Rado Marco Polo 11836 (1970-1979)

Presented for auction by Second Vintage Here is a charming example of Rado's adventurous spirit from the 1970s. The Marco Polo features the brand's signature rotating anchor logo and a distinctive C-shape case that embodies the era's bold design language. With its vertically brushed silver dial and robust stainless steel construction, this timepiece offers a perfect blend of retro style and honest vintage character. Brand: Rado Model: Marco Polo Reference Number: 11836 Movement: Automatic Dial: Silver Vertical Brushed Case Size: 36 mm Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: c. 1970s Condition: Good vintage condition. On the timegrapher, the watch is currently running between -24 and -30 seconds per day, indicating a movement that is functioning within acceptable parameters for an unserviced vintage timepiece. Dial and Hands The silver dial features a striking vertical brushed texture that plays beautifully with the light. It is adorned with thick raised block hour indices and the iconic Rado rotating anchor logo at the 9 o'clock position, which sits against a red background. The date window at 3 o'clock is clear and distinct. The hands are straight batons with black inserts, maintaining excellent contrast and legibility against the light dial. Case and Crystal The 36mm stainless steel case presents a classic 1970s tonneau or C-shape silhouette with broad lugs. It shows honest signs of vintage life, including surface scratches and wear throughout the case body and bezel, preserving its unpolished character. The crown is original and signed with the Rado anchor symbol. The acrylic crystal features an integrated date magnifier and remains in clear, presentable condition. Movement Powered by a Rado-signed automatic movement, based on the reliable Swiss ETA 2783 caliber, featuring 25 jewels. The gold-toned rotor is engraved with the brand's logo. On the timegrapher, the watch is currently running between -24 and -30 seconds per day, indicating a movement that is functioning within acceptable parameters for an unserviced vintage timepiece. Strap The watch is fitted with a black leather strap featuring contrasting white stitching and a silver-tone buckle. The strap is in excellent condition and complements the monochromatic aesthetic of the dial and case perfectly. Condition This timepiece is in good vintage condition. While the case shows evident cosmetic wear consistent with its age, the dial has been preserved remarkably well, remaining clean and crisp. The movement is functioning reliably, offering a genuine vintage experience on the wrist. Dimensions The case measures 36mm in diameter excluding the crown, making it a versatile size that wears comfortably on most wrists. Remarks The Rado Marco Polo is a delightful collector's piece that captures the robust design ethos of 1970s Rado. The rotating anchor is a beloved signature of the brand, serving as a fun interactive element on the dial. This particular example stands out for its vertical brushing, which adds a layer of texture and sophistication often missing from standard silver dials of the period. History Rado, founded in 1917 as Schlup & Co. in Lengnau, Switzerland, began selling watches under the Rado brand name in the 1950s. The company quickly established itself as a pioneer in materials and design, famous for the scratch-proof DiaStar. During the 1960s and 70s, Rado released a series of evocative model names like the Green Horse, Golden Horse, and Marco Polo, all of which featured robust automatic movements and distinct styling that set them apart from their contemporaries. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-RMP-0005