Ricoh Riquartz RL – Ref. 571006B – Early In-house Quartz – Japan c. 1974–1976

This Ricoh Riquartz is a piece of true watchmaking history: one of the early Japanese quartz watches from the pioneering era of the 1970s – combined with a distinctive design that is once again highly sought after today.

The reference 571006B belongs to the first generation of Ricoh quartz watches with the in-house Caliber 570. These movements were developed in the mid-1970s and represent the technological upheaval in which Japan redefined the global watch industry.

Historical Classification – Underestimated Quartz Innovation

While brands like Seiko are in the spotlight, Ricoh is often overlooked – unfairly so.

With the Riquartz series, Ricoh launched its own quartz movements, which were not purchased but developed in-house. It is precisely these early in-house calibers that are particularly interesting for collectors today.

The reference 571006B dates from around 1974–1976 and thus belongs to the early phase of industrially manufactured quartz watches – long before quartz became a mass-produced commodity.

JDM Character – Rare Outside Japan

These models were predominantly produced for the Japanese domestic market and are rarely found in Europe today.

Ricoh watches from this period appear significantly less frequently than comparable pieces from Seiko or Citizen – a clear advantage for collectors who are specifically looking for less obvious vintage pieces.

Design – Iconic 70s TV Case

The case follows the typical TV case form of the 1970s:

• compact, angular, and clearly structured
• integrated strap lugs for a seamless look
• classic date window at 3 o'clock

The dial shows an attractive color gradient with gold accents and applied indices – with a significantly changing effect depending on the incidence of light.

A design that is very much in vogue again today.

Condition – Honest Vintage

The watch is in good, worn condition:

• Case with age-related signs of wear
• Mineral crystal with visible scratches
• Dial with a beautiful, harmonious appearance
• Movement runs reliably, battery freshly replaced

The crystal can be replaced if necessary; currently, it underlines the authentic vintage character.

The watch is equipped with a high-quality aftermarket steel bracelet from the brand Baer:

• significantly higher quality than many original straps of the time
• very pleasant feel
• total weight (incl. watch): 99 g

The bracelet harmonizes perfectly with the case and makes the watch absolutely suitable for everyday use.

Classification for Collectors

This watch is particularly interesting for:

• Collectors of early Japanese quartz movements
• Lovers of 70s design (TV Case)
• Buyers who deliberately seek beyond mainstream brands
• Connoisseurs who appreciate Ricoh as an underrated brand

An authentic, distinctive vintage piece with increasing demand.

Technical Data

• Brand: Ricoh
• Model: Riquartz RL
• Reference: 571006B
• Movement: Ricoh Caliber 570 (quartz, in-house)
• Construction Period: approx. 1974–1976
• Case: Stainless steel
• Diameter: approx. 38 mm (without crown)
• Lug-to-Lug: approx. 42.5 mm
• Lug Width: 18 mm
• Weight: 99 g (incl. steel bracelet)
• Crystal: Mineral crystal (with scratches)
• Functions: Hour, minute, second, date
• Condition: good vintage condition with signs of wear
• Battery: freshly replaced

Conclusion

A rare opportunity to acquire an early Japanese quartz watch with an independent design and historical background – far from the usual brands, but with all the more character.

Warranty (used)
This is a used item. The statute of limitations for claims for defects (statutory warranty) is 12 months from delivery.

 

Note
As this is a used watch, no water resistance can be guaranteed. To protect the movement, the watch should not come into contact with water or moisture.