Rado - Golden Horse - No reserve price - 11674/1 - Men - 1960

Offered in this auction by Second Vintage This is a quintessential example of the Rado Golden Horse, the model that launched the brand into global prominence in 1957. Featuring a high-grade 30-jewel automatic movement and the iconic rotating anchor logo, this timepiece represents the golden era of mid-century Swiss design. With its distinctive seahorse caseback medallion and classic proportions, this watch offers a blend of historical significance and reliable vintage performance, making it a compelling choice for collectors of significant Swiss watches. Brand: Rado Model: Golden Horse Reference Number: 11674/1 Movement: Automatic, 30 Jewels Dial: Silver sunburst with applied gold indices and patina Case Size: 34 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Gold Plated / Stainless Steel Production Year: 1960 Condition: Good vintage condition with visible aging on the dial and normal wear on the case, running with excellent amplitude and accuracy. Dial and Hands The silver sunburst dial features an honest and uniform patina, displaying visible spotting and aging consistent with its vintage nature. It is adorned with faceted gold-tone hour markers and the signature rotating Rado anchor on a red background at the 12 o'clock position. The iconic applied double seahorse logo sits proudly above the 6 o'clock mark. A date window with red numerals is positioned at 3 o'clock, magnified by the crystal's cyclops. The gold-tone dauphine hands are sharp and legible, complementing the warm tones of the indices. Case and Crystal The 34mm case is finished in gold plating, showing soft lines and moderate surface wear typical of a watch from this era. The lugs retain their shape well, though signs of use are present. The crown is signed with the Rado anchor symbol. The stainless steel caseback is a highlight, featuring the elaborate and deeply embossed "Water Sealed" seahorse medallion, along with clear patent engravings. The acrylic crystal is in presentable condition with a date magnifier. Movement Powering the watch is a high-grade, copper-colored 30-jewel automatic movement, signed by Rado. The movement is clean and aesthetically pleasing. Based on timegrapher testing, the watch is running exceptionally well for its age, showing +5 to +10 seconds per day with strong amplitude, which indicates a healthy movement offering reliable vintage performance. Strap The watch is fitted with a brown leather strap featuring an alligator grain pattern and contrasting stitching. It is secured by a gold-tone pin buckle that complements the case finish. The leather is supple and ready for immediate wear. Condition This timepiece is in Good vintage condition. The dial shows evident patina and oxidation spots which certify its age and originality. The gold-plated case exhibits surface scratches and handling marks but retains a strong vintage character. The movement is mechanically sound and performing well within vintage tolerances. Dimensions With a case diameter of 34mm excluding the crown, the watch sits classically on the wrist. The lug-to-lug length ensures a comfortable fit for a variety of wrist sizes, embodying the traditional dress watch proportions of the 1960s. Remarks The Golden Horse was Rado's first collection released under its own brand name, making this specific 30-jewel iteration a significant piece of company history. The combination of the rotating anchor, the detailed caseback, and the red date wheel makes this a charming and conversation-starting vintage piece. History Introduced in 1957, the Golden Horse collection marked a turning point for Rado, transitioning them from a movement supplier to a recognized watchmaker. The use of the seahorse motif symbolized water resistance, a key selling point at the time. This model helped establish Rado's reputation for durability and unique design language in the Asian and global markets during the mid-20th century. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-RJX-0004