25 Jewels Watch Appraisal

Appella 25 Jewels Open-Heart Automatic Watch

This is an Appella branded wristwatch featuring an automatic movement with 25 jewels, as indicated on the dial. The watch presents a rectangular, tonneau-shaped case, crafted in a gold-tone metal, likely stainless steel plated or PVD coated, giving it a luxurious appearance. The dial is black with applied gold-tone indices for hours, including Roman numerals at the 3, 6, 9, and 12 o'clock positions (represented as III, VI, IX, and XII, though XII is obscured by the open heart). The most prominent feature is the 'open heart' design at the 12 o'clock position (where the 'XII' numeral would typically be), which reveals the oscillating balance wheel and other intricate components of the automatic movement, highlighted by visible rubies. The hands are gold-tone, with a dauphine style or similar elegant tapered design. The watch is fitted with a two-tone metal bracelet, featuring alternating gold-tone and silver-tone links, suggesting a stainless steel construction for the silver-tone parts and gold-tone plating for the gold-tone parts. The bracelet exhibits some visible wear and tarnishing on the gold-tone sections, particularly on the top link near the case, suggesting frequent use or age. The silver-tone links also show signs of light scratching and dulling. The crown is located on the right side of the case and appears to be gold-toned and fluted for easy grip. The overall style is classic and somewhat dressy, likely intended for a formal or business casual setting. No direct manufacturing date is visible, but the style of open-heart automatic watches became popular in the late 20th century and continues into the 21st. The visible wear on the bracelet indicates it is not new, and the finish on the gold-tone parts may have faded or chipped in areas.