Rado - Cornell - No reserve price - 11916 - Men - 1970-1979

Offered in this auction by Second Vintage Discover the distinct charm of the 1970s with this Rado Cornell, a timepiece that perfectly encapsulates the bold design language of the era. This vintage automatic watch combines a robust stainless steel cushion case with a dial that features striking rhinestone-set hour markers, offering a touch of retro elegance on the wrist. The celebrated rotating anchor logo and the triple seahorse caseback engraving are hallmarks of Rado's commitment to quality and water-resistance technology during this period. With its reliable automatic movement and original signed bracelet, this Cornell is a fantastic entry point for collectors seeking a piece of genuine Swiss horological history with plenty of character. Brand: Rado Model: Cornell Reference Number: 11916 Movement: Automatic ETA 2783 Dial: Silver with rhinestone indices Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless steel Production Year: c. 1970s Condition: Good vintage condition. Timegrapher testing indicates a daily rate of approximately -38s to -40s/day. Which indicates a healthy movement mechanism that is operating reliably within the broad spectrum of vintage tolerances. Dial and Hands The silver dial has developed a charming and uniform "stardust" patina that adds significant vintage character. The most striking feature is the set of raised square indices, each housing a sparkling rhinestone, which catches the light beautifully. The classic Rado rotating anchor logo is present at 12 o'clock against a red background. The stick hands feature black inlays for contrast, accompanied by a red sweep second hand. A date window is positioned at 3 o'clock, displaying the date in distinct red numerals. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case features a tonneau or cushion shape typical of the 1970s, measuring 36mm in width. The case remains in honest condition, retaining its original lines while showing visible surface scratches and signs of wear consistent with its age. The crown is original and signed with the Rado anchor logo. The screw-down caseback is clearly engraved with the model name "Cornell," the reference number 11916, and the iconic "Water-Sealed" medallion featuring three seahorses, which is crisp and well-preserved. Movement Powering the watch is a Swiss automatic movement, identified as the ETA caliber 2783. The rotor is gold-toned and signed "RADO 25 JEWELS." The movement appears visually clean and boasts a gilt finish. Timegrapher testing indicates a daily rate of approximately -38s to -40s/day. Which indicates a healthy movement mechanism that is operating reliably within the broad spectrum of vintage tolerances. Strap The watch is fitted with its original Rado signed stainless steel link bracelet. The clasp cover features the Rado logo and text stamped clearly. The bracelet fits a wrist size of approximately 18cm and shows moderate stretch and surface wear that matches the condition of the case. Condition This timepiece is in Good vintage condition. It shows honest signs of use throughout, including surface scratches on the case and bracelet, which attest to its life as a worn and enjoyed instrument. The dial shows aging in the form of spotting, which is common for this era and arguably enhances its vintage appeal. The watch is fully functional and ready to wear. Dimensions The case measures 36mm in diameter excluding the winding crown. The lug-to-lug length ensures a comfortable presence on a variety of wrist sizes, while the cushion shape gives it a slightly larger visual impact than a traditional round case. Remarks The Rado Cornell is a testament to the brand's adventurous design ethos in the mid-20th century. The combination of the "bling" style indices with a utilitarian steel case creates a unique aesthetic that is becoming increasingly collectible. History Rado was founded in 1917 as Schlup & Co. but began selling watches under the Rado brand name in the 1950s. By the 1970s, when this Cornell was likely produced, Rado had established itself as a pioneer in materials and case construction, particularly with their "Water-Sealed" technology. The triple seahorse logo found on the back of this watch was a symbol used to denote models with superior water resistance for the time. This specific model utilizes the reliable ETA 2783 workhorse movement, which was a staple of Swiss watchmaking reliability during the 1970s. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-RCX-0013