My first Invicta was a solid gold 9743, which I ordered new from a certain retailer, & the plating was very poor. Bare metal was clearly visible on several links. It looked as if the gold was rubbed off or the plating just didn't stick to the metal - sort of looked like taking a can of spray paint & standing far away from what you're spraying - just a light coating of paint particles or none at all (in this case, gold particles). The bracelet appeared used, but I don't think that really was the case.
Anyway, I eventually got a replacement bracelet from Invicta for $42, although this was purchased as a "new" watch. It's about 1-1/2 years old now. Runs fine.
I have 3 other Invicta two-tones, with which I am very careful as the polished links will indeed scratch very easily. The cosmetics of these oyster-style bracelets are very nice.
So, I wouldn't hesitate to go with Invicta gold again I don't suppose, realizing I must be very careful not to bump the watch against anything.
The old blue bezel is now green.