Rado - Musketeer IV - No reserve price - 11994 - Men - 1970-1979

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This Rado Musketeer IV is a captivating example of the brand's avant-garde approach to design during the 1970s. With its faceted crystal, distinct case geometry, and unique textured gold-tone accents, this timepiece stands out as a bold statement on the wrist. The combination of a vertically brushed silver dial and the characteristic rotating anchor logo makes this a highly collectible piece for enthusiasts of eccentric vintage horology. Brand: Rado Model: Musketeer IV Reference Number: 11994 Movement: Automatic Caliber 2797 Dial: Silver vertically brushed with gold accents Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: c. 1970s Condition: Good vintage condition, showing honest signs of wear to the case and bracelet while retaining a pristine dial and running with strong amplitude approximately -10 to -12 seconds per day. Dial and Hands The dial is a stunning vertically brushed silver that catches the light beautifully. It features distinctive applied gold-tone hour markers that are multifaceted and tall, adding significant depth to the face. The iconic Rado anchor logo at 12 o'clock rotates freely against a red background. A date window is vertically positioned at the 6 o'clock mark, framed in gold. The gold-tone baton hands are filled with lume that has aged to a warm tone, matching the lume plots on the outer track. The text is crisp, reading "Rado," "Musketeer IV," and "T Swiss Made T" at the bottom. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case features a cushion-shaped silhouette with hidden lugs, characteristic of the era. A unique design element of this model is the textured gold-tone rectangular accents positioned on the bezel at 12 and 6 o'clock, creating a subtle two-tone aesthetic. The watch is fitted with a signature Rado faceted crystal which creates a prism effect, distorting and reflecting light in a mesmerizing way. The case shows surface scratches and signs of wear consistent with age, particularly on the polished sides and bracelet integration points. The crown is signed with the Rado anchor logo. The screw-down caseback features the detailed Rado tri-seahorse medallion and reference stamping. Movement Powering the watch is the Rado signed Caliber 2797 automatic movement. The gold-colored movement features 25 jewels and a decorated rotor. It is clean and running with strong amplitude, currently timing between -10 and -12 seconds per day, indicating healthy movement function. Strap The watch comes on its original stainless steel flat-link bracelet. It features a signed Rado folding clasp with the applied anchor logo. The bracelet exhibits moderate stretch and surface wear consistent with the case condition. It is sized to fit a wrist of approximately 17.5 cm. Condition This timepiece is in good vintage condition. The dial is exceptionally well-preserved, free from staining or damage. The case and bracelet show visible surface scratches and wear marks expected from a watch of this age that has been enjoyed. The faceted crystal is clear with only minor marks that do not detract from visibility. The movement is strong and reliable. Dimensions The case measures 35 mm in width excluding the crown, offering a classic vintage proportion that wears slightly larger due to the case shape and bracelet integration. Remarks The Musketeer IV is one of the more expressive models from Rado's extensive 1970s catalog. The combination of the prism crystal, the textured gold bezel accents, and the vertical date window makes it a conversation starter. This is a fantastic opportunity to acquire a piece of Rado's funky design heritage in honest, original condition. History Rado has long been a pioneer in materials and design, distinguishing itself in the mid-20th century with scratch-proof materials and unconventional shapes. The Musketeer line sits alongside other famous series like the DiaStar and Manhattan, representing a period where Rado experimented heavily with geometric forms and optical effects through faceted crystals, establishing a design language that remains unique to the brand today. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-RMX-0001