Rado Starliner 11758-1 (1968)

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This Rado Starliner is a remarkable example of 1960s space-age design, boasting an impressive 38 mm case size that was considered oversized for its era and remains perfectly contemporary today. Defined by its iconic rotating anchor logo and distinct Seahorse caseback, this timepiece combines robust engineering with elegant aesthetics. The stunning champagne dial with vertical brushing catches the light beautifully, making it a sophisticated choice for the collector seeking a vintage dress watch with significant wrist presence and historical character. Brand: Rado Model: Starliner Reference Number: 11758-1 Serial Number: 1604019 Movement: Automatic, 25 Jewels Dial: Champagne vertically brushed Case Size: 38 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Gold Plated and Stainless Steel Production Year: 1968 Condition: Excellent vintage condition, running between +21 and +23 seconds per day which indicates healthy movement. Dial and Hands The dial is the highlight of this timepiece, featuring a rich champagne tone with a vertically brushed texture that adds depth and sophistication. It is adorned with thick, applied block indices in gold and black, providing excellent legibility and a three-dimensional effect. The signature Rado anchor at the 12 o'clock position rotates freely on its ruby bearing, a charming hallmark of the brand's automatic models. The date window at 3 o'clock is neatly framed, and the original baton-style hands match the indices perfectly. The dial surface is remarkably clean, showing excellent preservation. Case and Crystal The oversized 38 mm case features a gold-plated upper construction with distinct, sharp lugs that offer a commanding stance on the wrist. The case retains good definition, though there are signs of light vintage wear and surface scratches consistent with age. The caseback is made of stainless steel and features the deeply embossed Rado Seahorse medallion and "Water-Sealed" text, utilizing Rado's unique bayonet closure system. The caseback shows some visible scratches and tool marks from past opening. The acrylic crystal is clear and presents well, while the crown is original and signed with the Rado anchor logo. Movement Powering this watch is a Swiss-made automatic movement with 25 jewels, likely based on a reliable A. Schild caliber modified by Rado. The movement features a gold-tone Rado signed rotor and is visually clean. Timegrapher testing shows the watch running between +21 and +23 seconds per day, which indicates offering reliable vintage performance. Strap The watch is fitted with a new brown leather strap featuring an alligator grain pattern and contrasting stitching. The strap complements the gold tones of the case and dial, giving the watch a warm and dressy appearance suitable for daily wear. Condition This timepiece is in excellent vintage condition. The dial is exceptionally well-preserved with no significant spotting or damage. The case shows honest wear to the gold plating, primarily visible on the edges and lugs, but retains its structural integrity and attractive shine. The movement is functioning well within vintage parameters. Dimensions With a diameter of 38 mm excluding the crown, this Starliner wears larger than most dress watches from the 1960s, making it highly desirable for modern wrists. The lug design and bezel width contribute to a substantial yet elegant profile. Remarks The Rado Starliner is a testament to the brand's commitment to unconventional design and durability. Finding examples with such a clean vertically brushed dial and in this larger case size is becoming increasingly difficult. This specific reference 11758-1 offers a perfect blend of mid-century charm and wearable dimensions. History Rado, founded in Lengnau, Switzerland, has always been a pioneer in materials and design. Introduced in the late 1950s and popularized throughout the 1960s, the Starliner collection was part of Rado's space-exploration themed marketing. These watches were marketed as robust, water-resistant timepieces capable of handling daily rigors while maintaining a futuristic elegance. The rotating anchor logo, originally intended to indicate when the movement needed service (if the anchor stopped spinning), became one of the most beloved trademarks in vintage horology. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-RSX-0016