Rado - Serbia - No reserve price - G1010663A - Men - 1970-1979

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This Rado Serbia is a fascinating example of 1970s design, capturing the era's adventurous spirit with its distinctive case shape and captivating dial execution. The watch embodies Rado's commitment to creating timepieces with unique visual identities, blending robust stainless steel construction with a dial that demands closer inspection. It stands as a compelling piece for collectors of unconventional vintage Rado models or anyone drawn to the bold aesthetics of the decade. Brand: Rado Model: Serbia Reference Number: G1010663A Movement: Automatic, ETA 2824, 25 Jewels Dial: Linen-textured gradient grey-brown dial with applied faceted indices, showing beautiful even aging Case Size: 37 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1970s Condition: Good vintage condition, showing honest wear consistent with age, with a beautifully preserved textured dial. Dial and Hands The dial of this Rado Serbia is its most striking feature, presenting a complex linen texture beneath a gradient finish that transitions from a lighter silvery-grey in the center to a deep, earthy brown at the edges. This "fumé" or vignette effect is highly characteristic of the era and adds significant depth. The dial is adorned with tall, applied faceted baton indices that catch the light beautifully, along with the signature Rado rotating anchor logo at the 12 o'clock position. The printed "RADO" and "SERBIA" text remains crisp and legible. A framed date window sits at 3 o'clock, featuring red numerals on a white disc. The faceted dauphine hands show some age-related oxidation and patina, matching the overall vintage character of the piece. The dial surface itself appears very clean, free from significant spots, moisture damage, or flaking, presenting a highly attractive and even vintage aesthetic. Case and Crystal The 37mm stainless steel case features a distinctive tonneau-esque shape with hooded lugs, providing a substantial and integrated presence on the wrist. The case exhibits a mix of brushed surfaces on the top and polished flanks. Visual inspection reveals honest signs of wear throughout, including various surface scratches, scuffs, and small nicks consistent with decades of use. The edges, while showing some softening from wear, retain their fundamental geometry. The crown, partially recessed into the case side at 3 o'clock, bears the Rado anchor logo. The domed acrylic crystal shows some light surface wear but remains clear, allowing an unobstructed view of the textured dial beneath. The screw-down caseback is clearly engraved with the Rado seahorses logo, "STAINLESS STEEL," "WATER SEALED," and the reference number G1010663A. Movement Powering this timepiece is a Swiss-made ETA caliber 2824 automatic movement, customized by Rado. The rotor is clearly signed "RADO 25 JEWELS" in gold-toned lettering. The movement displays standard finishing for the era and appears visually clean in the provided macro photographs. The caliber designation "2824" is visible on the base plate. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. The timegrapher results indicate a performance of +4 to +8 seconds per day with strong amplitude. Strap The watch is fitted with its original stainless steel bracelet featuring a multi-link design that complements the case geometry. The clasp is signed with the Rado seahorse logo. The bracelet shows typical vintage stretch and surface scratches consistent with the wear on the case, suitable for a wrist size up to 18cm. Condition This Rado Serbia is in good vintage condition. It displays an honest, unpolished appearance with expected surface wear, scratches, and minor nicks across the case and bracelet. The true highlight is the dial, which remains exceptionally well-preserved, showcasing its intricate linen texture and gradient coloration without significant flaws. The hands exhibit appropriate vintage oxidation. The movement is running exceptionally well based on the provided timegrapher data. Dimensions Case Size: 37 mm (excluding the crown) Wrist Size: 18 cm Remarks This model represents a specific and interesting chapter in Rado's diverse historical catalog. The combination of the robust steel case, the highly textured gradient dial, and the reliable ETA 2824 movement makes it a very wearable and visually engaging vintage piece. History Rado, originally founded as Schlup & Co. in 1917, became known under the Rado name in the 1950s. The brand quickly established a reputation for innovative designs and, later, the pioneering use of scratch-resistant materials. During the 1960s and 1970s, Rado produced a vast array of models with distinct, often futuristic or highly stylized aesthetics, utilizing unique case shapes and captivating dial treatments. Models like the Serbia reflect this era of creative exploration, offering collectors a window into the bold design language of mid-century Swiss watchmaking. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-RSG-0001