Rado Purple Horse 11716 (1970-1979)

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This Rado Purple Horse serves as a superb example of the brand's mid-century design philosophy, combining robust engineering with elegant dress watch aesthetics. Featuring the iconic rotating anchor logo and the distinct twin seahorse emblem, this piece captures the charm of 1970s horology perfectly. The gold-plated case pairs beautifully with the silver sunburst dial, creating a sophisticated vintage timepiece that offers significant character and historical appeal for the collector. Brand: Rado Model: Purple Horse Reference Number: 11716 Movement: Automatic Dial: Silver Sunburst Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Gold Plated Production Year: c. 1970 Condition: Good vintage condition. The watch presents an honest vintage appearance with visible wear to the case plating consistent with age, while the dial remains remarkably clean and attractive. Dial and Hands The silver sunburst dial is the highlight of this timepiece, preserved in very attractive condition with a bright radial finish. It features substantial gold-tone faceted hour markers that catch the light beautifully. At the 12 o'clock position sits the signature Rado rotating anchor logo against a red background, a beloved quirk of the brand. The lower dial displays the "Purple Horse" script and the applied twin seahorse logo. The date window at 3 o'clock is framed by a gold-tone border. The gold-tone dauphine hands feature vintage luminous inserts that have aged to a dark patina, matching the overall vintage character. Case and Crystal The 35mm case is gold-plated and shows honest signs of vintage wear, with softening of the edges and surface marks visible throughout, particularly on the lugs and bezel. The crown is signed with the Rado anchor symbol. The crystal is acrylic and features a magnifying cyclops over the date window, showing minor surface wear but remaining clear. The caseback is stainless steel and screw-down type, featuring the intricate Rado seahorse medallion and "Water-Sealed" engraving. It also prominently displays the patent numbers 345602 and 343942, along with the reference number 11716. Movement Powering the watch is a Rado-signed 25-jewel automatic movement with a gold-tone rotor. The movement appears visually clean and the rotor spins freely. Timegrapher testing shows the watch running between +41 and +50 seconds per day, indicating an active movement that is functioning. Strap The watch is fitted with a navy blue leather strap featuring contrasting yellow stitching that complements the gold tones of the case. The strap is in lightly used condition and is secured by a gold-tone pin buckle. Condition This timepiece is in good vintage condition. The dial is excellent and free of major blemishes. The case shows expected wear for its age, including scratches and some plating loss on the sharp edges, which adds to its authentic vintage history. The caseback has scratches consistent with opening tools used over the decades. Dimensions The case measures 35 mm in diameter excluding the crown. The lug design gives the watch a classic stance on the wrist, typical of the late 1960s and early 1970s dress watches. Remarks The Purple Horse is one of Rado's most enduring lines, celebrated for its durability and unique styling. This specific reference, with its clean silver dial and detailed caseback, represents a great entry point into collecting vintage Swiss automatics. The presence of the original signed crown and the functioning rotating anchor adds significant collector value to this charming piece. History Rado, originally founded as Schlup & Co. in 1917, transformed into the Rado brand in the 1950s and quickly became known for material innovation and water-resistant designs. The "Horse" collection, including the Green, Golden, and Purple Horse models, was instrumental in establishing Rado's reputation for quality in Asian and European markets during the mid-20th century. These models were marketed as waterproof and robust, often featuring the bayonet-style or screw-down backs that set the standard for daily wearers of the era. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-RPH-0005