Rado - Mannheim - No reserve price - 946549 - Men - 1970-1979

Presented for auction by Second Vintage Discover the bold aesthetic of 1970s watchmaking with this striking Rado Mannheim. Featuring a robust cushion case and a captivating blue gradient dial, this timepiece embodies the adventurous design language that defined the era. With its signature rotating anchor logo and reliable automatic movement, it represents a fantastic opportunity for collectors seeking a character-rich vintage watch with genuine presence. Brand: Rado Model: Mannheim Reference Number: 946549 Serial Number: Movement: Automatic, Caliber 2797, 25 Jewels Dial: Blue gradient sunburst dial with applied indices, showing visible spotting around the center pinion Case Size: 37 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1970s Condition: Good vintage condition with honest signs of wear and visible dial aging Dial and Hands The watch features a captivating blue gradient dial with a dynamic sunburst finish that shifts beautifully under light. It is adorned with applied, faceted hour markers featuring white central channels, complemented by the signature rotating Rado anchor logo at twelve o'clock and a distinct yellow "M" above the Mannheim script. A framed date aperture at three o'clock displays the date in striking red typography. Upon close inspection, the dial exhibits noticeable spotting, moisture staining, and discoloration concentrated around the central hands pinion. The faceted baton hands show visible oxidation, patina, and aging on their metallic surfaces, entirely consistent with the overall vintage character of the dial. Case and Crystal The 37mm stainless steel cushion-shaped case features a classic 1970s profile, blending a vertically brushed upper surface with polished case flanks. The case displays honest signs of vintage wear, including surface scratches, scuffs, and minor handling marks throughout, though the transition between the brushed and polished finishes remains appreciable. The acrylic crystal shows surface scratches and light wear consistent with regular use. The screw-down stainless steel caseback is deeply engraved with the iconic Rado "Water-Sealed" seahorse medallion and clearly displays the reference number 946549, alongside typical wear marks. Movement Powering this timepiece is the Rado-signed automatic caliber 2797, an ETA-based movement featuring 25 jewels. The movement is presented with a rich gold-tone finish and features the caliber designation 2797 clearly stamped near the balance wheel. The rotor is handsomely engraved with the Rado signature. Running in vintage operational condition. Maintains the authentic mechanical character of the era. The timegrapher results indicate a performance of +45 to +52 seconds per day. Strap The watch is fitted with an original vintage Rado stainless steel mesh bracelet, which complements the cushion case perfectly. The fold-over clasp is prominently stamped with the Rado name and anchor logo on the exterior, and marked "Stainless Steel" on the inner folding blade. The bracelet shows typical light wear and accommodates a wrist size of up to 19cm. Condition This Rado Mannheim is presented in good vintage condition. The stainless steel case and original mesh bracelet exhibit normal, honest wear, including surface scratches and minor scuffs indicative of its age and use. The dial displays clear signs of aging, specifically spotting and moisture marks near the center, while the hands show matching oxidation. The movement remains in functional operational condition. Dimensions Case Size: 37 mm (excluding the crown) Wrist Size: 19 cm Remarks This Rado Mannheim is a wonderful example of bold 1970s design, offering a substantial wrist presence and a highly attractive dial color. The combination of the cushion case, the original mesh bracelet, and the distinct dial furniture make it a standout piece for any enthusiast of mid-century vintage watches. History Rado has long been celebrated for its avant-garde approach to watch design and its pioneering use of unconventional case shapes and materials. During the 1960s and 1970s, the brand produced some of its most iconic and recognizable models, characterized by robust construction, distinctive dials, and the ever-present kinetic anchor logo. The Mannheim model perfectly captures the essence of this innovative period, offering collectors a robust and stylish timepiece that reflects the daring aesthetic choices of its time. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-RMX-0046