Preliminary identification

Vintage Casio Analog Quartz 'Tank' Watch, c. 1980s

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

A classic example of 1980s Japanese horology, this Casio features a rectangular 'tank' style case with a minimalist black dial and gold-tone accents.

Story

By the mid-1980s, Casio had already conquered the digital world, but they wanted to prove they could master the boardroom as well. This watch was part of a movement to bring the elegant, architectural lines of high-end European 'tank' watches to the global masses.

Maker / Origin

Founded by the Kashio brothers in 1946, Casio began not with watches, but with a 'yubiwa' pipe for smoking cigarettes while working.

Condition & Value

The watch appears to be in good vintage condition with expected surface wear on the case and bracelet. There are some minor scratches on the crystal which are typical for its age. If the movement is currently stopped, a fresh battery is likely all it needs to return to service.

Full Research

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

Build on this identification

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps

Regional auction

· Jun 2024

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

$1,280

SOLD

Dealer archive

· Mar 2024

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

$1,450

SOLD

Marketplace sale

· Jan 2024

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

$980

SOLD

Estate platform

· Oct 2023

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

$1,150

SOLD

Auction result

· Aug 2023

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.

$1,375

SOLD