Gold watches have been gaining attention in recent years. Accordingly, the number of models with gold-colored exteriors, utilizing surface treatment techniques such as plating and PVD, is once again on the rise. Furthermore, advances in technology have enriched the range of color expression and diversified the designs. Today's "gold-colored" watches are a collection of exquisite pieces that are sure to make you want to pick them up.
Yuzo Takeishi: Editing and writing
Edited & Text by Yuzo Takeishi
*All prices include consumption tax.
Edited & Text by Yuzo Takeishi
*All prices include consumption tax.
Increased appeal due to improved decoration technology and design sense
Seiko Presage/SARX132
Among the Seiko Presage watches, this is the Classic Series, characterized by a design inspired by the "beauty of utility." This model, one of its kind, has a delicate yet elegant appearance thanks to its gold-plated exterior and a dial with a radial pattern reminiscent of silk fabric. Automatic winding (Cal. 6R51). 24 jewels. 21,600 vibrations per hour. Power reserve of approximately 72 hours. Stainless steel case (diameter 36mm, thickness 12.5mm). Water resistant to 10 bar. 132,000 yen. (Inquiries) Seiko Watch Customer Service Tel. 0120-061-012
Among the Seiko Presage watches, this is the Classic Series, characterized by a design inspired by the "beauty of utility." This model, one of its kind, has a delicate yet elegant appearance thanks to its gold-plated exterior and a dial with a radial pattern reminiscent of silk fabric. Automatic winding (Cal. 6R51). 24 jewels. 21,600 vibrations per hour. Power reserve of approximately 72 hours. Stainless steel case (diameter 36mm, thickness 12.5mm). Water resistant to 10 bar. 132,000 yen. (Inquiries) Seiko Watch Customer Service Tel. 0120-061-012
Gold watches have been attracting interest again in recent years due to the rise in value caused by soaring prices. In addition, in recent years, in addition to the standard yellow gold and pink gold, some brands have begun to develop their own gold, resulting in a wide range of delicate colors. This has led to an increase in models with attractive designs, which is also one of the reasons why gold watches have become so popular.
Perhaps in response to this trend, the lineup of "gold-colored" watches, which use a variety of surface treatment techniques to create vibrant exteriors, is also expanding and gaining attention.
Citizen Series Eight 890 Mechanical NB6069-53H
The Series Eight features a sporty look with a sense of unity between the case and bracelet. The five-piece case is plated in warm gold for an elegant look, while the mosaic-style dial creates a modern atmosphere. Automatic movement (Cal. 9051). 24 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve of approximately 42 hours. Stainless steel case (diameter 42.6mm, thickness 11.7mm). Water resistant to 20 bar. Price: 209,000 yen. (Inquiries) Citizen Customer Watch Consultation Center Tel. 0120-78-4807
The Series Eight features a sporty look with a sense of unity between the case and bracelet. The five-piece case is plated in warm gold for an elegant look, while the mosaic-style dial creates a modern atmosphere. Automatic movement (Cal. 9051). 24 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve of approximately 42 hours. Stainless steel case (diameter 42.6mm, thickness 11.7mm). Water resistant to 20 bar. Price: 209,000 yen. (Inquiries) Citizen Customer Watch Consultation Center Tel. 0120-78-4807
Originally, gold plating involved applying a thin gold-colored film to the surface of a base metal, but with older techniques, the plating would often peel off due to friction during wear. However, surface treatment technology has since evolved dramatically. PVD, which vaporizes metal in a vacuum and deposits it on the base metal, and its more advanced form, IP (ion plating), which turns metal into plasma and attaches it to the substrate, have come into use in watches, dramatically improving the durability of the coating. Furthermore, by carefully controlling the type and amount of metal deposited, as well as the processing time, it is now possible to achieve subtle nuances of gold color even with plating.
These surface treatment techniques have broadened the range of designs and increased the appeal of gold-colored models. In addition to improving durability, they also lack the cheap look of the gold-plated watches of the past. And with gold watches now gaining popularity, these models are a great choice for adding to your collection.
"Gold Color" Watch Catalog
Citizen Eco-Drive One AQ5022-02E
The Eco-Drive One features slim proportions thanks to its solar-powered movement, just 1mm thick. This model features a case colored in amber yellow, a new color for the unique surface hardening technology "Duratect." Combined with a black dial, it displays a bold look. Solar-powered Eco-Drive (Cal. 8845). Runs for approximately 7 months on a full charge. Stainless steel case (36.6mm diameter, 4.5mm thick). Water resistant for everyday use. 363,000 yen. (Inquiries) Citizen Customer Watch Consultation Center Tel. 0120-78-4807
The Eco-Drive One features slim proportions thanks to its solar-powered movement, just 1mm thick. This model features a case colored in amber yellow, a new color for the unique surface hardening technology "Duratect." Combined with a black dial, it displays a bold look. Solar-powered Eco-Drive (Cal. 8845). Runs for approximately 7 months on a full charge. Stainless steel case (36.6mm diameter, 4.5mm thick). Water resistant for everyday use. 363,000 yen. (Inquiries) Citizen Customer Watch Consultation Center Tel. 0120-78-4807
Hamilton/Ventura
The Ventura was born in 1957 as the world's first battery-powered wristwatch. This model combines a yellow gold PVD case reminiscent of the models of the time with a blue dial that pays homage to Elvis Presley, who was a Ventura lover, to create a conceptual design. Quartz movement. Stainless steel case (50mm long x 32mm wide, 9.27mm thick). Water resistant to 5 bar. Price: 143,000 yen. (Inquiries) Hamilton/Swatch Group Japan Tel. 03-6254-7371
The Ventura was born in 1957 as the world's first battery-powered wristwatch. This model combines a yellow gold PVD case reminiscent of the models of the time with a blue dial that pays homage to Elvis Presley, who was a Ventura lover, to create a conceptual design. Quartz movement. Stainless steel case (50mm long x 32mm wide, 9.27mm thick). Water resistant to 5 bar. Price: 143,000 yen. (Inquiries) Hamilton/Swatch Group Japan Tel. 03-6254-7371
TAG Heuer / TAG Heuer Aquaracer Professional 200 Solargraph
This silver and gold combination model features a rotating bezel plated with 18K 2N yellow gold. It features solar graph technology that uses light to power the watch, while the dial has a high-quality finish. Solar quartz (Cal. TH50-00). Runs for approximately 10 months on a full charge. Stainless steel case (40mm diameter). 200m water resistant. Estimated price: 621,500 yen. (Inquiries) LVMH Watch & Jewelry Japan TAG Heuer Tel. 03-5635-7030
This silver and gold combination model features a rotating bezel plated with 18K 2N yellow gold. It features solar graph technology that uses light to power the watch, while the dial has a high-quality finish. Solar quartz (Cal. TH50-00). Runs for approximately 10 months on a full charge. Stainless steel case (40mm diameter). 200m water resistant. Estimated price: 621,500 yen. (Inquiries) LVMH Watch & Jewelry Japan TAG Heuer Tel. 03-5635-7030
Rado/Captain Cook Automatic
Not only has it revived the original 1962 model, but the design and specifications have been revised for the modern adventurer. It has a gorgeous impression, but the yellow gold PVD case and high-tech ceramic bezel make it easy to wear on a daily basis. Automatic (Cal. R763). 25 jewels. 21,600 vph. Power reserve of approximately 80 hours. Stainless steel case (diameter 42mm, thickness 12.3mm). Water resistant to 30 bar. 418,000 yen. (Inquiries) Rado/Swatch Group Japan Tel. 03-6254-7330
Not only has it revived the original 1962 model, but the design and specifications have been revised for the modern adventurer. It has a gorgeous impression, but the yellow gold PVD case and high-tech ceramic bezel make it easy to wear on a daily basis. Automatic (Cal. R763). 25 jewels. 21,600 vph. Power reserve of approximately 80 hours. Stainless steel case (diameter 42mm, thickness 12.3mm). Water resistant to 30 bar. 418,000 yen. (Inquiries) Rado/Swatch Group Japan Tel. 03-6254-7330
Raymond Weil/Millesime Moon Phase
This globally popular Millésime moon phase model features a uniquely drawn moon that catches the eye. The rose gold PVD case and midnight blue dial create a night sky-like atmosphere befitting the moon phase. Automatic movement (Cal. RW4280). 26 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve of approximately 41 hours. Stainless steel case (diameter 39.5mm, thickness 10.05mm). Water resistant to 5 bar. Price: 396,000 yen. (Inquiries) GM International Tel. 03-5828-9080
This globally popular Millésime moon phase model features a uniquely drawn moon that catches the eye. The rose gold PVD case and midnight blue dial create a night sky-like atmosphere befitting the moon phase. Automatic movement (Cal. RW4280). 26 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve of approximately 41 hours. Stainless steel case (diameter 39.5mm, thickness 10.05mm). Water resistant to 5 bar. Price: 396,000 yen. (Inquiries) GM International Tel. 03-5828-9080
©︎HERMÈS
Hermes/H Watch
This iconic Hermès model was born in 1996 from designer Philippe Mouquet's innovative idea of incorporating the Maison's initial "H" into the case. The elegant yellow gold plated bezel complements the Epsom leather strap, a staple of Hermès products. Quartz movement. Stainless steel case (34mm x 34mm). Water resistant to 3 bar. Price: 619,300 yen. (Inquiries) Hermès Japon Tel. 03-3569-3300
This iconic Hermès model was born in 1996 from designer Philippe Mouquet's innovative idea of incorporating the Maison's initial "H" into the case. The elegant yellow gold plated bezel complements the Epsom leather strap, a staple of Hermès products. Quartz movement. Stainless steel case (34mm x 34mm). Water resistant to 3 bar. Price: 619,300 yen. (Inquiries) Hermès Japon Tel. 03-3569-3300
Oceanus/Manta S400 Series OCW-S400A-5AJF
The Manta S400 features a simple dial configuration with three hands and a date display, which is unusual for an Oceanus, and a slim case thickness of 9.2mm. The pale beige adorning the sapphire crystal bezel ring and dial is as lustrous as gold, making the design of this watch even more elegant. Tough Solar. Runs for approximately 19 months on a full charge (in power save mode). Ti case (41.3mm diameter, 9.2mm thickness). Water resistant to 10 bar. 170,500 yen. (Inquiries) Casio Computer Customer Service 70120-088925
The Manta S400 features a simple dial configuration with three hands and a date display, which is unusual for an Oceanus, and a slim case thickness of 9.2mm. The pale beige adorning the sapphire crystal bezel ring and dial is as lustrous as gold, making the design of this watch even more elegant. Tough Solar. Runs for approximately 19 months on a full charge (in power save mode). Ti case (41.3mm diameter, 9.2mm thickness). Water resistant to 10 bar. 170,500 yen. (Inquiries) Casio Computer Customer Service 70120-088925
Junghans/Max Bill by Junghans Hand-Wound
This Junghans wristwatch is one of the masterpieces of Max Bill, a designer from the Bauhaus. This is a hand-wound model with a 34mm case similar to the original from 1961, and while it has a minimalist and modern design, the gold PVD case gives it a touch of classicism. Hand-wound (Cal. J805.1). 17 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve of approximately 42 hours. Stainless steel case (34mm diameter, 9mm thick). Water resistant to 5 bar. Price: 264,000 yen. (Inquiries) Europassion Tel. 03-5295-0411
This Junghans wristwatch is one of the masterpieces of Max Bill, a designer from the Bauhaus. This is a hand-wound model with a 34mm case similar to the original from 1961, and while it has a minimalist and modern design, the gold PVD case gives it a touch of classicism. Hand-wound (Cal. J805.1). 17 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve of approximately 42 hours. Stainless steel case (34mm diameter, 9mm thick). Water resistant to 5 bar. Price: 264,000 yen. (Inquiries) Europassion Tel. 03-5295-0411
Maurice Lacroix Aikon Quartz 40mm Duotone
Maurice Lacroix's iconic "Icon" is a collection that pays homage to the 1990s "Calypso" while adding a modern nuance. This quartz model features the iconic bezel claws and bracelet links colored in yellow gold PVD, giving it a look reminiscent of the Calypso of yesteryear. Quartz. Stainless steel case (diameter 40mm, thickness 9mm). Water resistant to 10 bar. 188,100 yen. (Inquiries) DKSH Market Expansion Service Japan cg.csc1@dksh.com
Maurice Lacroix's iconic "Icon" is a collection that pays homage to the 1990s "Calypso" while adding a modern nuance. This quartz model features the iconic bezel claws and bracelet links colored in yellow gold PVD, giving it a look reminiscent of the Calypso of yesteryear. Quartz. Stainless steel case (diameter 40mm, thickness 9mm). Water resistant to 10 bar. 188,100 yen. (Inquiries) DKSH Market Expansion Service Japan cg.csc1@dksh.com
Frederique Constant/Classic Calée Small Second
A new color added to the small second model of the "Classic Cale" released in 2024. The stainless steel case is plated in yellow gold, and combined with the classic Roman numerals, it further enhances the elegant atmosphere. Quartz (Cal. FC-235). SS case (27.6mm long x 25.2mm wide, 5.85mm thick). Water resistant to 3 bar. 203,500 yen. (Inquiries) Frederique Constant Consultation Center Tel. 0570-03-1988
A new color added to the small second model of the "Classic Cale" released in 2024. The stainless steel case is plated in yellow gold, and combined with the classic Roman numerals, it further enhances the elegant atmosphere. Quartz (Cal. FC-235). SS case (27.6mm long x 25.2mm wide, 5.85mm thick). Water resistant to 3 bar. 203,500 yen. (Inquiries) Frederique Constant Consultation Center Tel. 0570-03-1988
Tissot/Tissot PRX Quartz
The Tissot PRX is a modern reinterpretation of the Tissot watch released in 1978, and has been a highly popular collection since its debut in 2021. Among the diverse lineup, this model features a yellow gold case and bracelet and a champagne-colored dial, giving the design a unified feel and a strong vintage feel. Quartz movement. Stainless steel case (40mm diameter, 10.4mm thick). Water resistant to 10 bar. 88,000 yen. (Inquiries) Tissot Tel. 03-6254-5321
The Tissot PRX is a modern reinterpretation of the Tissot watch released in 1978, and has been a highly popular collection since its debut in 2021. Among the diverse lineup, this model features a yellow gold case and bracelet and a champagne-colored dial, giving the design a unified feel and a strong vintage feel. Quartz movement. Stainless steel case (40mm diameter, 10.4mm thick). Water resistant to 10 bar. 88,000 yen. (Inquiries) Tissot Tel. 03-6254-5321
Longines/HydroConquest L3.742.3.96.7
The HydroConquest offers the performance of a full-fledged diver's watch, yet is also designed for everyday use. This model features a striking, bold color scheme, with the bezel scale and bracelet center links colored in yellow gold using PVD processing, combined with a blue dial. Automatic movement (Cal. L888). 21 jewels. 25,200 vph. Power reserve of approximately 72 hours. Stainless steel case (diameter 41mm, thickness 11.9mm). Water resistant to 30 bar. Price: 245,300 yen. (Inquiries) Longines Tel. 03-6254-7350
The HydroConquest offers the performance of a full-fledged diver's watch, yet is also designed for everyday use. This model features a striking, bold color scheme, with the bezel scale and bracelet center links colored in yellow gold using PVD processing, combined with a blue dial. Automatic movement (Cal. L888). 21 jewels. 25,200 vph. Power reserve of approximately 72 hours. Stainless steel case (diameter 41mm, thickness 11.9mm). Water resistant to 30 bar. Price: 245,300 yen. (Inquiries) Longines Tel. 03-6254-7350
Orient/Contemporary Collection RN-AR0007S
The "RN-AR0007S" is a model that uses Orient's familiar semi-skeleton design, which allows you to see the balance wheel movement from the 9 o'clock position on the dial. The case and bracelet are unified in gold, enhancing the classic nuance. Automatic winding (Cal. F6S22). 24 jewels. 21,600 vibrations per hour. Power reserve of over 40 hours. Stainless steel case (diameter 40.8 mm, thickness 10.9 mm). Water resistant to 5 bar. 57,200 yen. (Inquiries) Orient Customer Service Tel. 042-847-3380
The "RN-AR0007S" is a model that uses Orient's familiar semi-skeleton design, which allows you to see the balance wheel movement from the 9 o'clock position on the dial. The case and bracelet are unified in gold, enhancing the classic nuance. Automatic winding (Cal. F6S22). 24 jewels. 21,600 vibrations per hour. Power reserve of over 40 hours. Stainless steel case (diameter 40.8 mm, thickness 10.9 mm). Water resistant to 5 bar. 57,200 yen. (Inquiries) Orient Customer Service Tel. 042-847-3380
Luminox/Navy SEALs Foundation 3200 Series Ref.3221.NSF
Luminox has maintained a partnership with the U.S. Navy SEALs since the brand's founding in 1993. This new addition to the Navy SEALs Fund series, which supports veterans and others, features a gold IP-coated case and unidirectional rotating bezel, giving it a dignified appearance that reflects the watch's high performance. Quartz movement (Cal. Ronda 515). Stainless steel case (43mm diameter, 12mm thick). 200m water resistant. Price: 117,810 yen. (Inquiries) Luminox Lounge Tel. 03-6427-3212
Luminox has maintained a partnership with the U.S. Navy SEALs since the brand's founding in 1993. This new addition to the Navy SEALs Fund series, which supports veterans and others, features a gold IP-coated case and unidirectional rotating bezel, giving it a dignified appearance that reflects the watch's high performance. Quartz movement (Cal. Ronda 515). Stainless steel case (43mm diameter, 12mm thick). 200m water resistant. Price: 117,810 yen. (Inquiries) Luminox Lounge Tel. 03-6427-3212
Hamilton/Bolton
"Bolton" is a highly popular watch with a design that combines Art Deco and American classic style. The gently curved small rectangular case is clad in a lustrous gold color, and the unique font of the indexes contributes to a vintage look. Quartz movement (Cal. 980.163). Stainless steel case (32mm x 27mm, 7.8mm thick). Water resistant to 3 bar. 114,400 yen. (Inquiries) Hamilton/Swatch Group Japan Tel. 03-6254-7371
"Bolton" is a highly popular watch with a design that combines Art Deco and American classic style. The gently curved small rectangular case is clad in a lustrous gold color, and the unique font of the indexes contributes to a vintage look. Quartz movement (Cal. 980.163). Stainless steel case (32mm x 27mm, 7.8mm thick). Water resistant to 3 bar. 114,400 yen. (Inquiries) Hamilton/Swatch Group Japan Tel. 03-6254-7371
Seiko 5 Sports/SNXS Series SBSA295
Among the Seiko 5 Sports watches, the SNXS series is based on the concept of "a companion to carry around every day." The "SBSA295" in this series features a gold dial with a sunray finish, adding an accent to the standard design. Automatic winding (Cal. 4R36). 24 jewels. 21,600 vibrations per hour. Power reserve of approximately 41 hours. Stainless steel case (diameter 37.4mm, thickness 12.5mm). Water resistant to 10 bar. Price: 53,900 yen. (Inquiries) Seiko Watch Customer Service Tel. 0120-061-012
Among the Seiko 5 Sports watches, the SNXS series is based on the concept of "a companion to carry around every day." The "SBSA295" in this series features a gold dial with a sunray finish, adding an accent to the standard design. Automatic winding (Cal. 4R36). 24 jewels. 21,600 vibrations per hour. Power reserve of approximately 41 hours. Stainless steel case (diameter 37.4mm, thickness 12.5mm). Water resistant to 10 bar. Price: 53,900 yen. (Inquiries) Seiko Watch Customer Service Tel. 0120-061-012
Edox/Delphin Original Meccano Automatic
The Delphine, born in 1961, boasts a unique mechanism that makes it water resistant to 200m. This model combines the dodecagonal bezel adopted from the 1973 model with an openwork dial, and the exterior is finished in pink gold PVD, giving it a cutting-edge design yet still exuding elegance. Automatic (Cal. EDOX853). 25 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve approximately 42 hours. Stainless steel case (diameter 43mm, thickness 12.5mm). Water resistant to 20 bar. Price: 346,500 yen. (Inquiries) GM International Tel. 03-5828-9080
The Delphine, born in 1961, boasts a unique mechanism that makes it water resistant to 200m. This model combines the dodecagonal bezel adopted from the 1973 model with an openwork dial, and the exterior is finished in pink gold PVD, giving it a cutting-edge design yet still exuding elegance. Automatic (Cal. EDOX853). 25 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve approximately 42 hours. Stainless steel case (diameter 43mm, thickness 12.5mm). Water resistant to 20 bar. Price: 346,500 yen. (Inquiries) GM International Tel. 03-5828-9080
Bulova Archives Series Computron 97C110
This is a reproduction of the "Computron," released in 1976, featuring a digital display using light-emitting diodes. While retaining the design of placing the display at the bottom of the case, the exterior is now finished in yellow gold PVD with a vertical stripe pattern, faithfully recreating the futuristic design of the 1970s. Quartz movement. Stainless steel case (40.3mm x 31.1mm, 13.8mm thick). Water resistant to 3 bar. Price: 44,000 yen. (Inquiries) Bulova Consultation Center Tel. 0570-03-1390
This is a reproduction of the "Computron," released in 1976, featuring a digital display using light-emitting diodes. While retaining the design of placing the display at the bottom of the case, the exterior is now finished in yellow gold PVD with a vertical stripe pattern, faithfully recreating the futuristic design of the 1970s. Quartz movement. Stainless steel case (40.3mm x 31.1mm, 13.8mm thick). Water resistant to 3 bar. Price: 44,000 yen. (Inquiries) Bulova Consultation Center Tel. 0570-03-1390
G-SHOCK / GMW-BZ5000GD-9JF
Based on over 40 years of accumulated shock-resistance data, the latest full-metal ORIGIN incorporates a new shock-resistant structure and exterior design, co-created by humans and AI. The gold-ion-plated outer bezel and bracelet are finished in polished and hairline to create a luxurious look. Tough Solar. Runs for approximately 22 months on a full charge (in power save mode). Stainless steel case (49.3mm x 43.6mm, 13mm thick). Water resistant to 20 bar. Price: 102,300 yen. (Inquiries) Casio Computer Customer Service Tel. 0120-088925
Based on over 40 years of accumulated shock-resistance data, the latest full-metal ORIGIN incorporates a new shock-resistant structure and exterior design, co-created by humans and AI. The gold-ion-plated outer bezel and bracelet are finished in polished and hairline to create a luxurious look. Tough Solar. Runs for approximately 22 months on a full charge (in power save mode). Stainless steel case (49.3mm x 43.6mm, 13mm thick). Water resistant to 20 bar. Price: 102,300 yen. (Inquiries) Casio Computer Customer Service Tel. 0120-088925
