Rado Manchester Sapphire 11006 (1970-1979)

Now available at auction from Second Vintage This Rado Manchester immediately captures attention with its striking faceted sapphire crystal, a sought-after configuration that creates fascinating optical effects across the dial. Paired with a vibrant silver sunburst finish, a distinctive red date display, and a well-preserved cushion case, this watch represents a highly attractive example of 1970s design aesthetics. Brand: Rado Model: Manchester Reference Number: 11006 Serial Number: 38770585 Movement: Automatic ETA caliber 2789, 25 jewels Dial: Silver sunburst with applied faceted indices and red date display Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless steel Production Year: 1970s Condition: Excellent vintage condition. Timegrapher: +20+25s/day, running strong and steady. Dial and Hands Exceptionally clean and vibrant, the silver sunburst dial is in outstanding condition with no visible spotting, staining, or moisture damage. The applied faceted indices show no visible oxidation, complementing the crisp black printed text and the signature applied Rado anchor logo set against a red background. A distinctive red date display is positioned at 3 o'clock, adding a sharp touch of color to the layout. The original baton hands feature black central stripes and show appropriate age-related patina, with light oxidation and aging visible on the metal surfaces under magnification. The luminous material remains intact but displays natural aging. Case and Crystal The cushion-shaped stainless steel case features a polished finish and remains in well-preserved vintage condition. It exhibits honest, light surface scratches and handling marks consistent with careful wear, while the distinctive case edges remain well-defined. The bezel is seamlessly integrated into the case design. Turning the watch over reveals crisp and clearly legible caseback engravings. The signed crown, featuring the Rado anchor logo, shows well-defined fluting and light surface wear. Covering the dial is a distinctive faceted sapphire crystal with no significant scratches, chips, or cracks visible, providing a clear view while generating unique optical effects at the edges. Movement Powering the watch is the ETA caliber 2789, an automatic movement featuring 25 jewels. The movement presents beautifully with gold-tone plates and bridges, alongside a rotor decorated with an attractive crosshatch textured finish. It appears very clean, showing no visible corrosion, oxidation, or damaged screw heads. The ETA shield and caliber number are clearly visible under the balance wheel. The timegrapher records +20+25s/day. Performing well within expected vintage tolerances; running strong and steady. Strap The watch is fitted with an attractive black leather strap featuring white contrast stitching, which beautifully complements the dial. The strap appears to be in new or very lightly used condition. Condition Excellent vintage condition. The cushion case has been well preserved, showing honest light wear and crisp caseback engravings. The silver sunburst dial is exceptionally clean, while the original hands display appropriate aging visible under magnification. The distinctive faceted sapphire crystal remains remarkably clear. Dimensions The case measures 36 mm in diameter, excluding the crown. Remarks This Rado Manchester appeals directly to collectors who appreciate daring 1970s design. The combination of the remarkably clean silver sunburst dial, the red date display, and the original faceted sapphire crystal makes this a highly compelling vintage timepiece. History During the 1970s, Rado established a strong reputation for highly distinctive case geometries and the pioneering use of scratch-resistant materials, including faceted sapphire crystals. The Manchester model perfectly reflects this era of bold, expressive watchmaking. Powered by the reliable ETA 2789 movement, these watches were designed to be both visually striking and mechanically robust, securing their place as a collector favourite among vintage Rado enthusiasts today. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-MXX-0043