Rado - Balboa Cologny - No reserve price - K682072 - Men - 1970-1979

Presented for auction by Second Vintage Rado's innovative approach to materials and design in the 1970s is perfectly encapsulated in the Balboa series. Known for their scratch-resistant hard metal cases and striking faceted crystals, these timepieces offer a distinctive aesthetic that remains highly compelling today. This particular Balboa Cologny features a captivating vertically brushed blue dial, perfectly complementing the dramatic geometry of its faceted case construction. Brand: Rado Model: Balboa Cologny Reference Number: K682072 Movement: Automatic, ETA Caliber 2824, 25 Jewels Dial: Vertically brushed blue dial with applied faceted indices, showing visible aging on hardware Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Hard metal bezel with stainless steel caseback Production Year: 1970s Condition: Good vintage condition with an exceptionally preserved hard metal bezel and honest wear on the caseback Dial and Hands The striking blue dial features a pronounced vertical brushed texture that plays beautifully with the light. It is adorned with prominent applied faceted indices and the signature rotating Rado anchor logo against a red background at the 12 o'clock position. The dial surface itself remains notably clean and vibrant without significant spotting or damage. The faceted baton hands and the metallic indices display visible oxidation, pitting, and surface aging under close loupe inspection, consistent with the watch's vintage nature. The printed typography, including the stylized "BALBOA Cologny" script, remains crisp and fully intact. A framed date window sits clearly at the 3 o'clock position. Case and Crystal The 36mm case features Rado's signature scratch-resistant hard metal bezel, which retains its high-polish, mirror-like finish and sharp geometric facets with minimal signs of wear. The distinctive heavily faceted crystal sits proud of the case, enhancing the three-dimensional visual effect of the dial. The stainless steel screw-down caseback exhibits moderate surface scratching and wear typical of normal use over the decades, with the reference number K682072 clearly legible. The original Rado-signed crown is present, showing some wear to the plating around its base where it meets the case. Movement Powering this timepiece is a Swiss-made automatic ETA Caliber 2824, featuring a Rado-signed rotor with 25 jewels and a distinctive textured finish. The movement plates and rotor exhibit visible spotting and surface patina, reflecting its age. Running in vintage operational condition. Maintains the authentic mechanical character of the era. The timegrapher indicates a current performance of +40 to +42 seconds per day. Strap The watch is fitted with a deep blue leather strap featuring matching blue contrast stitching, complementing the dial color perfectly. The strap is in excellent condition, showing minimal signs of wear, and is secured with a standard stainless steel pin buckle. Condition This Rado Balboa Cologny is presented in good vintage condition. The hard metal bezel is exceptionally well-preserved, showcasing the durability of Rado's material choices. The dial surface is clean and attractive, though the hands and indices show noticeable aging and oxidation. The stainless steel caseback displays honest wear and scratching. The movement is operational and exhibits visual patina across the plates and rotor. Dimensions Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Remarks The Rado Balboa series stands as a testament to the brand's pioneering spirit in the realm of unconventional case materials and avant-garde designs. This Cologny variant, with its mesmerizing blue dial and faceted crystal, offers a bold and unmistakable vintage presence on the wrist. History Rado revolutionized the watch industry in the 1960s and 1970s by introducing scratch-resistant materials, most notably with the DiaStar and subsequent Balboa lines. By utilizing hard metal alloys and heavily faceted crystals, Rado created watches that could withstand the rigors of daily wear while maintaining a permanent, mirror-like shine. The Balboa series embraced the bold, space-age design language of the era, resulting in highly distinctive timepieces that have garnered a dedicated following among vintage collectors who appreciate their unique aesthetic and robust construction. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-BBK-0001