Rado - Starliner 999 - No reserve price - 11730 - Men - 1960-1969

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This striking vintage timepiece captures the bold, space-age optimism of mid-century horology, offering collectors a charismatic blend of distinctive design and reliable Swiss mechanics. With its unmistakable rotating anchor logo, striking red date display, and beautifully preserved sunburst finish, this watch exemplifies the adventurous aesthetic that defined its era, making it a highly compelling addition to any vintage portfolio. Brand: Rado Model: Starliner 999 Reference Number: 11730 Movement: Automatic 25 Jewels Dial: Silver sunburst with applied faceted gold-tone indices and red date wheel, exceptionally clean condition Case Size: 37 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Gold-plated with stainless steel caseback Production Year: 1960s Condition: Good vintage condition with honest wear to the gold-plated case and a remarkably well-preserved dial Dial and Hands The dial is a primary value driver of this timepiece, presenting in stunning vintage condition with exceptional preservation. The silver sunburst surface is remarkably clean, radiating beautifully under light and remaining free of moisture marks, significant spotting, or discoloration. Applied gold-tone faceted block indices feature distinctive black central channels, perfectly matching the gold-tone baton hands, which also carry black center striping for high-contrast legibility. At the twelve o'clock position sits the iconic Rado free-spinning anchor logo set against a vibrant ruby-red background. The applied "999" and "STARLINER" typography at nine o'clock adds magnificent depth and texture to the dial architecture. A framed date aperture at three o'clock displays striking red numerals, completing the highly attractive and visually dynamic layout. Case and Crystal The 37mm gold-plated case features a classic mid-century profile with elegantly sweeping lugs. The case remains in good vintage condition, exhibiting honest and authentic signs of daily wear expected from a timepiece of this vintage. Close inspection reveals surface scratches, micro-abrasions, and localized plating wear, particularly along the case flanks and the Rado-signed anchor crown, which shows visible brassing. The reverse side features a robust stainless steel decagonal caseback, deeply embossed with the Rado twin seahorse "Water Sealed" medallion. The caseback displays typical surface scratches consistent with careful wear and historic case openings. The watch is fitted with a domed acrylic crystal that remains largely clear, showing only faint, age-appropriate surface wear that does not detract from the magnificent dial beneath. Movement Housed inside is a robust Swiss automatic caliber, revealed beautifully when the caseback is removed. The movement is distinguished by a striking gold-tone winding rotor, proudly engraved with the Rado signature, the anchor logo, and "25 JEWELS". The underlying rhodium-plated main plates are cleanly stamped "SWISS". The architecture presents cleanly with no obvious signs of heavy corrosion or mishandling, retaining a bright and well-kept appearance. Running in vintage operational condition. Maintains the authentic mechanical character of the era. The timegrapher records a deviation of +40 to +45 seconds per day. Strap The watch is paired with a handsome period-correct black leather strap featuring an embossed crocodilian pattern. The strap offers a refined, slightly textured contrast that perfectly complements the gold-tone case and the black accents found on the dial and hands. Condition This timepiece is in good vintage condition overall, defined by a truly exceptional dial that stands out as a premium feature. The case and crown display honest, authentic wear, including surface scratches and plating loss consistent with its 1960s production. The deeply engraved caseback remains crisp and legible despite standard wear marks, ensuring the watch retains its authentic historical character. Dimensions Case Size: 37 mm (excluding the crown) Remarks A quintessential mid-century Rado with distinctive space-age design elements. The combination of the applied Starliner 999 branding, the signature rotating anchor, and the roulette-style red date makes this a highly charismatic and collectible piece for vintage enthusiasts seeking strong visual presence. History Rado established itself in the mid-20th century as a pioneer of avant-garde design and resilient watchmaking. The Starliner series emerged during the height of the space race, reflecting the era's deep fascination with futuristic aesthetics and technological progress. Characterized by bold dials, the iconic free-spinning anchor logo indicating an automatic movement, and robust Swiss mechanics, the Starliner 999 remains a beloved testament to Rado's innovative spirit and unmistakable visual identity. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-SXX-0004