Rado - Mannheim - Ohne mindestpreis - 43001955 - Herren - 1970-1979

Presented for auction by Second Vintage The Rado Mannheim is a captivating representation of 1970s Swiss horological design, blending robust architectural case lines with highly refined dial aesthetics. During an era when watchmakers were experimenting with bold shapes and distinct identities, Rado distinguished itself through striking visual signatures and reliable mechanics. This particular Mannheim is a superb example of that creative period, offering collectors a beautifully preserved dial, the brand's iconic moving anchor logo, and a versatile cushion case that wears with substantial presence on the wrist. Brand: Rado Model: Mannheim Reference Number: 43001955 Movement: Automatic, Caliber ETA 2824, 25 Jewels Dial: Silver sunburst with applied faceted indices, red date display, and exceptionally clean surface preservation Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1970s Condition: Excellent vintage condition with an outstanding dial and sharp case lines Dial and Hands The dial is a primary value driver of this timepiece, presenting in stunning vintage condition with a brilliant silver sunburst finish. It features applied, faceted baton indices with black central channels that provide excellent legibility and visual depth. At 12 o'clock sits the signature Rado rotating anchor logo set against a red background, positioned above the applied typography. The lower half of the dial displays the elegant "M Mannheim" script printed in black, perfectly balanced by the striking red numerals of the date aperture at 3 o'clock. A crisp outer minute track frames the dial. The surface is exceptionally clean, showing no visible moisture damage, spotting, or print loss, representing a remarkable level of preservation. The baton hands mirror the design of the indices with black central striping and remain in excellent, well-preserved condition. Case and Crystal The 36mm stainless steel cushion-shaped case features a broad, high-polish upper bezel and polished case flanks. The lug profile and case lines retain strong definition and sharp transitions, indicative of honest vintage wear. There are light, superficial handling marks and micro-scratches consistent with careful use over the decades, but no deep gouges or signs of heavy over-polishing. The watch is fitted with a Rado-signed crown bearing the anchor motif. The screw-down stainless steel caseback prominently displays the iconic Rado "Water-Sealed" medallion with its three seahorses, which remains crisp and clearly legible. The domed acrylic crystal is well-preserved, offering an unobstructed and clear view of the immaculate dial beneath. Movement Inside beats a Rado-signed 25-jewel automatic movement, based on the highly reliable ETA caliber 2824, as clearly stamped beneath the balance wheel in the close-up images. The rotor features the classic Rado decoration and branding. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. The timegrapher indicates a deviation of -4 to -8 seconds per day with strong amplitude. Strap The watch is fitted with a period-appropriate black textured leather strap featuring contrasting white stitching. The strap complements the monochrome aesthetic of the dial and case, presenting in excellent, ready-to-wear condition. Condition This timepiece is in excellent vintage condition. The dial is exceptionally well-preserved, standing out as a flawless or nearly flawless focal point of the watch. The stainless steel case shows normal, honest signs of wear with light surface scratches but retains its fundamental geometry, sharp edges, and original charm. The movement is remarkably clean and running with impressive precision. Dimensions Case width: 36 mm (excluding the crown). Remarks The Rado Mannheim is a fantastic example of the brand's distinctive mid-century design language, combining a substantial cushion case with intricate, highly polished dial details. The vibrant red date wheel and the signature rotating anchor logo add a touch of playful character to this sophisticated and highly collectible vintage timepiece. History Originally founded as Schlup & Co. in 1917, Rado transformed into a globally recognized brand known for its avant-garde designs and pioneering use of durable materials. During the 1960s and 1970s, Rado released numerous distinctive models with unique case shapes and evocative names, often utilizing their signature rotating anchor logo on the dial. The Mannheim represents this golden era of horological creativity, offering collectors a bold yet incredibly wearable piece of mid-century Swiss watchmaking history that remains as stylish today as it was upon its release. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-MXX-0013