Rado - Golden Horse Sport - No reserve price - 11743 - Men - 1960-1969

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This Rado Golden Horse Sport is a remarkable example of mid-century Swiss design, combining the durability of a sports watch with the elegance of a dress piece. Featuring a distinct fluted bezel and the iconic rotating anchor logo, this Reference 11743 stands out as a sophisticated collector's piece. The oversized 37mm case provides a modern presence on the wrist while retaining the charm of the 1960s, making it a versatile addition to any vintage collection. Brand: Rado Model: Golden Horse Sport Reference Number: 11743 Movement: Automatic Caliber AS 1789 Dial: Silver Sunburst Case Size: 37 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: c. 1960s Condition: Good vintage condition. The watch presents an honest and attractive aesthetic with a well-preserved dial and normal signs of age on the case, suitable for immediate wear or collection. Dial and Hands The silver sunburst dial is in excellent condition, retaining a bright and reflective finish that catches the light beautifully. It features applied faceted block indices that add depth and texture to the face. The signature Rado rotating anchor logo at the 12 o'clock position sits on a vibrant red background and spins freely, a beloved feature of the brand. At the 3 o'clock position, the date window displays the date in distinctive red numerals, magnified by the original cyclops on the crystal. The sword-style hands are sharp and legible, complementing the twin seahorse logo at 6 o'clock which signifies the model's water-sealed heritage. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case measures a substantial 37mm, which is larger than many contemporaries of the era, offering a contemporary fit. The defining feature is the stainless steel fluted bezel, which adds a layer of sophistication similar to other luxury Swiss sports watches of the time. The case shows honest signs of vintage wear with light scratches and softening of the edges consistent with its age. The crown is original and signed with the Rado anchor. The screw-down caseback is a highlight, featuring the deeply embossed twin seahorse medallion and clear engravings of the reference and patent numbers, indicating the water-resistant engineering of the Golden Horse line. Movement Powering the watch is a Rado-signed 30-jewel automatic movement, based on the reliable Swiss AS 1789 caliber. The rotor is gold-plated and decoratively finished, showcasing the quality of Rado's internal finishing. The movement is clean and winding smoothly. Timegrapher testing shows the watch is running between -36 and -40 seconds per day, which indicates a healthy movement for a vintage timepiece of this era. Strap The watch is fitted with a new black leather strap with contrasting stitching on the underside. The strap is supple and complements the silver tones of the dial and case, giving the watch a dressy yet sporty appearance suitable for daily wear. Condition This timepiece is in good vintage condition. The dial is the standout feature, presenting very cleanly with minimal aging. The case and bezel show visible surface scratches and wear marks that are typical for a watch from the 1960s, adding to its character without detracting from its overall beauty. The crystal is clear with the date magnifier intact. Dimensions The case diameter is 37mm excluding the crown, offering a distinct and prominent wrist presence. The lug width accommodates standard straps, allowing for easy customization to suit the wearer's style. Remarks The Golden Horse Sport is a rarer variation of Rado's flagship line, distinguished by its sportier fluted bezel and larger case size. Finding one with such a pristine dial and the correct red date wheel is becoming increasingly difficult. This piece captures the essence of 1960s watchmaking, where utility met luxury, creating a watch that looks as good under a cuff as it does on the weekend. History Rado introduced the Golden Horse collection in 1957 as one of its first distinct product lines, symbolizing the brand's commitment to water resistance and automatic movements. The "Horse" series became a cornerstone of Rado's success in Asia and globally. The Golden Horse Sport Reference 11743 represents the brand's evolution in the 1960s, utilizing high-jewel count movements and robust steel cases to compete with the finest Swiss sports watches of the golden age of horology. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-RGH-0024