Rado - Stratojet - No reserve price - 72040375 - Men - 1970-1979

Presented for auction by Second Vintage A captivating example of 1970s futuristic design, this Rado Stratojet perfectly encapsulates the bold aesthetic of the space age era. Featuring a robust cushion case and a striking charcoal sunburst dial adorned with the brand's signature rotating anchor, this timepiece offers a compelling blend of avant-garde styling and reliable Swiss engineering. The dynamic dial typography and integrated date complication make it a highly wearable and conversation-starting addition to any vintage collection, presenting beautifully on the wrist with its sharp, architectural case lines. Brand: Rado Model: Stratojet Reference Number: 72040375 Movement: Automatic, 25 Jewels Dial: Charcoal grey sunburst dial with applied faceted indices, presenting in exceptionally clean condition with no visible spotting or moisture damage Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1970s Condition: Excellent vintage condition with a beautifully preserved dial and honest case lines Dial and Hands The dial is a masterclass in vintage preservation, featuring a deep charcoal grey sunburst finish that plays beautifully with the light. It presents in stunning condition, entirely free of spotting, moisture marks, print loss, or surface degradation. The dial furniture is highly detailed, boasting applied faceted rectangular indices with crisp white center stripes that perfectly match the baton hands. At the twelve o'clock position sits the iconic Rado rotating anchor logo with a vibrant red background, while the lower half of the dial features the stylized "Stratojet" typography integrated into a subtle gold-toned radar graphic. A silver-framed date aperture at three o'clock displays striking red numerals, adding a brilliant pop of color to the monochromatic layout. The hands and indices retain their crisp factory appearance, showing no signs of heavy oxidation. Case and Crystal The 36mm stainless steel cushion case exhibits a powerful, geometric presence characteristic of the era. The case retains its sharp factory profile and distinct transitions, featuring a radially brushed top surface that contrasts handsomely with the polished flanks. Honest signs of vintage wear, including light superficial scratches and handling marks, are visible upon close inspection, but the case remains robust and free of deep gouges. The original Rado-signed crown, detailed with the anchor emblem, sits flush against the case side. The screw-down caseback is deeply engraved with the Rado seahorse medallion, "Water-Sealed" text, and the reference number 72040375, all remaining crisp and well-defined. The domed acrylic crystal shows some light surface wear and minor edge crazing consistent with its age, but maintains excellent transparency. Movement Powering this Stratojet is a beautifully finished Swiss automatic movement, visible through the removed caseback in the provided images. The mechanism features a rich gold-toned finish across the bridges and the distinctive Rado-signed rotor, which is clearly marked with "25 JEWELS" and the Rado anchor logo. The base plate is stamped "SWISS", reflecting its precise origins. Performing well within expected vintage tolerances; running strong and steady. The timegrapher records a deviation of +35s to +39s/day. Strap The watch is fitted with a period-correct black leather strap featuring an alligator grain pattern and contrasting white stitching. The strap compliments the charcoal dial and is secured with a classic stainless steel pin buckle, presenting in excellent, highly wearable condition. Condition This Rado Stratojet is graded in excellent vintage condition. The dial is exceptionally well-preserved and stands as the undeniable highlight of the piece. The stainless steel case shows honest, age-appropriate wear while retaining its sharp lines and original brushed finishes. The movement is clean, fully operational, and visually stunning. Dimensions Case width: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Remarks Finding a vintage Rado with such a pristine dial and sharp case is becoming increasingly difficult for collectors. The Stratojet model offers a unique blend of robust stainless steel construction, mesmerizing dial texture, and the quirky charm of the red date wheel and rotating anchor. It is a highly charismatic timepiece that delivers tremendous vintage appeal and daily wearability. History During the 1960s and 1970s, Rado established itself as a pioneer of unconventional case designs and innovative materials. The brand embraced the space age optimism of the era, releasing models with futuristic names like the Stratojet, which featured bold cushion cases and dynamic dial layouts. Rado also introduced their patented rotating anchor logo during this period, a clever mechanical feature designed to indicate an automatic movement within. Today, these distinctive mid-century Rado models are highly sought after by collectors who appreciate their unique aesthetic language and robust Swiss construction. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-SXX-0008