Presented for auction by Second Vintage
This distinctive 1970s Rado Matterhorn presents a sought-after configuration for vintage enthusiasts, defined by its striking silver dial with vertical line texturing and a classic cushion case geometry. The combination of its attractive textured dial and vibrant red date display makes it a compelling collector favourite.
Brand: Rado
Model: Matterhorn
Reference Number: 70017668
Movement: Automatic, 25 jewels
Dial: Silver sunburst with vertical line texturing and red date display
Case Size: 37 mm (excluding the crown)
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Production Year: 1970s
Condition: Good vintage condition. Timegrapher: +50+53s/day, running in operational condition.
Dial and Hands
The silver sunburst dial is defined by its highly attractive vertical line texturing. Applied faceted indices feature dark inserts that perfectly match the central stick hands, creating a highly legible layout. The printed text remains crisp and intact, beautifully complementing the striking red date display at 3 o'clock. Notably, the applied Rado anchor logo at 12 o'clock shows significant degradation, with most of the red background missing and visible wear to the anchor itself. The original hands, including the simple sweep second hand, exhibit light surface oxidation and age-appropriate wear visible under magnification.
Case and Crystal
The stainless steel cushion-shaped case features brushed upper surfaces contrasting with polished flanks, preserving its honest vintage character and original geometry. The edges remain reasonably defined, while the case exhibits moderate surface scratches and scuffs consistent with age and use. The polished smooth bezel is integrated into the case design and shows light surface scratches matching the rest of the case. The caseback displays clear engravings alongside light scratching. The domed acrylic crystal remains clear, bearing only light surface scratches and minor dust, with no major cracks or chips. The watch is fitted with a Rado-signed crown bearing the anchor logo, which shows moderate wear to the knurling and logo surface.
Movement
Inside beats a gold-plated automatic movement, clearly engraved with "RADO", "25 JEWELS", "SWISS", and the caliber designation "911". The movement presents a clean visual appearance with bright finishing on the rotor and bridges, showing no obvious corrosion or heavy staining. The timegrapher recorded +50+53s/day. Running in operational condition. Maintains the authentic mechanical character of the watch.
Strap
The timepiece is paired with a complementary black leather strap featuring white contrast stitching. It appears lightly used, showing only minor creasing.
Condition
Good vintage condition. The watch displays honest vintage wear, with moderate scratches and scuffs across the cushion case and polished bezel. The dial texturing is highly attractive, though there is notable degradation to the applied Rado anchor logo at 12 o'clock, alongside light oxidation on the hands. The crystal shows minor scratches and dust. The movement is running in operational condition, supported by the recorded timegrapher results.
Dimensions
The case measures 37 mm (excluding the crown).
Remarks
This Rado Matterhorn stands out through its highly distinctive vertical-textured dial and striking red date display. The preserved cushion case geometry ensures it remains a charismatic and very wearable 1970s collector piece.
History
Rado has long been recognized for its bold and unconventional approach to watch design, particularly during the 1970s. The Matterhorn model reflects this era of creative freedom, utilizing distinctive dial texturing and robust cushion cases to create timepieces with strong visual presence. Today, these models are appreciated by brand collectors for their unique aesthetic signatures and reliable Swiss mechanical foundations.
/ Second Vintage
SKU: RAD-MXX-0032














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Rado - Matterhorn - No reserve price - 70017668 - Men - 1970-1979
Rado
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