Rado - Marstron - No reserve price - M71032423 - Men - 1970-1979

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This Rado Marstron is a captivating artifact of the atomic age, seamlessly blending avant-garde 1970s aesthetics with highly collectible early electronic timekeeping. Born during an era defined by space exploration and rapid technological advancement, this model perfectly encapsulates the futuristic optimism of its time. With its dramatic faceted crystal, distinctive atomic dial emblem, and an electro-mechanical heart, it stands as a testament to Rado's fearless approach to unconventional watchmaking. Brand: Rado Model: Marstron Reference Number: M71032423 Movement: 13-Jewel Swiss Electronic Dial: Silver horizontally brushed dial with applied indices, atomic logo, and rotating anchor, presenting in remarkably clean condition Case Size: 37 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1970s Condition: Excellent vintage condition with sharp case geometry and a beautifully preserved dial Dial and Hands The silver dial features a subtle horizontal brushed texture that catches the light beautifully, serving as a dynamic backdrop for the watch's space-age elements. It is adorned with applied faceted baton indices featuring contrasting yellow and orange painted centers. At twelve o'clock sits Rado's signature free-spinning red anchor logo, positioned just above the applied brand name. The lower half of the dial is dominated by the printed "Marstron" text and a striking black atomic globe emblem, perfectly framing the date window at six o'clock which displays a vibrant red numeral. The original baton hour and minute hands feature black central stripes, complemented by a sweeping seconds hand. The dial is exceptionally clean, showing no significant spotting, moisture damage, or print loss, representing a highly attractive and well-preserved face with crisp, legible typography throughout. Case and Crystal The 37mm stainless steel case features a distinctive shield-like profile with hooded lugs and a neatly recessed crown positioned at four o'clock. The top surfaces retain their factory brushing, contrasting handsomely with the polished flanks and chamfered edges. Honest signs of vintage wear, including superficial surface scratches and minor handling marks, are visible under harsh lighting, but the case retains its sharp lines and unpolished character. The watch is fitted with a dramatic, highly raised faceted crystal that plays with light from every angle, an iconic hallmark of Rado's daring mid-century design language. The screw-down caseback bears the crisp Rado seahorse medallion alongside the engraved reference number, remaining highly legible. Movement Inside beats a Swiss 13-jewel electro-mechanical movement, representing a fascinating era of transitional horological technology. The gold-tone plates are prominently signed "Rado Electronic" and "Thirteen 13 Jewels Swiss Unadjusted." The intricate blend of traditional balance wheel mechanics and early transistor circuitry is visually captivating, showcasing the bridge between mechanical watchmaking and the quartz revolution. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. Timegrapher: 3s+10s/day. Strap The watch is paired with a period-correct black textured leather strap featuring contrasting white side stitching and a stainless steel pin buckle, complementing the robust steel case perfectly and providing a comfortable fit on the wrist. Condition This timepiece is presented in excellent vintage condition. The dial is pristine with vibrant printing and intact applied elements, showing virtually no signs of degradation. The prominent faceted crystal shows only minor surface wear consistent with its raised profile but remains highly legible and visually striking. The stainless steel case exhibits normal handling marks and fine scratches but maintains excellent structural integrity, sharp factory lines, and clean transitions between its brushed and polished surfaces. Dimensions Case Size: 37 mm (excluding the crown) Remarks The Rado Marstron is a rare and visually arresting timepiece that offers collectors a unique combination of bold geometric design and transitional movement technology. Its well-preserved condition and highly specific atomic-era branding make it a standout addition to any vintage portfolio focused on 1970s horology. History Rado has long been celebrated for its unconventional approach to watchmaking, particularly during the late 1960s and 1970s when the brand enthusiastically embraced futuristic designs, scratch-resistant materials, and complex faceted crystals. The Marstron model emerged during this highly experimental period, capturing the zeitgeist of the space race and the dawn of the electronic age. By outfitting the watch with an electro-mechanical movement, Rado positioned the Marstron at the very cutting edge of timekeeping technology, creating a watch that looked and functioned like the future. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-RMM-0002