Rado - New Golden Horse - Sans prix de réserve - 11816 - Homme - 1970-1979

Offered in this auction by Second Vintage The 1970s was a golden era for Rado's daring design language, and this New Golden Horse stands as a striking testament to that creative period. Featuring an unmistakable cushion case and a captivating vertical two-tone dial, this timepiece perfectly captures the quintessential charm of vintage Swiss watchmaking. The signature free-spinning anchor and applied twin seahorses add the distinctive character that Rado collectors continuously seek out. Brand: Rado Model: New Golden Horse Reference Number: 11816 Movement: Automatic ETA Caliber 2789, 25 Jewels Dial: Vertical two-tone olive and dark grey dial with applied indices, showing visible spotting and age-related patina throughout Case Size: 38 mm Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1970s Condition: Good vintage condition with honest wear and distinct dial aging Dial and Hands The dial is a fascinating visual display, featuring a broad vertical stripe pattern that shifts between a metallic olive tone and darker grey edges. It is furnished with applied block indices featuring white inserts, an applied Rado logo, the iconic free-spinning anchor with a red background at nine o'clock, and the signature applied twin seahorses positioned at eight o'clock. A framed day-date aperture sits at three o'clock, showcasing alternating red and green numerals. Upon close inspection, the dial exhibits noticeable, even spotting and surface oxidation across the finish, consistent with its age. The faceted baton hands show significant oxidation and degradation to their original fill, adding a heavy vintage character to the watch's face. Case and Crystal The substantial 38 millimeter stainless steel cushion case features a classic 1970s profile with a gently brushed upper surface contrasting against high-polish flanks and a polished sloping bezel. The case retains strong lines and good geometry, exhibiting honest, age-appropriate handling marks and light surface scratches throughout. The original signed crown, bearing the Rado 'R' emblem, sits flush against the case side. The screw-down caseback features the deeply stamped Rado Water Sealed twin seahorse medallion, which remains highly visible alongside the reference number. The watch is fitted with a prominent, high-domed acrylic crystal that adds wonderful depth to the dial, showing minor surface wear consistent with standard use. Movement Inside beats a Swiss-made automatic ETA Caliber 2789, featuring 25 jewels and a Rado-signed rotor. The movement presents cleanly in the provided macro images, with the caliber designation clearly stamped beneath the balance wheel. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. The timegrapher results indicate an exceptional precision of -3 to -6 seconds per day with strong amplitude. Strap The watch is presented on a period-correct folded-link stainless steel bracelet that complements the robust, geometric aesthetic of the cushion case. The bracelet shows moderate stretch and normal wear marks typical of vintage stainless steel bands. Condition This Rado is presented in good vintage condition. The case is structurally sound with normal signs of wear, while the dial and hands display heavy, honest patina, including distinct spotting and metal oxidation. The mechanical health is a major highlight, with the movement running exceptionally well. Dimensions Case Size: 38 mm Wrist Size: Accommodates up to 17.5 cm Remarks This New Golden Horse is a highly charismatic example of Rado's mid-century design philosophy. The combination of the striking vertical dial layout, the mechanical day-date complication, and the signature spinning anchor makes this a compelling piece for enthusiasts of distinctive 1970s horology. History Rado has long been celebrated for its avant-garde approach to watch design and its pioneering use of unconventional materials and shapes. The Golden Horse collection, first introduced in the late 1950s, was one of the brand's earliest major successes and helped establish Rado's reputation for robust, water-resistant timepieces. By the 1970s, the New Golden Horse evolved to incorporate the bold, chunky case geometries and vibrant dial designs that defined the decade, perfectly encapsulating the fearless aesthetic of the era. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-GHX-0009