Now available at auction from Second Vintage
Defined by its striking 1970s faceted design, this Rado Ticino is a sought-after example of the era's bold aesthetic. The vibrant gold-to-champagne gradient dial, paired with its distinctive original faceted crystal and integrated block-link bracelet, creates a highly charismatic vintage presence on the wrist.
Brand: Rado
Model: Rado Ticino (8216761)
Movement: Caliber 2797, 25 Jewels
Dial: Gold-to-champagne gradient with vertical brushing and red date display
Case Size: 35mm (excluding the crown)
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Production Year: 1970s
Condition: Good vintage condition. Timegrapher: +15+18s/day, performing remarkably well.
Dial and Hands
The dial is a vibrant and well-preserved gold-to-champagne gradient finish characterized by striking vertical brushing. It features an applied Rado anchor logo set against a red background, complemented by applied faceted hour markers and distinctive red date numerals at the 3 o'clock position. The surface remains exceptionally clean, with no significant spotting or damage visible. Sharp and well-preserved faceted silver-tone hour and minute hands sweep the dial alongside a slender central seconds hand, all presenting clean surfaces with minimal signs of oxidation.
Case and Crystal
The distinctive faceted cushion case design features brushed upper surfaces contrasting with polished flanks. It presents honest vintage wear on a striking 1970s case shape, showing light to moderate surface scratches consistent with age and use, while the edges remain reasonably well defined. The bezel is integrated directly into the main case body, and the crown is clearly signed with the Rado anchor logo, showing light surface wear. The distinctive multi-faceted cut crystal offers clear visibility of the dial, exhibiting some light surface scratches and minor edge wear visible under close inspection.
Movement
Powering the watch is the Caliber 2797, a 25-jewel movement displaying a gold-plated finish. The mechanism maintains a clean appearance with no obvious signs of corrosion or moisture damage, and the rotor is clearly signed. Visible engravings include "RADO", "25 JEWELS", "2797", "204", "SWISS", and "R". Recording +15+18s/day on the timegrapher, the movement is exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece.
Strap
The watch is fitted with its original signed stainless steel block-link bracelet. It shows moderate surface scratches and scuffs consistent with use, and the clasp is proudly signed with the Rado seahorses logo. The bracelet accommodates a maximum wrist size of 19cm.
Condition
Good vintage condition. The case displays honest wear with light to moderate surface scratches, while the crystal shows minor edge wear and light scratches. The gradient dial and hands remain exceptionally clean and well-preserved. Supported by the recorded timegrapher result, the movement is performing very strongly. The original bracelet shows expected scuffs from normal use.
Dimensions
The case measures 35mm in diameter (excluding the crown).
Remarks
This Ticino distinguishes itself through its bold 1970s design language, highlighted by the original faceted crystal and vibrant gradient dial. It remains a cohesive collector piece, retaining its original signed block-link bracelet and signed anchor crown while delivering strong mechanical performance.
History
During the 1970s, Rado established a bold design language characterized by unconventional case geometries, faceted crystals, and striking dial treatments. The brand embraced the era's adventurous aesthetic, creating visually dynamic watches that departed from traditional mid-century styling. Models like the Ticino showcase this creative period perfectly, combining robust mechanical calibers with highly distinctive exterior components that remain appreciated by enthusiasts of 1970s horology.
/ Second Vintage
SKU: RAD-TXX-0004















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Rado - Ticino - No reserve price - 8216761 - Men - 1970-1979
Rado
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