Rado - Matterhorn - No reserve price - 11918 - Men - 1970-1979

Presented for auction by Second Vintage The Rado Matterhorn represents a fascinating era of bold Swiss watchmaking, combining robust case architecture with striking dial aesthetics. Named after the iconic Alpine peak, this timepiece embodies the adventurous spirit of 1970s design. With its distinctive crosshair dial and the signature anchor logo, the Matterhorn is a testament to Rado's innovative approach to both form and function during a highly creative period of horological history. Brand: Rado Model: Matterhorn Reference Number: 11918 Serial Number: 36671823 Movement: Rado 25-jewel automatic Dial: Silver vertically brushed crosshair dial, exceptionally clean condition Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless steel Production Year: 1970s Condition: Excellent vintage condition with sharp case lines and a pristine dial Dial and Hands The dial of this Matterhorn is a visual standout, featuring a striking silver surface with a pronounced vertical brushed texture that catches the light beautifully. A crisp black printed crosshair design divides the dial, adding a technical and precise aesthetic. The applied faceted rectangular indices feature black central stripes, harmonizing perfectly with the matching baton hands. At twelve o'clock, the signature applied Rado anchor logo sits proudly against a deep red background, while the date aperture at three o'clock displays striking red numerals framed by a polished steel window. The dial is exceptionally well-preserved, remaining remarkably clean and free of significant spotting, staining, or moisture damage, presenting a vibrant and highly attractive vintage face. The hands show only the faintest signs of honest surface aging under close macro inspection, maintaining their strong visual presence and structural integrity. Case and Crystal The 36mm stainless steel cushion case exemplifies the robust and dynamic styling of its era. The case architecture is defined by its sweeping curves and broad, polished upper surfaces that transition sharply to the case flanks. The factory lines remain well-defined, showcasing the original geometric intent of the design without evidence of heavy over-polishing. Honest signs of wear, including superficial hairline scratches and minor handling marks, are visible across the polished surfaces, consistent with careful vintage use. The signed Rado crown, featuring the anchor motif, is present and operates correctly at the three o'clock position. The watch is fitted with a domed acrylic crystal that provides a warm, period-correct distortion at the edges, displaying only light surface micro-scratches that do not detract from the clear view of the dial beneath. The screw-down caseback features the classic Rado seahorse medallions and Matterhorn engraving, remaining highly legible despite expected wear marks from regular use and opening tools. Movement Inside beats a robust Rado 25-jewel automatic movement, finished in a rich golden tone. The rotor is clearly signed with the Rado name, anchor logo, and jewel count, while the mainplate bears the Swiss hallmark and the caliber designation 900. The movement presents beautifully in the macro photography, showing clean surfaces and well-preserved components throughout the gear train and escapement. Performing well within expected vintage tolerances; running strong and steady. The timegrapher results show a deviation of +20 to +22 seconds per day. Strap The watch is paired with a period-correct black leather strap featuring a crocodile grain pattern and contrasting white stitching. The strap complements the monochromatic aesthetic of the dial and provides a comfortable, secure fit for daily wear, secured by a standard stainless steel pin buckle. Condition This Rado Matterhorn is presented in excellent vintage condition. The case retains its strong architectural presence with honest, age-appropriate wear, while the dial remains exceptionally clean and vibrant, standing out as a prime example of preservation. The mechanical components are running well, making this a highly wearable and attractive collector's piece that balances historical charm with reliable performance. Dimensions The stainless steel case measures 36 mm in diameter excluding the crown, offering a substantial yet comfortable presence on the wrist typical of 1970s cushion-case designs. Remarks The combination of the vertically brushed silver dial, the precise crosshair motif, and the striking red date wheel makes this Matterhorn a particularly compelling example of Rado's vintage catalog. It is a watch that offers significant visual interest and stands as a highly distinctive alternative to more common vintage steel sports watches. History Rado has long been celebrated for its avant-garde designs and pioneering use of robust materials. During the 1960s and 1970s, the brand released numerous models named after famous mountains and cities, each embodying a distinct character and target demographic. The Matterhorn line, with its sturdy cases and highly legible, often adventurous dial layouts, perfectly captured the era's zeitgeist, offering reliable sports-elegant watches for the modern traveler and explorer. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-MXX-0020