Rado - Golden Horse - No reserve price - 11816 - Men - 1970-1979

Now available at auction from Second Vintage The Rado Golden Horse is a true icon of mid-century Swiss design, representing one of the brand's earliest and most successful collections. This specific example captures the essence of 1970s styling with its robust case architecture and signature details. With its distinctive rotating anchor logo and the celebrated double seahorse emblem, this timepiece is a wonderful example of Rado's unique approach to watchmaking, combining durability with an elegant, futuristic aesthetic. Brand: Rado Model: Golden Horse Reference Number: 11816 Serial Number: 35862714 Movement: Automatic Dial: Silver Sunburst Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: c. 1970s Condition: Excellent vintage condition with a very well-preserved dial and sharp case lines. Timegrapher readings indicate -53s to -65s/day, which indicates a running movement operating within vintage parameters. Dial and Hands The silver dial is in stunning condition, featuring a subtle vertical brushed sunburst finish that catches the light beautifully. It is adorned with raised silver block indices and the signature rotating Rado anchor logo on a purple background at the 12 o'clock position. The classic Golden Horse double seahorse emblem is crisp and distinct at 6 o'clock. A framed day and date window is located at the 3 o'clock position. The polished silver hands feature luminous inserts that have aged to a warm, consistent patina. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case features a classic cushion design typical of the 1970s, measuring 35mm in diameter. The case retains its original geometry with polished surfaces and clean edges, showing only minimal signs of vintage wear. The crown is original and signed with the Rado anchor symbol. The screw-down caseback is in excellent condition, clearly displaying the deep relief "Water Sealed" seahorse medallion along with the sharp reference and serial number engravings. The crystal is clear and free of distracting marks. Movement Powering the watch is a Rado-signed automatic movement with 25 jewels. The mechanism features a gold-plated rotor and appears visually clean and free of corrosion. Based on timegrapher testing, the movement is running with a daily rate of approximately -53s to -65s. Strap The watch is fitted with a high-quality stainless steel mesh bracelet that perfectly matches the period aesthetic of the timepiece. It is secured by a Rado-signed folding clasp that functions smoothly. The bracelet is generous in length and will accommodate a wrist size of approximately 21cm. Condition This timepiece is in excellent vintage condition. The dial is exceptionally clean and free of spotting or damage. The case is sharp and attractive, showing only light handling marks consistent with its age. The movement is running, and the overall presentation is that of a cherished and well-maintained vintage object. Dimensions The case measures 35mm in width excluding the crown. The total wrist size capability is approximately 21cm. Remarks This Rado Golden Horse is a standout example for collectors, offering the desirable combination of a pristine dial, the quirky rotating anchor feature, and the original signed mesh bracelet. It represents a fantastic opportunity to acquire a piece of Rado's "Water Sealed" heritage in a condition that is becoming increasingly difficult to find. History Rado, originally founded as the Schlup & Co. clockwork factory in 1917, began producing watches under the Rado brand name in the 1950s. The Golden Horse collection, launched in 1957, was pivotal in establishing the brand's international reputation for quality and water resistance. The rotating anchor logo, introduced shortly after, became a hallmark of their automatic movements, designed to mimic the motion of the rotor inside. Today, vintage Golden Horse models are celebrated for their distinctive character and robust construction. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-RGH-0043