Rado Stratojet Caliber AS 1858 (1970-1979)

Presented for auction by Second Vintage Rado has long been celebrated for its avant-garde case designs and robust, distinctive dials. The Stratojet is a prime example of the brand's space-age aesthetic from the 1970s, combining a substantial cushion case with striking dial typography. With its signature rotating anchor logo and compelling sunburst dial, this timepiece captures the adventurous and futuristic spirit of an era when watchmakers were pushing the boundaries of traditional design. Brand: Rado Model: Stratojet Movement: Automatic Caliber AS 1858 Dial: Grey sunburst dial with applied indices and rotating anchor logo, showing light age-related spotting Case Size: 37 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1970s Condition: Good vintage condition with honest wear Dial and Hands The dial presents a captivating grey sunburst finish that plays beautifully with the light, anchored by the iconic red and silver rotating Rado anchor logo at twelve o'clock. Applied block indices feature crisp white inserts, complemented by matching baton hands. The lower half of the dial proudly displays the "STRATOJET" text alongside a distinctive radar target motif. A framed date aperture at three o'clock reveals striking red typography. Upon close inspection, the dial exhibits light, age-consistent spotting and minor surface marks, particularly around the perimeter and near the indices, adding a layer of authentic vintage character without detracting from its overall legibility and charm. Case and Crystal The 37mm stainless steel cushion case features a classic 1970s silhouette with a brushed top surface that transitions into polished flanks. The case displays honest signs of wear, with superficial scratches and minor handling marks consistent with decades of use. The original Rado-signed crown, featuring the anchor emblem, remains intact. The screw-down caseback is deeply engraved with the Rado seahorses, "Water-Sealed" text, and the "STRATOJET" model designation, showing typical scuffs from age. The domed acrylic crystal protects the dial and exhibits minor surface wear expected of a vintage timepiece. Movement Inside beats the Swiss-made automatic Caliber AS 1858, proudly finished in a rich gold tone and signed by Rado. The 25-jewel movement features a smoothly sweeping rotor and traditional finishing. Performing well within expected vintage tolerances; running strong and steady. The timegrapher indicates a performance of -21 to -24 seconds per day. Strap The watch is fitted with an original Rado stainless steel mesh bracelet. The sliding clasp is deeply stamped with the Rado name and anchor logo, providing a secure and period-correct aesthetic that complements the space-age design of the case. Condition This Rado Stratojet is in good vintage condition. The case retains its original geometry though it shows expected softening and surface scratches from regular wear. The dial presents an attractive vintage appearance with localized spotting and minor aging that confirm its history. The hands and indices remain well-preserved, and the movement is operational and visually clean. Dimensions Case Size: 37 mm (excluding the crown) Wrist Size: Accommodates up to 18.5 cm Remarks This piece represents a fantastic opportunity to acquire a distinctive 1970s Rado with compelling design elements. The combination of the grey sunburst dial, the iconic rotating anchor, and the comfortable original mesh bracelet makes it a highly wearable and conversational vintage watch. History Founded in 1917 as Schlup & Co., Rado initially produced watch movements before launching its own brand of finished watches in the 1950s. By the 1960s and 1970s, Rado distinguished itself through the use of unconventional materials and bold, futuristic case shapes. The Stratojet perfectly encapsulates this era of daring experimentation, reflecting the mid-century fascination with aviation and space exploration while maintaining the robust, water-sealed construction that became a hallmark of the brand's legacy. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-RSX-0024