Rado - Lauberhorn - No reserve price - 7838243 - Men - 1970-1979

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This bold timepiece perfectly captures the daring and expressive design language of the 1970s, a golden era for avant-garde watchmaking. Named after the legendary Swiss ski race, the Rado Lauberhorn stands out as a striking example of the brand's willingness to experiment with color, geometry, and light. With its robust cushion case, mesmerizing faceted crystal, and a vibrant gradient dial, this watch offers a highly engaging visual experience on the wrist. It is a captivating collector's piece that embodies the spirited aesthetic of its decade while housing a reliable and beautifully finished automatic caliber. Brand: Rado Model: Lauberhorn Reference Number: 7838243 Movement: Automatic, Caliber 2824 Dial: Purple gradient sunburst dial with applied faceted indices, exceptionally clean condition Case Size: 38 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1970s Condition: Excellent vintage condition with a remarkably preserved dial Dial and Hands The dial is a breathtaking showcase of vintage Rado design, featuring a rich purple and plum gradient that transitions from a lighter silver-grey center to deep, moody tones at the outer edges. The sunburst finish catches the light dynamically, complemented by applied faceted silver-tone indices with crisp white central inserts. The faceted baton hands perfectly match the indices, maintaining excellent visual harmony. At twelve o'clock, the signature Rado rotating anchor logo sits against a purple background, while a sharp date window at three o'clock displays red numerals on a white disc. The white serif typography for the brand and model names remains fully intact. The dial presents in exceptionally clean condition, free from visible spotting, moisture marks, surface damage, or print loss, representing an outstanding level of preservation. Case and Crystal The 38 mm stainless steel cushion case features a strong, architectural presence typical of the era. The top surface displays a pronounced factory brushed finish that contrasts handsomely with the polished flanks. The transition lines between these surfaces remain distinctly visible, indicating an honest and well-preserved case. A highly distinctive faceted crystal protects the dial, cut with precision to create an inner polygonal border that refracts light and adds immense depth to the watch face. The screw-down caseback is deeply engraved with the iconic Rado Water Sealed logo featuring three seahorses, alongside the reference number. The case exhibits normal, honest signs of vintage wear, including light surface scratches and handling marks, but retains its structural integrity and bold profile. Movement Powering this Lauberhorn is a robust automatic movement based on the ETA caliber 2824, clearly stamped near the balance wheel. The movement features 25 jewels and is beautifully decorated with a Rado-signed rotor displaying a refined engine-turned perlage pattern. The movement components appear clean and well-maintained. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. The timegrapher results show +1 to +4 seconds per day with strong amplitude. Strap The watch is fitted with its original Rado stainless steel folded-link bracelet. The clasp is proudly stamped with the Rado name and the anchor logo. The bracelet shares the same honest surface wear as the case, presenting a cohesive and period-correct aesthetic that integrates seamlessly with the cushion case design. Condition This Rado Lauberhorn is presented in excellent vintage condition. The dial is the clear highlight, remaining exceptionally vibrant and free of flaws. The heavily faceted crystal is intact and enhances the visual appeal. The stainless steel case and original bracelet show moderate, age-consistent surface wear that does not detract from the overall impressive presence of the watch. Dimensions The stainless steel case measures 38 mm in diameter, excluding the crown. The cushion shape provides a substantial and comfortable footprint on the wrist. Remarks Finding a vintage Rado with such a pristine, exotic colored dial and an intact faceted crystal is a rare treat for collectors. This Lauberhorn is a fantastic representation of 1970s horological flair, offering both aesthetic intrigue and dependable mechanical performance. It is a conversation piece that brings undeniable character to any vintage watch collection. History Rado has long been celebrated for its fearless approach to watch design and its pioneering use of unconventional materials and shapes. During the 1960s and 1970s, the brand released numerous models with striking dials, faceted crystals, and robust cases, often naming them after significant global locations or events. The Lauberhorn, taking its name from the famous downhill ski race in Wengen, Switzerland, reflects the sporty yet sophisticated lifestyle of the era. Today, these expressive vintage Rado models are highly sought after by enthusiasts who appreciate their unique charm and historical significance in the evolution of watch design. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-RLX-0003