Rado - Simplon - No reserve price - 773644 A - Men - 1970-1979

Offered in this auction by Second Vintage This Rado Simplon is a remarkable example of sophisticated 1970s dress watch design, characterized by its sleek profile and minimalist aesthetic. The timepiece features a captivating anthracite grey sunburst dial that plays beautifully with the light, offering a depth of color that ranges from charcoal to soft silver. Paired with its original stainless steel mesh bracelet and housed in a distinctive C-shaped case, this watch embodies the era's transition into modernist elegance while retaining a timeless appeal suitable for formal or casual wear. Brand: Rado Model: Simplon Reference Number: 773644 A Movement: Manual Winding Dial: Anthracite grey sunburst with white Roman numerals Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: c. 1970s Condition: Well-preserved vintage condition with a clean dial and case, showing light signs of careful use, accompanied by a timegrapher reading of -24s/day which indicates a healthy movement. Dial and Hands The dial is the standout feature of this timepiece, presenting an intact anthracite grey surface with a rich sunburst finish. It is adorned with crisp white printed Roman numerals that provide excellent contrast and legibility. The slender white baton hands add to the minimalist elegance, while the signature rotating Rado anchor logo at 12 o'clock and the "Simplon" script at 6 o'clock remain sharp and distinct. The dial shows no significant signs of aging, spotting, or oxidation. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case features a cushion or C-shape design that was popular in the 1970s, offering a comfortable fit and a substantial wrist presence despite the classic dimensions. The surfaces retain much of their original finishing with sharp edges and only minor handling marks visible upon close inspection. The signed crown features the Rado anchor logo. The caseback is engraved with the iconic Rado seahorse logo and reference numbers, all of which are crisp and deep. The acrylic crystal is clear and free from distracting scratches or cracks. Movement Powering the watch is a reliable Swiss-made manual winding movement, signed Rado with 17 jewels. The gold-plated bridges appear clean and free from corrosion, indicating good mechanical preservation. The watch is running within vintage tolerances, with a timegrapher measurement of -24 seconds per day, suggesting reliable vintage performance. Strap The watch is fitted with a stainless steel mesh bracelet that perfectly complements the case design. It features a signed Rado clasp with the anchor logo. The bracelet is adjustable and supple, offering a comfortable fit for a wrist size of approximately 20 cm. The mesh structure is intact with no fraying or damage. Condition This timepiece is in well-preserved vintage condition. The dial is clean and retains its original finish. The case shows light signs of wear, consistent with age and careful use. The movement is clean and functional. Overall, the watch presents a strong and attractive appearance. Dimensions With a case diameter of 35 mm, the watch sits elegantly on the wrist. The lug-less design of the case allows it to wear slightly larger than its dimensions suggest, providing a modern presence while maintaining classic proportions. Remarks The Rado Simplon line was designed to offer a slimmer, more refined alternative to the robust sporting models of the era. This specific example, with its grey Roman dial and matching mesh bracelet, is a highly cohesive piece of design. It represents a fantastic opportunity to acquire a distinctive dress watch that stands apart from standard silver or black dial options. History Rado has long been a pioneer in materials and design, establishing itself as a distinct voice in the Swiss watch industry during the 20th century. While famous for their scratch-proof tungsten carbide cases introduced in the 1960s, Rado also excelled in producing elegant dress watches like the Simplon. This model showcases the brand's ability to execute traditional Swiss watchmaking with a unique stylistic flair that defined the 1970s. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-RSA-0002