Now available at auction from Second Vintage
A classic example of Rado's bold 1970s design language, this Marco Polo features a distinctive stainless steel cushion case and a striking gold-tone brushed dial. Highlighted by faceted applied indices and the signature rotating Rado anchor logo at 9 o'clock, this timepiece offers an attractive and well-preserved visual character supported by strong mechanical performance.
Brand: Rado
Model: Marco Polo
Reference Number: 11836/1
Serial Number: G.35361929
Movement: 25-jewel automatic, caliber AS 1859
Dial: Gold-tone vertically brushed with faceted indices and rotating anchor logo
Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown)
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Production Year: 1970s
Condition: Good vintage condition. Timegrapher: +13+15s/day, performing remarkably well.
Dial and Hands
The dial presents an attractive and well-preserved gold-tone vertically brushed finish. It is detailed with applied faceted indices and a striking red date display at the 3 o'clock position. At 9 o'clock, the signature rotating Rado anchor logo adds dynamic visual interest. Under macro inspection, minor spotting and dust particles are visible. The time is indicated by black baton hour and minute hands, alongside a sweeping seconds hand. The hour and minute hands exhibit noticeable paint degradation, with significant chipping and loss of the black coating.
Case and Crystal
The stainless steel cushion case displays honest vintage wear, featuring an integrated design without a distinct bezel. Its polished finish shows moderate scratches and scuffs throughout, and the edges exhibit some softening consistent with age and possible past polishing. The side profile is completed by a signed crown bearing the Rado anchor logo, which shows light wear. A domed acrylic crystal protects the dial, displaying light surface scratches visible at certain angles.
Movement
Powering this Marco Polo is a gold-tone 25-jewel automatic movement, identified by engravings as caliber AS 1859. The mechanism presents a clean overall appearance, with minor surface marks noted on the rotor. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece, the timegrapher records a strong result of +13+15s/day.
Strap
The watch is fitted with a complementary black leather strap featuring orange contrast stitching. The strap presents well and pairs nicely with the cushion case geometry.
Condition
Good vintage condition. The stainless steel case displays honest wear, including moderate scuffs, scratches, and softened edges from previous use and possible polishing. The gold-tone dial remains highly attractive, with only minor spotting visible under close inspection, though the black baton hands show significant chipping and paint loss. The domed acrylic crystal exhibits light surface scratches. Supported by the recorded timegrapher data, the automatic movement is performing very strongly.
Dimensions
The case measures 36 mm in diameter (excluding the crown).
Remarks
This Marco Polo delivers bold 1970s styling through its distinct cushion case and striking brushed dial. The dynamic rotating anchor logo and strong mechanical performance make it a compelling choice for collectors of mid-century design.
History
Founded in 1917 in Lengnau, Switzerland, Rado established a reputation for innovative design and distinct visual identity. During the 1970s, the brand fully embraced the era's bold aesthetic, producing memorable timepieces characterized by unusual case shapes, vibrant dials, and the signature rotating anchor logo. The Marco Polo model reflects this creative period, utilizing the dependable AS 1859 automatic movement housed within a robust cushion case. It remains a classic representation of Rado's mid-century design language.
Payment and Shipping
Payment must be completed within 1–3 days after purchase.
Your watch will be professionally and securely packaged, then shipped with tracking and insurance for your peace of mind.
We use fast express shipping, with typical delivery within 1–4 business days, depending on the destination.
Please note that vintage watches may show minor signs of wear, aging, or imperfections, which are considered normal for watches of this age.
We kindly ask you to review all photos carefully before bidding. We photograph each watch from multiple angles to provide the most accurate representation possible, and the photos form an important part of the description.
The timegrapher assessment if provided is seen as an indication of the movement’s condition under fully wound testing conditions. As with all vintage watches, results may vary in daily use.
If you have any concerns regarding functionality or defects after delivery, please contact us within 3 days of receiving the watch so we can assist you.
As with all used watches, water resistance is not guaranteed.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact us after the auction ends.
/ Second Vintage
SKU: RAD-MPG-0001
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Rado - Marco Polo - No reserve price - 11836/1 - Men - 1970-1979
Rado
Current Bid
€152.00
Time Left
17h 47m 42s
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