Rado - Conway 73 - No reserve price - RAD-CXX-0003 - Men - 1970-1979

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This Rado Conway 73 is a quintessential example of the brand’s daring and imaginative approach to watchmaking during the 1970s. Characterized by its striking architectural case and an unconventional vertical day-date display, this timepiece captures the vibrant, avant-garde spirit of its era. With its mesmerizing textured dial and signature rotating anchor, it presents a fantastic opportunity for collectors seeking a distinct and mechanically robust vintage Swiss watch with undeniable wrist presence. Brand: Rado Model: Conway 73 Movement: Automatic Caliber 2798, 25 Jewels Dial: Vibrant blue concentric-textured dial with applied chunky indices and vertical day-date at 6 o'clock, exceptionally clean condition Case Size: 37 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1970s Condition: Excellent vintage condition, showcasing well-preserved factory finishes and a pristine dial Dial and Hands The dial of this Conway 73 is a visual triumph, featuring a vivid blue base adorned with a fine, concentric circular texture that catches the light beautifully, reminiscent of a vinyl record. It is appointed with tall, faceted applied indices featuring contrasting white central inserts, providing excellent legibility and depth. The layout is wonderfully unconventional, highlighted by a prominent metallic-framed vertical day-date aperture positioned at 6 o'clock, with the day displayed in striking red text. Further dimension is added by the applied "RADO" text at 9 o'clock and the brand's signature rotating anchor logo at 12 o'clock, set against a deep red background. The original baton hands mirror the indices with their luminous and white striping, accompanied by a slender sweeping seconds hand. A thorough visual inspection reveals the dial is in outstanding condition, remaining exceptionally clean with no visible spotting, moisture damage, fading, or print loss, preserving its factory-fresh vibrancy. Case and Crystal The 37mm stainless steel tonneau case exemplifies 1970s design language, balancing muscular proportions with elegant finishing. The upper surface of the case displays a distinct sunburst brushed finish that radiates outward from the dial, transitioning sharply into highly polished sloping flanks. The case retains strong, well-defined factory lines and sharp edges, exhibiting only honest, light handling marks and superficial scratches consistent with careful vintage wear. The prominent crown at 3 o'clock is correctly signed with the Rado anchor logo. The reverse side features a robust screw-down caseback, deeply embossed with the iconic Rado seahorses logo and "Water-Sealed" script, remaining crisp and highly legible. The watch is fitted with a domed crystal that perfectly complements the curvature of the case, presenting a clear and unobstructed view of the dial beneath. Movement Powering this timepiece is the Rado-signed automatic Caliber 2798, a 25-jewel movement based on a robust ETA architecture. The movement is beautifully finished with a rich gold plating across the bridges, base plate, and the heavy automatic rotor. Close inspection of the movement reveals clean surfaces, well-preserved screw heads, and clear caliber stampings beneath the balance wheel. Performing well within expected vintage tolerances; running strong and steady. The timegrapher indicates a deviation of -27 to -30 seconds per day. Strap The watch is paired with an original Rado stainless steel bracelet, featuring the highly desirable and incredibly comfortable NSA-style multi-link construction. The bracelet is secured by a spring-loaded folding clasp, prominently stamped with the Rado logo and name, completing the authentic vintage presentation. Condition This timepiece is preserved in excellent vintage condition. The case remains structurally sharp with attractive contrasting finishes and normal signs of light wear. The dial is the standout feature, remaining remarkably pristine and free of the degradation often found in watches of this period. The hands, indices, and applied logos are exceptionally clean, and the movement presents beautifully. Dimensions Case Size: 37 mm (excluding the crown) Remarks The Rado Conway 73 is a brilliant representation of 1970s horological flair. Its unique dial layout, mesmerizing texture, and integrated-style bracelet make it an incredibly fun and substantial watch on the wrist. Finding one with such a well-preserved dial and sharp case geometry makes this a highly compelling acquisition for the vintage enthusiast. History Founded in Lengnau, Switzerland, Rado initially operated as the Schlup & Co. watchmaking factory before launching its own brand in the 1950s. By the 1960s and 1970s, Rado had carved out a unique niche in the Swiss watch industry, becoming globally renowned for its pioneering use of scratch-resistant materials and its bold, futuristic designs. The Conway line, alongside models like the DiaStar and Manhattan, helped solidify Rado's reputation as a brand unafraid to push the boundaries of traditional watch aesthetics, offering timepieces that were as robust as they were visually striking. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-CXX-0003