Rado - Balboa - No reserve price - 74047731A - Men - 1970-1979

Now available at auction from Second Vintage This classic 1970s Rado design features the distinctive faceted case architecture typical of the Balboa line, beautifully paired with a striking gradient brown dial. Brand: Rado Model: Balboa Reference Number: 74047731A Movement: Automatic ETA 2824 Dial: Gradient brown to grey finish with applied indices Case Size: 35mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Silver-tone Production Year: 1970s Condition: Excellent vintage condition. Timegrapher: +8+11s/day, performing remarkably well. Dial and Hands The dial presents a striking gradient brown to grey finish, offering excellent depth and clarity. Applied indices are crisp and bright, complementing the clean, fully intact printed text. There is no visible spotting or moisture damage, leaving the surface beautifully preserved. The faceted gold-tone hands perfectly match the dial furniture and remain highly clean, showing no visible oxidation. Case and Crystal The distinctive silver-tone case features a highly polished faceted surface, preserved in excellent condition. It shows minimal signs of wear or scratching, with the crisp edges meticulously maintained throughout the architecture. The case design integrates the top surface without a distinct separate bezel. Fitted with a matching faceted crystal that aligns beautifully with the case geometry, the glass remains clear with no significant scratches or chips visible. The watch is completed by a signed crown featuring the Rado anchor logo, which retains good definition on the logo and knurling. Movement Powering this watch is a Swiss automatic ETA 2824 caliber featuring 25 jewels. The movement presents beautifully, with clean plates and bridges, showing no visible corrosion or significant tool marks. The rotor is clearly signed with the Rado name and caliber details. Timegrapher: +8+11s/day. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. Strap The watch is fitted with a period correct two-tone bracelet showing normal honest wear. Constructed with contrasting links, the bracelet exhibits visible surface scratches and wear on the gold-tone center sections. The bracelet accommodates a maximum wrist fit of 19cm. Condition Excellent vintage condition. The faceted case and matching crystal are remarkably well preserved, maintaining crisp edges and showing only minimal signs of wear. The gradient brown dial and faceted gold-tone hands remain incredibly clean and bright, free from visible spotting or oxidation. The period correct two-tone bracelet shows honest surface wear and scratches, particularly on the gold-tone center links. The automatic movement is exceptionally clean and, supported by the recorded timegrapher result, is performing very strongly. Dimensions The case measures 35mm (excluding the crown). Remarks This Rado Balboa is a superb example of 1970s watch design, characterized by its striking faceted case and beautifully preserved gradient dial. The excellent condition of the dial and the clean ETA movement make it a highly attractive acquisition for collectors of bold vintage timepieces. History During the 1970s, Rado established a strong reputation for producing highly distinctive watches featuring unconventional materials and bold geometric designs. The Balboa line is a prime example of this era, characterized by its faceted cases and dynamic dials that caught the light in unique ways. Utilizing reliable Swiss calibers, these watches offered a compelling mix of avant-garde styling and dependable mechanical performance. Today, well-preserved examples of Rado's faceted models are appreciated by collectors for their striking aesthetic and enduring vintage charm. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-RBA-0001