Rado - Cornell - No reserve price - 11916 - Men - 1970-1979

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This captivating Rado Cornell perfectly encapsulates the bold and optimistic design language of 1970s Swiss watchmaking. With its striking cushion-shaped case and immaculate silver sunburst dial, this timepiece offers a masterclass in mid-century aesthetic balance. The distinctive red accents, from the signature anchor logo to the vibrant date display, provide a wonderful contrast against the monochromatic steel canvas, making it a highly compelling acquisition for the discerning vintage collector. Brand: Rado Model: Cornell Reference Number: 11916 Movement: Automatic, 25 Jewels Dial: Silver sunburst dial with applied faceted indices, exceptionally clean and well-preserved Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless steel Production Year: 1970s Condition: Excellent vintage condition with a pristine dial and sharp case lines Dial and Hands The dial is a masterclass in 1970s design, featuring a brilliant silver sunburst finish that catches the light beautifully from every angle. It is remarkably well-preserved, remaining entirely free of prominent spots, stains, or moisture damage. The dial is adorned with applied faceted hour markers containing black central inserts, which perfectly match the striking baton hands. At the twelve o'clock position sits the signature Rado anchor logo set against a deep red background. A framed date window at three o'clock displays striking red numerals, adding a subtle pop of color to the sophisticated layout. The printed typography, including the crisp Cornell script, remains perfectly intact with no signs of print loss. Case and Crystal The 35 millimeter stainless steel cushion case exemplifies the architectural styling of its era. It features a distinct radial brushed finish on the upper surface that transitions cleanly into highly polished case flanks. The case remains in excellent vintage condition, exhibiting only honest, light handling marks while retaining its factory geometry and sharp lug profiles. The watch is fitted with a domed acrylic crystal that provides wonderful vintage distortion at the extreme edges. The original Rado signed crown is present and well-defined. The screw-down caseback is deeply engraved with the iconic Rado twin seahorse emblem, the Water-Sealed script, and the reference number, all remaining highly legible. Movement Powering this timepiece is a Swiss made automatic caliber featuring twenty-five jewels. The movement presents beautifully with a rich gold-plated finish and a proudly signed Rado rotor. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece at -6s/day. The mechanical components appear clean and well-maintained, reflecting the enduring quality of Rado engineering. Strap The watch is paired with a period correct black textured leather strap, detailed with contrasting white stitching and secured by a classic stainless steel pin buckle. Condition This Rado Cornell is presented in excellent vintage condition. The dial is the undeniable highlight, remaining incredibly clean and free of the degradation often found in watches of this age. The case shows normal, light signs of wear that are entirely consistent with careful ownership, maintaining its original brushed and polished contrasts beautifully. The acrylic crystal is clear and free of deep scratches. Dimensions The case measures 35 mm in diameter excluding the crown. Remarks This timepiece offers a fantastic opportunity to acquire a distinctive and highly wearable vintage Rado. The combination of the cushion case, the brilliant sunburst dial, and the red date wheel creates a compelling aesthetic that stands out effortlessly on the wrist. History Founded in Lengnau, Switzerland, Rado built its reputation on pushing the boundaries of conventional watch design. During the 1960s and 1970s, the brand became famous for its bold case shapes and the iconic anchor logo. The Cornell model perfectly encapsulates this era, offering a robust yet elegant timepiece that reflects the experimental and highly distinctive design language of mid-century Swiss watchmaking. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-RCX-0012