Sharp Opti-Glo Backlit Divers-Style Quartz
Divers-Style Fashion Watch / Field Watch · Sharp (owned by Advance Watch Co. during this period). Classified as a mass-market, budget-tier fashion brand primarily sold in department stores and drugstores.
Period: Modern Affordable (1990s-early 2000s). The design features a 'scalloped' bezel and a case-side pusher for backlighting, typical of budget quartz watches from this era.
Type
Divers-Style Fashion Watch / Field Watch
Brand
Sharp (owned by Advance Watch Co. during this period). Classified as a mass-market, budget-tier fashion brand primarily sold in department stores and drugstores.
Movement
Japanese Quartz (Japan Movt). Standard battery-operated movement with an added circuit for the electroluminescent 'Opti-Glo' backlight feature.
Dimensions
Case diameter: 38mm; Thickness: 11mm; Lug-to-lug: 45mm; Lug width: 20mm.
Description
This Sharp Opti-Glo is a robustly styled, entry-level quartz watch that mimics the aesthetics of professional diving watches. It prioritizes legibility with its stark white dial and full Arabic numerals. The 'Opti-Glo' feature serves as the brand's answer to Timex's Indiglo, providing easy time-telling in dark conditions via a battery-powered light.
Key Features
Scalloped bezel design; Opti-Glo backlight pusher at 2 o'clock; 'Japan Movt' designation; Base-metal case showing natural 'brassing' wear.
Dial Description
Matte white dial with full Arabic numerals in a serif font. Features a 'railroad' minute track on the outer flange. Sword-style hour and minute hands with a thin needle seconds hand. 'Opti-Glo' branding indicates the dial or backlight illuminates when the upper pusher is pressed.
Case Material
Base metal (likely plated zinc or brass) with a brushed/polished finish. The wear on the lugs and bezel reveals a warmer-toned base metal beneath the silver plating.
Crystal Type
Flat mineral glass. Shows significant surface scratches and 'flea bites' around the perimeter.
Bezel Details
Fixed (non-rotating) scalloped bezel made of plated base metal with embossed 0-60 numeric markings and an inverted triangle at 12 o'clock. Most of the original black paint for the numbers has worn away.
Crown & Pushers
Standard fluted push-pull crown at 3 o'clock for time setting. An additional 'pump' pusher at 2 o'clock is used to activate the dial's internal illumination.
Bracelet or Strap
Black textured genuine leather strap, likely an aftermarket replacement given the wear on the watch vs. the strap. Features a simple tang buckle.
Caseback Details
Presumed stainless steel snap-on caseback, as is standard for this tier of fashion watch, typically featuring the brand logo and 'Japan Movt' text.
Movement Type
Japanese Quartz (Japan Movt). Standard battery-operated movement with an added circuit for the electroluminescent 'Opti-Glo' backlight feature.
Water Resistance
Rated 'Water Resistant' (likely 30m / 3ATM). This signifies splash resistance only; it is not suitable for swimming or diving, especially given its age.
Origin & Provenance
Japanese-sourced movement as indicated by 'Japan Movt' on the dial; the case and final assembly were most likely completed in China.
Age Estimate
Late 1990s to early 2000s, based on the font styles and the popularity of electroluminescent technology (like Timex Indiglo) during that decade.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Everyman's tool watch'—an accessible piece of horology designed for utility and mass consumption rather than luxury or collecting.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Significant plating loss (pitting/brassing) on the case and bezel. The crystal has multiple visible scratches. The dial remains clean and legible. Structural integrity appears sound but heavily aged.
Value Estimate
$5.00 - $15.00. This is a functional object rather than a financial investment; value is primarily sentimental or utilitarian.
Care & Maintenance
Requires standard battery replacement every 2-3 years. Avoid water exposure as the aged gaskets likely no longer provide protection. Clean the case with a dry micro-fiber cloth to avoid further plating erosion.
Similar Watches
Timex Expedition (features Indiglo), Casio MTP series, Lorus LumiBrite models.
Interesting Facts
The Sharp brand in watchmaking is often overlooked but was a pioneer in the 'super-affordable' quartz market, often providing backlight technologies to compete directly with Casio and Timex at lower price points.