18K gold signifies a minimum gold content of 75%. Its distinctive rose-red hue is partly attributed to the precise proportion of copper, ensuring the warm, reddish tone remains enduring. Rose gold technology, centuries old, operates on a simple principle: adjusting the 6-part alloy mix (besides 18 parts gold) within the 24 part composition. Higher copper content yields a redder hue; reducing copper and increasing silver shifts the color towards pink, showcasing the unique allure of precious metals.
18K Gold-Plated): This construction features a stainless steel inner case enveloped by a layer of gold alloy, mechanically bonded into a single unit. Thickness is measured in microns (1 micron = 1/1000 mm), typically ranging from 2-3 microns, with a maximum of 10-15 microns.
925 Silver: An ancient precious metal, 925 silver was the predominant material for pocket watches in the 18th century and earlier. The "925" denotes its purity level (92.5% silver), though higher purities exist. Being a reactive metal, silver readily tarnishes by forming black silver sulfide when exposed to sulfur in the air. This tendency to lose luster due to moisture and environmental factors makes it far less prevalent than gold in modern watchmaking. To combat tarnishing, a protective layer of rhodium (often referred to as "white gold" plating in this context) is typically electroplated onto the surface.