Rado - Mannheim - No reserve price - 932469 - Men - 1970-1979

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This Rado Mannheim perfectly captures the bold, architectural design language of 1970s Swiss watchmaking. Characterized by its striking cushion case and an incredibly dynamic vertically brushed dial, this piece exemplifies Rado's mid-century flair for combining robust engineering with captivating visual textures. Complete with the brand's signature rotating anchor and vivid blue dial accents, it offers a highly distinct and compelling presence on the wrist for the discerning vintage enthusiast. Brand: Rado Model: Mannheim Serial Number: 932469 Movement: Swiss automatic movement Dial: Vertically brushed silver dial with applied faceted indices and blue accents, presenting in remarkably clean condition Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless steel Production Year: 1970s Condition: Excellent vintage condition, exceptionally preserved with sharp case lines and a pristine dial Dial and Hands The dial is a visual standout, featuring a brilliant silver base with heavy vertical brushing that plays beautifully with the light. It is adorned with applied, faceted baton indices that feature distinct blue inserts, perfectly color-matched by the outer blue printed minute track. At the twelve o'clock position sits Rado's iconic rotating anchor logo set against a vibrant red background, situated just above the applied steel Rado name. The lower half of the dial balances the composition with an applied gold-tone letter M and the Mannheim model name executed in an elegant cursive script. A framed date aperture at three o'clock displays a crisp red numeral. The faceted baton hands feature black central stripes for excellent legibility. A thorough inspection reveals the dial is exceptionally clean, free of spotting, moisture damage, or discoloration, retaining crisp typography and brilliant factory finishing throughout. Case and Crystal The 36 mm stainless steel cushion case is a superb example of 1970s geometry. It features a prominent radial sunburst brushing on its upper surface that transitions sharply into highly polished case flanks. The original Rado signed crown, bearing the anchor emblem, sits flush against the right side. The screw-down caseback is deeply engraved with the Rado triple seahorse medallion, surrounding stars, the Water-Sealed designation, and the 932469 serial number. The watch is fitted with a domed acrylic crystal, correct to the period, which protects the dial clearly without significant blemishes. The case remains in excellent vintage condition, showing honest, light surface wear consistent with careful use over the decades, while retaining strong, unpolished architecture and well-defined factory chamfers. Movement Powering this timepiece is a gilt-finished Swiss automatic movement. The rotor is proudly stamped with the Rado brand name, and the plates are marked with 25 jewels and Swiss production text. The movement presents cleanly, with bright brass tones and well-preserved screw heads visible under inspection. Running in vintage operational condition. Maintains the authentic mechanical character of the era. Timegrapher testing indicates a performance of +40 to +46 s/d. Strap The watch is fitted with an original stainless steel mesh bracelet that complements the vintage aesthetic perfectly. The folding clasp is distinctly signed with the Rado brand name and operates securely. Condition This timepiece grades in excellent vintage condition. The dial is a remarkable survivor, maintaining its dynamic vertical brushing and clean printing without notable flaws. The case retains its factory brushing and sharp transitions between the top and polished flanks. The caseback medallion remains deep and well-defined. Normal, light micro-scratches are present on the polished surfaces and bracelet clasp, entirely commensurate with its age and careful ownership. Dimensions The case measures 36 mm in diameter excluding the crown. The included mesh bracelet will comfortably accommodate a wrist size of up to 19 cm. Remarks The Rado Mannheim is a brilliant representation of mid-century design audacity, blending robust case architecture with intricate dial details. The combination of the vertical brushing, striking blue accents, and the ever-charming rotating anchor makes this a highly compelling acquisition for enthusiasts of distinctive vintage Swiss watches. It is a piece that offers immense character and excellent wrist presence. History Founded in 1917 as the Schlup and Co. watchmaking factory and later transitioning to the Rado name in the 1950s, the brand quickly established a reputation for avant-garde designs and pioneering aesthetics. During the 1960s and 1970s, Rado released a plethora of distinct models, often named after global cities or themes, each carrying the signature rotating anchor to indicate automatic winding. The Mannheim stands as a testament to this highly creative era in Rado's history, offering a bold yet refined aesthetic that remains highly wearable and collectible today. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-RMT-0001