Rado Bal Boa 74020664 (1970-1979)

Now available at auction from Second Vintage This Rado Bal Boa is a sought-after example of the brand's avant-garde 1970s styling, defined by its highly durable hardmetal construction and bold geometry. The strikingly preserved faceted case and vibrant gradient dial create a distinctive visual presence, offering collectors a compelling example of mid-century experimental watch design. Brand: Rado Model: Bal Boa Reference Number: 74020664 Movement: Automatic, Caliber 2797, 25 Jewels Dial: Gradient brown finish with applied indices Case Size: 35mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Tungsten Carbide / Stainless Steel Production Year: 1970s Condition: Excellent vintage condition. Timegrapher: 50+55s/day, running in operational condition. Dial and Hands The dial presents a vibrant gradient brown finish that remains exceptionally clean, free of significant spotting or moisture damage. The applied indices and the signature Rado anchor logo are well preserved, adding depth to the display. The gold-tone hands show honest aging, with visible oxidation and spotting present under macro inspection. The luminous plots on the hands appear intact but have aged naturally over time. Case and Crystal The highly polished faceted case is in excellent condition, showcasing strikingly preserved geometry and crisp edges. Consistent with its robust tungsten carbide and stainless steel construction, the case displays minimal visible scratches or wear. The bezel is integrated into the overall case architecture. The watch is fitted with a signed Rado anchor crown that remains in good condition with defined knurling. A distinctive faceted crystal complements the case shape perfectly and remains clear, free of major scratches or chips. Movement Powering this timepiece is the automatic Caliber 2797, clearly stamped on the bridge and engraved with Rado, 25 Jewels, and 206 markings. The movement is generally clean but displays some tarnish and dirt along the rotor edge. The timegrapher records 50+55s/day. Running in operational condition. Maintains the authentic mechanical character of the watch. Strap The watch is paired with a period correct stainless steel link bracelet that complements the vintage aesthetic. The bracelet shows moderate wear and some stretch from previous use, comfortably accommodating a wrist size of up to 18cm. Condition Excellent vintage condition. The dial is wonderfully preserved with a vibrant finish, while the hands display honest oxidation and aging. The tungsten carbide case is a highlight, retaining its sharp, highly polished faceted edges with minimal wear. The period correct steel bracelet shows expected stretch. Supported by the timegrapher reading of 50+55s/day, the movement is running in operational condition. Dimensions The case measures 35mm (excluding the crown). Remarks This Bal Boa stands out for its bold 1970s architecture and exceptionally well-preserved hardmetal case. The combination of the faceted crystal, scratch-resistant geometry, and vibrant gradient dial makes it a highly charismatic vintage timepiece. History During the 1970s, Rado established a strong reputation for utilizing unconventional, highly scratch-resistant materials like tungsten carbide to create watches that would retain their polish for decades. The Bal Boa line is a prime example of this philosophy, merging robust hardmetal cases with striking geometric designs and colorful gradient dials. These timepieces are celebrated by collectors for their unmistakable period styling and durable construction. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-BBX-0002