Rado - Purple Horse - No reserve price - 11794-1 - Men - 1970-1979

Available now on auction by Second Vintage This Rado Purple Horse is a charismatic example of reliable Swiss engineering from the 1970s, presenting a robust presence on the wrist with its desirable 37mm case size. The watch is defined by its heavily patinated dial, which has aged to create a unique "stardust" effect that many vintage enthusiasts find particularly appealing. Combined with the signature rotating anchor logo and the distinctive red date wheel, this timepiece offers a genuine vintage aesthetic that stands out from pristine modern examples. Brand: Rado Model: Purple Horse Reference Number: 11794-1 Serial Number: 35351642 Movement: Automatic, 25 Jewels Dial: Silver with heavy speckled patina and red date wheel Case Size: 37 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: c. 1970s Condition: Good vintage condition. The watch shows honest signs of age, particularly the uniform spotting on the dial and normal wear on the case, while running with excellent mechanical health. Dial and Hands The silver dial has developed a heavy, uniform speckled patina throughout, creating a unique texture often celebrated by collectors of authentic vintage pieces. The applied silver baton indices are crisp and feature black inlays that match the handset. At the 12 o'clock position, the famous Rado anchor logo is present on a red background. A magnified date window is positioned at 3 o'clock, displaying the date in a striking red font which provides a vivid contrast against the aged dial. Case and Crystal The 37mm stainless steel case offers a substantial feel that wears larger than many contemporaries of its era. The case styling features smooth, thick lugs and a polished bezel. The screw-down caseback is in very good condition, proudly displaying the deeply embossed Rado Seahorse medallion along with the "Water Sealed" text and clearly legible reference and serial numbers. The crown is signed with the Rado anchor logo. The acrylic crystal features a cyclops magnifier over the date and remains clear. Movement Powering the watch is a reliable Swiss automatic movement, signed Rado with 25 jewels and featuring a gold-plated rotor. The movement appears clean and well-maintained. Timegrapher testing shows the watch is running between -4 and -7 seconds per day with strong amplitude, which indicates a healthy movement offering reliable vintage performance. Strap The watch is fitted with a black leather strap featuring white contrast stitching and a stainless steel buckle. The strap is in excellent condition and complements the black accents on the dial markers and hands. Condition This timepiece is in good vintage condition. The case has been preserved well with visible but acceptable surface scratches consistent with age and use. The edges remain distinct. The dial shows significant, even aging and oxidation spots, which is the primary characteristic of this specific piece. The movement is mechanically sound and performing well within vintage tolerances. Dimensions The case measures 37mm in diameter excluding the crown. The lug width is standard, allowing for easy strap changes to suit personal preference. Remarks The Purple Horse is one of Rado's most enduring model lines, known for its robustness and water-resistant case designs. This specific example, with its "stardust" dial and red date wheel, is a conversation starter that embraces its history rather than hiding it. It is a perfect entry point for collectors looking for a Swiss automatic watch with genuine character and a substantial wrist presence. History Rado, founded in Lengnau, Switzerland, established itself as a pioneer in materials and case design. The "Horse" series (including Green, Purple, and Golden Horse) was introduced in the late 1950s and became a cornerstone of the brand's success throughout the 1960s and 70s. These models were marketed for their water resistance and durability, symbolizing the brand's commitment to producing "scratch-proof" and hardy watches long before high-tech ceramics became their signature. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-RPH-0004