Vintage 70s Ricoh Automatic 22J Cal 280 Square Black Dial Date 32mm Gold Watch

About this watch

A striking square Japanese automatic from the 1970s. The black dial has a gold-tone inner frame, applied gold markers, gold hands and a date window at 3 o'clock, with the Ricoh logo below 12.

The 32mm square gold-plated case has decorative screw details at the corners and a steel back. Inside is the Ricoh calibre 280 automatic movement with 22 jewels, signed "Ricoh Automatic Japan". It is fitted with a black textured leather strap.

Brand heritage

Ricoh's watchmaking goes back to Takano, a Japanese clock maker with roots in 1899. Takano was taken over by Ricoh in 1962, became Ricoh Watch Co. in 1963, and its watches were sold under the Ricoh name from then on. In the 1960s and 1970s Ricoh made wristwatches for both the Japanese and international markets; the watch division was renamed Ricoh Elemex in 1986.

Vintage Ricoh automatics are far less common than Seiko or Citizen, which makes them an interesting find for collectors of Japanese watches.

Why this one is special

• Ricoh calibre 280 automatic, 22 jewels
• Bold square case with screw-detail bezel
• Black and gold 1970s styling
• Uncommon Japanese brand

Specifications

• Brand: Ricoh
• Era: 1970s
• Case size: 32 mm square, gold plated, steel back
• Case thickness: approx. 10 mm
• Movement: Ricoh cal. 280 automatic, 22 jewels, Japan
• Functions: hours, minutes, centre seconds, date
• Dial: black with gold-tone markers
• Strap: black leather

Condition

Vintage pre-owned condition with honest age: the gold plating shows wear and tarnish, most visibly around the back of the case, and the strap shows signs of use. Please check all photos carefully as they are part of the description.
Working at time of listing.

What's included

The watch. Display box shown for presentation.

Shipping & Returns

Ships from Cairo, Egypt. Please see the shipping and returns details in this listing.