry Graves Supercomplication, a fully gold pocket watch. This watch, made in 1933 for American banker Henry Graves Jr., is considered one of the most complicated watches ever made. This exceptional timepiece showcases the skill and luxury of gold watches.
Over the centuries, gold watches continued to evolve with various styles and designs to meet the changing tastes and trends.
During the Art Deco period of the 1920s and 1930s, gold watches with geometric shapes and intricate engravings became highly popular. These watches were not just functional timepieces but also works of art that reflected the glamour and complexity of the era.
In the 1970s, gold watches regained their popularity with the introduction of the Rolex Day-Date, also known as the “President” watch. This iconic timepiece, featuring a gold case and bracelet, became a symbol of power and prestige.
Rose Gold Watches:
Rose gold watches have gained significant popularity in recent years. The warm and romantic color of rose gold gives a unique allure to any watch.
Typically, rose gold watches are made from an alloy of gold and copper to achieve their distinct color. This combination creates a delicate and refined appearance, which is appealing to men seeking a modern twist on traditional gold watches.
In addition to its aesthetic appeal, rose gold is also known for its durability. The copper alloy used in rose gold watches increases the watch’s strength and longevity, making it an excellent choice for those with an active lifestyle.
Furthermore, the versatility of rose gold allows it to complement a wide range of skin tones, making it a popular choice among men of various backgrounds.
Gold-Plated Watches:
Gold-plated watches are made from various materials that are covered with a thin layer of gold. A gold-plated watch offers an affordable alternative to more expensive timepieces – it gives the stylish appearance of a gold accessory at a more budget-friendly price.
Exclusive watch brands typically do not use gold plating, as this manufacturing method is not long-lasting or of the highest quality.
Gold Watches Never Go Out of Fashion:
The use of gold in watches has generally been for aesthetic purposes.
The first gold watches date back to between 1533 and 1603 and were made for Queen Elizabeth I. They were adorned with emeralds, pearls, and other precious stones.
Since gold watches have always been considered a symbol of status, they have remained popular throughout the years.
Gold was initially used in watches for its resistance to corrosion, which made it a popular choice for marine chronometers.
The desirability of the material also contributed to the growing popularity of gold, and a watch made from gold became synonymous with prosperity and style.
The introduction of other materials gave consumers more choices in the luxury watch market. While it may have seemed that gold’s popularity was diminishing, it was simply that the selection of stylish materials expanded.
Final words:
Finding the best gold watch is primarily a matter of personal preference. Fortunately, there are many excellent luxury watch options available for you to choose from.
If you’re interested in exploring the best models and brands, be sure to check out our watches in our online store to find the finest luxury timepieces. And if you can’t find the watch model you’re looking for in our online store, contact us through our sourcing service or chat with us on WhatsApp. We can source most watches within a day.
