Rado - Cornell - No reserve price - 11916 - Men - 1974

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This Rado Cornell represents a quintessential example of 1970s watchmaking, characterized by its distinctive cushion case and bold architectural dial elements. Known for their robust builds and unique design language, Rado timepieces from this era offer a compelling blend of durability and striking aesthetics. The Cornell model, with its solid stainless steel construction and refined dial layout, is a versatile and highly collectible vintage piece that captures the essence of mid-century Swiss horology. Brand: Rado Model: Cornell Reference Number: 11916 Serial Number: 35392465 Movement: Automatic, 25 Jewels Dial: Silver sunburst dial with applied faceted indices, showing clean and even preservation Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1974 Condition: Excellent vintage condition with attractive original finishes Dial and Hands The silver sunburst dial is remarkably well-preserved, catching the light beautifully and providing a dynamic backdrop for the applied dial furniture. It features prominent, chunky faceted hour markers with black inserts that give the watch a strong, three-dimensional presence. The signature Rado rotating anchor logo is positioned at twelve o'clock against a subtle crimson background, while the framed date aperture at three o'clock displays striking red numerals. The steel baton hands, complete with matching black central stripes, exhibit honest, age-consistent oxidation and patination that adds to the authentic vintage character of the piece. The dial remains exceptionally clean, free from significant moisture damage, staining, or heavy spotting, presenting a highly attractive face to the collector. Case and Crystal The 35mm stainless steel cushion case retains strong lines and a sharp profile, highlighting the distinctive transition between the horizontally brushed upper surfaces and the highly polished case flanks. The original factory finishing is still clearly visible, with only light, age-appropriate handling marks and superficial wear present. The signed Rado anchor crown operates correctly and complements the case design. The screw-down caseback is deeply engraved with the Rado seahorse emblem, reference number, and serial number, remaining crisp and highly legible. The crystal is well-preserved, offering a clear and unobstructed view of the dial beneath. Movement Inside the watch beats a robust Swiss-made automatic movement, featuring a gold-toned rotor signed by Rado and stamped with 25 jewels. The movement presents cleanly, with the balance wheel, escapement, and perlage finishing clearly visible. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. The timegrapher results indicate a performance of -11s to -20s/day. Strap The watch is fitted with a period-correct stainless steel bracelet featuring a distinctive horizontal ribbed pattern that perfectly complements the brushed finishing of the case. The folding clasp is proudly stamped with the Rado seahorse logo, confirming its authenticity and adding a cohesive touch to the overall package. The bracelet shows normal signs of wear consistent with the case and drapes comfortably on the wrist. Condition This Rado Cornell is presented in excellent vintage condition. The case retains its structural integrity and original finishing styles, while the dial remains exceptionally clean with only minor, attractive aging visible on the hands. The watch shows honest, careful wear without any significant damage, making it a well-preserved survivor from its era. Dimensions Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown). Wrist Size: Accommodates up to a 20 cm wrist. Remarks A handsome and reliable vintage Rado that perfectly encapsulates the bold design ethos of the 1970s. The combination of the silver sunburst dial, applied architectural indices, and the iconic rotating anchor logo makes this Cornell a standout piece for any enthusiast of mid-century Swiss design. History Rado has long been celebrated for its innovative approach to watch design and materials. During the 1960s and 1970s, the brand produced a wide array of distinctive models, often characterized by unconventional case shapes and robust automatic movements. The Cornell line is a testament to Rado's commitment to creating durable, stylish timepieces that stood apart from traditional watchmaking norms, cementing the brand's legacy as a pioneer of avant-garde horology. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-CXX-0005