Rado Green Horse 11832 (1970-1979)

Now available at auction from Second Vintage This Rado Green Horse is a compelling example of the brand's mid-century dominance in robust, water-resistant design. With its distinctive "double seahorse" branding and the charming rotating anchor logo, this timepiece offers a blend of playful mechanics and serious Swiss engineering. It represents a fantastic entry point for collectors seeking a watch with genuine character and a strong visual presence on the wrist. Brand: Rado Model: Green Horse Reference Number: 11832 Serial Number: 16332122 Movement: Automatic, 25 Jewels Dial: Silver sunburst with applied indices and rotating anchor logo Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: c. 1970s Condition: Good vintage condition Dial and Hands The silver dial features a subtle sunburst finish that plays beautifully with the light. It is adorned with prominent, faceted block indices that add depth and texture to the face. The signature Rado anchor logo at 12 o'clock sits on a red background and rotates freely, a beloved quirk of the brand's automatic models. Above the 6 o'clock position, the green twin seahorse logo is distinct and well-preserved. A date window is positioned at 3 o'clock, displaying red numerals for high visibility. The baton-style hands feature luminous inserts that have aged to a dark, characterful tone. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case measures 36mm and features a tonneau-influenced shape with thick, sturdy lugs. The case shows surface scratches and signs of wear consistent with an honest vintage life, retaining its original geometry without signs of over-polishing. The crown is signed with the Rado anchor. The screw-down caseback is a highlight, featuring deeply embossed seahorses and the specific designation "New Green Horse" along with the "Water Sealed" branding, emphasizing the model's history of durability. The acrylic crystal shows minor handling marks but remains clear. Movement Powering the watch is a gold-plated Rado automatic movement with 25 jewels. The rotor is signed and the mechanism appears clean. Testing on a timegrapher reveals a daily rate of approximately 43 seconds per day, indicating the movement is running and functional, though a service may be beneficial for optimal precision in the long term. Strap The watch is fitted with a distinctive dark leather strap featuring a textured scale pattern and iridescent hues, complemented by white stitching. This unique choice underscores the vintage character of the watch and pairs well with the "Green Horse" motif. Condition This timepiece is in good vintage condition. While the steel case shows visible surface wear and scratches typical of its age, the dial remains remarkably clean and attractive. The graphics are crisp, and the applied markers are bright. It presents as an honest, well-loved example that retains all the charm of its original design. Dimensions The case measures 36mm in diameter excluding the crown, offering a classic fit that sits comfortably on a variety of wrist sizes. Remarks This specific reference 11832 is interesting for the "New Green Horse" engraving on the caseback, marking a specific evolution in the model line. The red date numerals provide a subtle pop of color against the monochromatic silver dial, enhancing readability and style. History Introduced in 1957, the Green Horse collection was a pivotal line for Rado, marking one of their first major successes in producing water-resistant automatic watches. It helped establish the brand's reputation for using durable materials and innovative engineering, paving the way for the scratch-proof technologies Rado would later become famous for. The Green Horse remains a cult favorite among vintage enthusiasts for its robust build and the whimsical inclusion of the seahorse logo. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD1PMDRS1000