Presented for auction by Second Vintage
This Rado Kapell is a striking representation of 1970s Swiss watchmaking, capturing the bold and adventurous design language that defined the era. With its robust cushion-shaped case and an incredibly captivating grey sunburst dial, this timepiece offers a substantial yet refined presence on the wrist. The inclusion of Rado’s signature rotating anchor logo adds a dynamic element that vintage enthusiasts continuously seek, making this Kapell a highly attractive proposition for collectors looking for distinct character and reliable mechanical performance.
Brand: Rado
Model: Kapell
Reference Number: 6061285a
Movement: Automatic ETA Caliber 2824
Dial: Grey sunburst dial with applied indices, exceptionally clean condition
Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown)
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Production Year: 1970s
Condition: Good vintage condition with honest wear and a highly preserved dial
Dial and Hands
The dial is an absolute standout, featuring a rich grey sunburst finish that radiates beautifully from the center and plays dynamically with the light. It is exceptionally well-preserved, remaining clean and free from spotting, moisture damage, or significant signs of aging. At the twelve o'clock position sits the iconic applied Rado anchor logo on a red background, designed to rotate freely with the motion of the wearer. Below this, the applied "RADO" block lettering adds depth, while the elegant "Kapell" script is printed cleanly above six o'clock. The applied faceted steel baton hour markers feature white inserts, matching the pristine steel baton hands. A framed date window at three o'clock displays striking red numerals, adding a subtle touch of color to the monochromatic layout. The hands and indices exhibit very light, age-consistent oxidation visible only under close inspection, maintaining a crisp and highly legible appearance overall.
Case and Crystal
The 36mm stainless steel cushion case exemplifies classic 1970s geometry. The upper surface of the case features distinct vertical brushing that contrasts sharply with the polished case flanks, highlighting the watch's robust architectural lines. The case shows honest signs of vintage wear, including hairline scratches, light scuffs, and minor edge softening typical of regular use, yet it retains a strong and attractive overall profile. The original Rado anchor signed crown is present and well-defined. The screw-down stainless steel caseback displays the classic Rado water seahorse medallion along with the engraved reference number 6061285a, showing surface scratches consistent with its age. The crystal is clear and well-preserved, offering an unobstructed view of the dial with only faint superficial marks.
Movement
Powering this Kapell is the reliable automatic ETA Caliber 2824. The movement presents beautifully, with the winding rotor proudly stamped "RADO 25 JEWELS" and the baseplate clearly marked with the ETA shield, "2824", and "401". The visible components, gears, and plates remain clean and well-maintained. Performing well within expected vintage tolerances; running strong and steady. The timegrapher results show an accuracy of +34 to +38 seconds per day, confirming its solid operational health.
Strap
The watch is fitted with an original stainless steel mesh bracelet that perfectly complements the vintage aesthetic of the cushion case. The fold-over clasp is prominently signed with the embossed Rado anchor logo and "RADO" lettering. The bracelet accommodates a wrist size of up to 18 cm and exhibits moderate signs of wear, including surface scratches on the clasp, consistent with the condition of the watch head.
Condition
This timepiece is in good vintage condition. It presents beautifully on the wrist, driven by a remarkably clean dial and strong case presence. The case and bracelet exhibit normal, honest vintage wear with visible hairline scratches and light scuffs throughout. The dial remains a true highlight, remarkably pristine and highly attractive for a watch of this era.
Dimensions
Case Size: 36 mm
Wrist Size: 18 cm
Remarks
This Rado Kapell offers a fantastic opportunity to acquire a distinctive and highly wearable piece of 1970s design. The combination of the brushed cushion case, the immaculate grey sunburst dial, and the signature rotating anchor makes this a compelling addition to any vintage watch collection. Its strong mechanical health and period-correct styling ensure it is ready to be enjoyed by its next custodian.
History
Founded in 1917 in Lengnau, Switzerland, as Schlup & Co., Rado has built a formidable reputation for its innovative designs and distinctive aesthetics. By the mid-twentieth century, the brand became famous for its bold case shapes and the iconic rotating anchor logo, which signaled the presence of a self-winding movement. The Kapell model embodies this adventurous spirit, representing the robust and highly stylized approach to watchmaking that defined Rado during the golden age of mechanical timepieces.
/ Second Vintage
SKU: RADGK5YXP0000

Rado - Kapell - No reserve price - 6061285a - Men - 1970-1979
Rado
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