Rado Serbia 40572408 (1970-1979)

Now available at auction from Second Vintage This Rado Serbia is a distinctive and rare timepiece that perfectly captures the experimental spirit of 1970s watch design. With its unique textured dial and robust stainless steel construction, this model stands out as a collector's piece that offers both visual flair and historical charm. The specific "Serbia" model designation is uncommon, making this a fascinating find for enthusiasts of vintage Rado timepieces who appreciate the brand's legacy of unconventional aesthetics. Brand: Rado Model: Serbia Serial Number: 40572408 Movement: Automatic Dial: Textured patterned purple-brown Case Size: 37 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless steel Production Year: c. 1970s Condition: Good vintage condition with visible wear commensurate with age, featuring a stunningly preserved unique dial. Dial and Hands The highlight of this timepiece is undoubtedly its captivating dial which features a textured pattern resembling woven fabric or wood grain in varying shades of deep purple and brown. The surface interacts beautifully with light, creating a depth often missing in standard matte or sunburst finishes. It is adorned with applied silver baton hour markers and the iconic Rado rotating anchor logo at the 12 o'clock position, which sits against a red background. A framed date window is positioned at 3 o'clock. The silver stick hands are original and legible, maintaining a sharp contrast against the complex background. Case and Crystal The watch is housed in a substantial 37 mm stainless steel case with a cushion-style silhouette that is characteristic of the era. The case shows honest signs of vintage use, including surface scratches and marks throughout the polished surfaces and bezel, consistent with a watch that has been enjoyed over the decades. The crown is signed with the Rado anchor logo. The crystal exhibits visible surface wear and crazing typical of vintage acrylic, yet it remains clear enough to fully appreciate the unique dial texture beneath. Movement Powering the watch is a Rado-signed automatic movement with 25 jewels, featuring a gold-plated rotor. The movement presents well visually. On the timegrapher, the watch is currently running between -50 and -53 seconds per day. This indicates a healthy movement that is functioning, though it is running within broader vintage tolerances typical for an unserviced piece of this age. Strap The watch is fitted with a black leather strap featuring white contrast stitching. The strap is in good condition and complements the dark tones of the dial, securing with a stainless steel pin buckle. It provides a comfortable fit and enhances the sporty yet elegant character of the case design. Condition This timepiece is in good vintage condition. While the case and crystal show clear evidence of wear and aging, the structural integrity of the watch remains strong. The dial has been remarkably well preserved, retaining its unique color and texture without significant deterioration. The overall appearance is honest and authentic, presenting as a genuine vintage article with character. Dimensions With a case diameter of 37 mm excluding the crown, the watch offers a significant wrist presence that feels modern despite its vintage production date. The cushion shape aids in making the watch wear slightly larger than its dimensions suggest, suitable for a variety of wrist sizes. Remarks The Rado Serbia is a model that does not appear frequently at auction, particularly with such an intricate dial configuration. Rado has always been known for pushing the boundaries of materials and design, and this steel-era piece is a testament to their creativity before the high-tech ceramic era. It represents a wonderful opportunity to acquire a conversation piece that combines Swiss engineering with avant-garde 1970s style. History Rado was founded in 1917 as Schlup & Co. in Lengnau, Switzerland, and began selling watches under the Rado brand name in the 1950s. By the 1960s and 70s, the brand had established itself as a pioneer in design, distinct from other Swiss manufacturers. Models like the Serbia showcase the brand's willingness to experiment with textures and case shapes during the golden age of mechanical watchmaking. Today, vintage Rado watches are increasingly sought after for their durability and unique design language. / Second Vintage SKU: RADAK2GYU0000