Rado - 990 - No reserve price - 11818-1 - Men - 1968

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This Rado 990 from 1968 is a striking example of the brand’s innovative approach to design during the mid-century era. Characterized by its distinctive tonneau-shaped case and vertical brushed silver dial, this timepiece encapsulates the forward-thinking aesthetics that made Rado a standout manufacturer. The prominent applied indices and the signature rotating anchor logo at the twelve o'clock position add a layer of dynamic visual interest, making it a highly compelling piece for collectors of vintage Swiss horology. Brand: Rado Model: 990 Reference Number: 11818-1 Serial Number: 180273 Movement: Automatic, 25 Jewels Dial: Silver vertically brushed dial, applied faceted markers, rotating anchor logo, clean condition Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1968 Condition: Good vintage condition, showing honest wear with a well-preserved dial Dial and Hands The dial of this Rado 990 is a masterclass in mid-century texture, featuring a pronounced vertical brushed finish that plays beautifully with the light. The silver base is remarkably well-preserved, remaining clean and free from significant moisture damage, spotting, or discoloration. The applied, faceted block indices with black central inserts provide excellent contrast and depth, complemented by the applied RADO typography and 990 designation. A standout feature is the iconic red rotating anchor logo, set against a silver disc, which remains vibrant and functional. The vertical day-date aperture at six o'clock is framed by a stepped, faceted window, adding architectural interest to the layout. The original baton hands, featuring black inserts matching the indices, are in excellent condition, exhibiting only minor, age-consistent oxidation under magnification. Case and Crystal The 35mm stainless steel tonneau case showcases Rado's distinctive design language, featuring a bold, angular profile with integrated lugs. The case exhibits good vintage condition, retaining its factory lines and the distinct transition between the sunburst brushed upper surfaces and the polished flanks. There are honest signs of wear, including scattered hairline scratches and minor handling marks consistent with its age, but no deep gouges or signs of heavy over-polishing. The original Rado signed crown, bearing the anchor logo, is present and features crisp knurling. The domed acrylic crystal is clear and free from deep scratches or cracks, offering an unobstructed view of the intricate dial beneath. The screw-down caseback is well-preserved, with the Rado seahorses and reference numbers clearly legible. Movement Powering this Rado 990 is a Swiss-made automatic movement, handsomely finished in a rich golden tone. The rotor is clearly signed "RADO" alongside the anchor logo and "25 JEWELS." The movement architecture is clean, with the balance wheel and regulating components presenting well. The base plate is stamped "SWISS" and features the caliber designation "900." Running in vintage operational condition. Maintains the authentic mechanical character of the era. The timegrapher result is -40 to -46 seconds per day. Strap The watch is fitted with a period-correct, dark brown leather strap featuring an embossed crocodile pattern and matching tonal stitching. The strap is in excellent condition, showing minimal signs of wear, and is secured with a standard stainless steel pin buckle. Condition This Rado 990 is presented in good vintage condition. The dial is exceptionally clean, a crucial factor for collectors, while the case retains its original geometry and finishing despite showing normal, honest wear expected from a watch of this era. The movement is clean and operational, and all original signatures and markings on the caseback and crown are intact and legible. Dimensions Case Width: 35 mm (excluding the crown) Remarks This Rado 990 is a fantastic representation of the brand's unique stylistic identity during the 1960s. The combination of the vertical brushed dial, the chunky tonneau case, and the signature rotating anchor makes it a highly recognizable and desirable piece. Its well-preserved condition, particularly the pristine dial, ensures it will be a standout addition to any vintage collection. History Founded in 1917 as Schlup & Co., Rado initially produced watch movements before launching its own brand of finished watches in the 1950s. The brand quickly gained a reputation for its distinctive designs and pioneering use of unconventional materials, a philosophy that would eventually lead to their famous scratch-resistant ceramic watches. The 1960s were a golden era for Rado's design innovation, producing iconic models that pushed the boundaries of traditional watchmaking aesthetics. The Rado 990 series is a testament to this period, offering a bold, architectural look that remains highly appealing to collectors today, embodying the dynamic and experimental spirit of mid-century Swiss horology. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-RXX-0006