Regal Quartz 'Sapphire' Ref. R12102 Black Strap Watch

Estimated value
$15 - $45Rarity
Common(2/10)Category
WatchesBrand
RegalEra
c. 2010-2020Origin
πΈπͺ SwedenAuthenticity
REGAL QUARTZ 'SAPPHIRE' REF. R12102 BLACK STRAP WATCH: IDENTIFICATION
This is a contemporary quartz-regulated wristwatch produced by the Swedish retail brand Regal. The timepiece features a polished stainless steel or base-metal alloy case with a white dial utilizing printed Arabic numerals and an outer minute track. Leaf-style hands indicate time, and the dial includes a 'Sapphire' text designation, likely referring to the crystal material. The caseback is a snap-on type, laser-etched with the reference number R12102 and a 5 ATM water resistance rating. It is mounted on a non-original or standard synthetic leather black strap with a simple tang buckle.
Compare with other watches in the archive: Angus & Coote 'Faithful Lever' Pocket Watch (Elgin Movement) c.1915, Baume & Mercier Geneve Ladies Wristwatch c.1970s, Baume & Mercier Geneva Vintage Square Dress Watch c.1970.
PRODUCTION & REFERENCE HISTORY
SCARCITY
Older mass-produced items still widely available. Easy to find on eBay, antique malls, and estate sales in large quantities.
Rarity 2/10. Curiosa currently catalogues 19 watches items at rarity 2 or higher.
Typical Characteristics
- Mass produced historically
- High survival rate
- Readily available everywhere
Confidence Factors
- Low-value fashion watches are rarely subjects of forgery
- Caseback markings match known Ur&Penn retail specifications
- Construction techniques (laser etching, snap-back) are consistent with mass-market production
WATCHMAKER'S ASSESSMENT
Vintage Watchmaker & Horology Specialist
The branding and reference numbers are clearly visible on the caseback, allowing for a precise identification of the manufacturer and market segment.
KEY EVIDENCE
- 1Reference number R12102 matches Swedish retail database for Regal watches.
- 2Dial indicates 'Sapphire' crystal, a premium feature for a fashion-tier watch.
- 3Snap-on caseback indicates a low-cost quartz movement, likely a Miyota or Epson caliber.
- 4Lugs show standard spring bar construction for 16mm or 18mm straps.
- 5Water resistance marked as 5 ATM, standard for light splashing but not diving.
UNCERTAINTIES
- β’The strap shows significant internal cracking and may fail soon.
WHAT WOULD IMPROVE CERTAINTY
- βIdentify if the movement is currently running; if not, check for battery leakage at the terminal.
- βExamine the crystal under a 10x loupe to see if scratches are present, which helps distinguish between mineral glass and true sapphire.
CONDITION & GRADE
Grading breakdown
The strap is nearing the end of its functional life due to cracking at the buckle points. The case maintains its structural integrity and the dial shows no signs of moisture ingress or UV fading.
Condition
Significant creasing and surface cracking are visible on the interior of the black strap, suggesting material fatigue. The case shows light 'desk diving' scratches, but the crystal appears free of major fractures.
WATCH MARKET VALUE
Updated: May 10, 2026
Who buys this
Casual wearers seeking a reliable daily timepiece or budget-conscious collectors of Scandinavian retail brands.
What increases value
- β’Functionality (whether the movement is running)
- β’Crystal integrity, especially if actually sapphire
- β’Cleanliness of the white dial
What lowers value
- β’The worn strap requires immediate replacement, which may cost more than the watch's current market value
- β’Dead batteries left inside for years can leak and destroy the quartz circuit
What makes top-tier examples
- β’Original box and papers increase resale value slightly
- β’New old stock (NOS) condition with original tags
Grade & condition
Condition of the crystal, case plating wear, and movement functionality.
Rarity & demand
For informational purposes only, not a formal appraisal.
SIMILAR CURIOSITIES
Victorian Heart-Shaped Pendent Watch c.1890
Universa 2000 Sterling Silver Fashion Watch c.1970s
Tavernier 18K Gold Manual Wind Ladies Watch c.1960s
Roamer Rolled Gold Ladies Cocktail Watch c.1960s
Baume & Mercier Geneva Vintage Square Dress Watch c.1970
Swiss Triple Calendar Skeletonized Pocket Watch
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