Rado Manhattan Automatic (1970-1979)

Available now on auction by Second Vintage This Rado Manhattan is a definitive example of bold late 1960s and early 1970s design, characterized by its architectural square case and imposing wrist presence. A true cult classic among vintage enthusiasts, the Manhattan defied the round-watch convention of its era, offering a wide, screen-like dial that maximizes legibility and style. With its signature rotating anchor logo and distinctive day-date layout, this timepiece represents a golden era of Swiss experimentation and avant-garde styling. Brand: Rado Model: Manhattan Movement: Automatic Dial: Silver vertically brushed Case Size: 34 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Gold-plated Production Year: c. 1970s Condition: Good vintage condition. The watch presents an honest vintage character with visible wear to the gold plating and crystal, balanced by a very well-preserved dial. Running at +6 to +10 seconds per day, which indicates a healthy movement. Dial and Hands The dial features a sophisticated vertical brushed silver finish that catches the light beautifully. It is adorned with thick, applied gold-tone block indices that add significant depth to the face. At the 9 o'clock position sits the iconic Rado rotating anchor logo set against a purple backdrop, a beloved feature of the brand's automatic models. A framed day-date window is positioned at 3 o'clock, featuring a red date wheel that adds a pop of color. The gold-tone baton hands show signs of age and patina consistent with the watch's vintage nature, while the text remains crisp and legible. Case and Crystal The oversized square case is gold-plated, showcasing the massive, geometric architecture that makes the Manhattan model so collectible. There is visible wear to the gold plating, particularly on the sharp edges and corners, as well as surface scratches consistent with decades of use. The caseback is stainless steel and features the deeply embossed Rado seahorse logo and "Water Sealed" script, remaining in good condition. The substantial acrylic crystal, a signature element of this reference, shows visible scratches and signs of age but remains intact. Movement Powered by a Swiss automatic movement, this timepiece is functioning reliably. Timegrapher testing shows the watch running at +6 to +10 seconds per day, which indicates a healthy movement offering reliable vintage performance. Strap The watch is fitted with a brown leather strap featuring contrasting yellow stitching, which complements the gold tones of the case and gives the watch a sporty, casual appeal suitable for daily wear. Condition This timepiece is in Good vintage condition. While the case shows evident signs of wear to the gold plating and the crystal has surface marks, the dial itself is remarkably clean and attractive. The wear creates an honest, lived-in patina that many collectors appreciate in an unpolished vintage tool watch. Dimensions The case measures approximately 34 mm in width excluding the crown. However, due to the square geometry and thick profile, the watch wears significantly larger on the wrist than a traditional round 34mm watch, offering a substantial presence similar to a 36mm or 38mm round timepiece. Remarks The Rado Manhattan is widely regarded as one of the most distinctive shapes in vintage horology. Its "TV screen" aesthetic captures the essence of 1970s design language. This specific example, with its vertical brushing and intact rotating anchor, offers a charming entry point into the world of funky vintage Swiss design. History Rado, originally founded as Schlup & Co. in 1917, began selling watches under the Rado brand name in the 1950s. The company quickly established a reputation for innovation in materials and design, eventually becoming known as the "Master of Materials." The Manhattan was introduced in the mid-1960s and became one of the brand's most successful lines, celebrated for its unique rectangular construction which Rado marketed as waterproof—a significant engineering feat for square watches at the time. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD7L9Z6C0000