Rado - Manhattan - No reserve price - Men - 1970-1979

Presented for auction by Second Vintage The Rado Manhattan stands as a striking example of mid-century architectural design in watchmaking. Introduced in the 1960s, the Manhattan series was celebrated for its bold, oversized rectangular cases that defied traditional round watch conventions. This particular model captures the essence of that era with its sharp lines, distinctive dial texture, and the iconic rotating anchor logo. It is a compelling piece for collectors who appreciate avant-garde vintage aesthetics combined with robust Swiss engineering. Brand: Rado Model: Manhattan Dial: Silver-tone linen texture, applied faceted indices, showing minor signs of aging and scattered spotting Case Size: 34 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1970s Condition: Good vintage condition, well-defined case, attractive dial with honest patina Dial and Hands The dial of this Rado Manhattan features a captivating silver-tone linen texture, characterized by fine vertical and horizontal brushing that creates a fabric-like appearance. It is adorned with applied, faceted block indices that provide excellent depth and light play. At nine o'clock, the signature Rado rotating anchor logo is prominently displayed on a purple background. The dial shows honest signs of age, with some scattered spotting and minor discoloration visible under close inspection, particularly near the edges and around the indices. The broad, blocky hands feature luminous inserts that have aged to a warm tone, and the central sweeping seconds hand completes the handset. A framed day-date window is positioned at three o'clock, displaying the day in red and the date in black. Case and Crystal The bold, rectangular stainless steel case measures 34 mm across and features a stepped, multi-tiered bezel design that emphasizes its architectural inspiration. The case retains strong lines and sharp angles, with a brushed finish on the top surfaces that transitions to polished flanks. The distinct Rado-signed crown is nestled into the side of the case. The watch is fitted with a tall, faceted acrylic crystal that enhances the vintage character and provides a clear view of the dial, though it exhibits light surface wear consistent with age. The polished caseback is deeply engraved with the Rado twin-seahorse logo and "Water-Sealed" text, remaining crisp and legible. Movement This Rado Manhattan is powered by an automatic mechanical movement. While the specific caliber is not visible, the movement is functioning. The timegrapher results reflect current performance, running at 42s+45s/day. Running in vintage operational condition. Maintains the authentic mechanical character of the era. Strap The watch is presented on a period-correct black leather strap with white contrasting side stitching. The strap offers a supple feel and complements the sharp, monochromatic aesthetic of the watch head. It is secured with a standard stainless steel pin buckle. Condition This timepiece is in good vintage condition. The stainless steel case shows normal signs of wear, including light scratches and handling marks, but retains its structural integrity and sharp architectural lines. The linen-textured dial exhibits age-consistent spotting and patina, which adds to its vintage charm without overwhelming the design. The crystal shows minor wear, and the hands display natural aging. Overall, the watch presents beautifully on the wrist, offering a strong and distinctive vintage presence. Dimensions Case Size: 34 mm (excluding the crown) Remarks The Rado Manhattan is a testament to the bold design language of the 1960s and 70s. Its substantial rectangular case and textured dial make it a standout piece in any vintage collection. This example, with its honest patina and striking geometry, is ready to be enjoyed by a collector who values unique and historically significant timepiece designs. History Founded in 1917 in Lengnau, Switzerland, Rado initially operated as a movement manufacturer before launching its own line of watches in the 1950s. The brand quickly became known for its innovative use of materials and distinctive designs. The Manhattan model, introduced in the mid-1960s, was a departure from conventional watch shapes, inspired by the towering skyscrapers of New York City. Its robust, water-resistant rectangular case and bold dial layouts made it a popular choice for those seeking a modern, forward-looking timepiece. Today, the Rado Manhattan remains a highly recognizable and collectible model, embodying the creative spirit of mid-century Swiss watchmaking. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-MXX-0001