Wristwatch · Quartz analogue wristwatch

Ricoh Quartz Analogue Wristwatch

Partially verified

This quartz analogue wristwatch is manufactured by the Ricoh Elemex Corporation in Japan, dating to approximately 1996. The timepiece features a round gold-tone case and is fitted with a brown leather strap with a textured finish. The white dial displays the inscription "Heart of Japan GIFU," identifying the piece as a promotional gift issued by the Gifu Prefectural Government. The watch is accompanied by its original Ricoh-branded presentation case and instructional materials. The watch carries the serial number 312106 and the model number J-312-3040.

Ricoh quartz analogue wristwatch with presentation case and instructions, c.1996. — Robinson, Dr. D. A.. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source: collection.sciencemuseumgroup.org.uk
Category: Wristwatch · Quartz analogue wristwatch
Maker / attribution: Ricoh Elemex Corporation
Reference: J-312-3040
Catalogue / lot identifier: 2001-241
Source-reported date: 1990-1996
Source-reported place: Japan
Source-reported serial: 312106

Source-reported attribution and specifications are not independent authentication. A listing does not establish present ownership, current display, availability or permission to reproduce.

Object description

Design and Dial

The watch features a traditional round gold-tone case design with a white dial. The dial layout includes simple markers for the hours and minutes. A distinct graphic element is printed on the dial, which bears the text "Heart of Japan GIFU." This indicates the specific intended purpose of the watch as a promotional item associated with the Gifu Prefecture.

The assembly is paired with a brown leather strap that has a textured surface, mimicking an alligator or crocodile skin pattern.

Evidence for this section

“Dial marked "Heart of Japan GIFU”

Manufacturing and Identification

The wristwatch is identified as a product of the Ricoh Elemex Corporation, a manufacturer based in Japan. The watch is catalogued with the specific model number J-312-3040 and carries the unique serial number 312106.

Documentation provided with the object lists the manufacturing period as 1990-1996. The inclusion of the model number and serial number confirms the specific technical identification of this unit within the broader production run managed by the Ricoh Elemex Corporation.

Evidence for this section

“Ricoh quartz analogue wristwatch, by Ricoh Elemex Corporation, Japan, c.1996.”
“Serial number 312106. Model number J-312-3040.”

Provenance and Presentation

This watch functioned as a promotional gift commissioned by the Gifu Prefectural Government in Japan. It is presented in a dedicated Ricoh-branded case, which features a grey exterior and a pale interior lining. The presentation box includes the Ricoh logo prominently displayed on the interior lid.

In addition to the watch and its case, the item is accompanied by a printed instructional leaflet detailing the operation of the watch.

Evidence for this section

“Promotional gift from Gifu Prefectural Government, Japan.”
“With leather strap, presentation case and instructions.”

Open research questions

Does the model number J-312-3040 correlate to a specific limited-edition production run for the Gifu Prefectural Government?
Are there variations of this model that were produced with different regional promotional branding?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Ricoh Quartz Analogue Wristwatch
Field	Source-reported value	Source quotation
Maker	Ricoh Elemex Corporation	“Ricoh Elemex Corporation”
Date	c.1996	“c.1996”
Serial Number	312106	“Serial number 312106”
Model Number	J-312-3040	“Model number J-312-3040”
Dial Inscription	Heart of Japan GIFU	“Dial marked "Heart of Japan GIFU”
Accession Number	2001-241	“2001-241”
Provenance	Promotional gift from Gifu Prefectural Government	“Promotional gift from Gifu Prefectural Government, Japan.”

Visible details

Round gold-tone case
Textured dark brown leather strap
Dial inscription reads 'Heart of Japan GIFU'
Includes Ricoh branded presentation box and instruction leaflet

Research qualifications

The exact date of manufacture is stated as a range of 1990-1996 in the provenance records but c.1996 in the description
The leather strap may be a replacement or original issue, but the source does not specify the material origin or factory source

Photograph identity and source facts were screened before import; rights clearance remains pending.

Consulted source

Quartz analogue wristwatch

Reviewed 2026-10-26 · Record 54d5dd075a

Terms in this record

Glossary explanations for terms named in this object’s record.