Offered in this auction by Second Vintage
A classic vintage Rado with a standout dial, this timepiece immediately commands attention through its exceptionally well-preserved vibrant blue sunburst finish and distinctive red date display.
Brand: Rado
Model: Sunlight
Reference Number: K1059808
Movement: Automatic, caliber 2824, 25 jewels
Dial: Blue sunburst with applied gold-tone indices and red date display
Case Size: 34 mm (excluding the crown)
Case Material: Gold-tone
Production Year: 1970s
Condition: Good vintage condition. Timegrapher: -10-12s/day, performing remarkably well.
Dial and Hands
The visual highlight of the watch is its striking and exceptionally clean vibrant blue sunburst dial. The applied gold-tone indices and the signature Rado rotating anchor logo remain highly preserved and clean. All printed text is crisp and intact across the surface, complemented by clear and distinct red date numerals that add a brilliant touch of contrast and character. The original gold-tone hands match the indices beautifully, showing only light age-appropriate patina in the form of minor surface oxidation and micro-spotting visible under macro inspection, with no significant deformation.
Case and Crystal
The gold-tone case presents honest wear consistent with its age and history on the wrist. While the brushed finish on the case flanks is still visible, it has softened over the decades. The case exhibits moderate wear and scratches, with noticeable plating degradation and loss clearly visible on the high-contact edges of the lugs. The integrated smooth gold-tone bezel also shows scattered nicks, scratches, and plating wear along its periphery. The caseback displays light surface scratches, though its engravings remain crisp and legible. A gold-tone crown, signed with the Rado 'R' logo, completes the profile and shows wear to its knurling and plating. The domed acrylic crystal is generally clear, free of major cracks or chips, but does contain some light surface scratches visible at certain angles.
Movement
Inside beats the reliable caliber 2824 automatic movement, clearly stamped on the base plate alongside the ETA shield. The movement appears very clean, displaying no obvious signs of corrosion or moisture damage. It features a signed rotor with an attractive textured finish and 25 jewels. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. The timegrapher records a rate of -10-12s/day.
Strap
The watch is fitted with a black leather strap featuring contrasting yellow stitching. It is in wearable condition, showing light wear and creasing from use.
Condition
Good vintage condition. The vibrant blue dial is exceptionally clean and well-preserved, standing out as the strongest visual element of the timepiece. The gold-tone case, bezel, and signed crown display moderate wear, scratches, and noticeable plating loss on the edges consistent with regular use over the decades. The hands show light oxidation under macro inspection, and the acrylic crystal bears minor surface scratches. The movement is clean and running beautifully, supported by strong timegrapher results.
Dimensions
The case measures 34 mm (excluding the crown).
Remarks
This Rado Sunlight offers classic vintage dress watch proportions paired with a highly attractive blue sunburst dial. The contrasting red date display and the reliable ETA 2824 movement make it a compelling and distinctive choice for the discerning collector.
History
During the 1970s, Rado established a strong reputation for producing distinctive and characterful watches, often characterized by their signature rotating anchor logos and bold dial designs. The Sunlight model represents the brand's dedication to classic dress watch aesthetics while incorporating reliable Swiss mechanics. Utilizing the robust ETA 2824 architecture, a movement celebrated for its durability and precision, this era of Rado production offers enduring appeal for vintage enthusiasts who appreciate striking visual details and dependable engineering.
/ Second Vintage
SKU: RAD-SKX-0001












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Rado - Sunlight - No reserve price - K1059808 - Men - 1970-1979
Rado
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