Rado - Golden Sabre - No reserve price - 11046 - Men - 1970-1979

Available now on auction by Second Vintage Discover a striking example of 1970s Swiss design with this Rado Golden Sabre. Distinguished by its geometric precision and light-playing faceted crystal, this timepiece perfectly captures the bold aesthetic of the era. Rado has long been celebrated for their innovative use of materials and distinctive styling, and the Golden Sabre stands as a testament to their creative golden age. This specific example features the iconic rotating anchor logo and a sharp stainless steel case, making it a compelling choice for collectors who appreciate vintage character and reliable engineering. Brand: Rado Model: Golden Sabre Reference Number: 11046 Movement: Automatic Caliber ETA 2798 Dial: Silver Sunburst with Day-Date Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: c. 1970s Condition: Excellent vintage condition Dial and Hands The dial is a pristine silver sunburst canvas that catches the light beautifully. It features applied faceted hour markers that complement the overall geometry of the watch. At the 12 o'clock position sits the signature Rado rotating anchor logo against a red background, a charming kinetic feature beloved by enthusiasts. A framed day-date window is positioned at 3 o'clock, with the day displayed vertically, adding a unique vintage touch. The hands are clean and sharp, maintaining excellent legibility. The most defining feature is the impressive faceted crystal, which remains in superb condition and creates a captivating prism effect across the dial. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case is in excellent vintage preservation, retaining its original sharp lines and cushion-shaped profile. The brushing on the upper surfaces is distinct, transitioning cleanly to polished sides. There are minimal signs of handling, and the case edges remain crisp, suggesting the watch was worn with great care. The distinctive faceted crystal is free from major chips or scratches, ensuring the unique visual effect is preserved. The caseback features the detailed Rado Water-Sealed medallion with the seahorse logo, displaying the reference number 11046 clearly. Movement Powering this timepiece is the automatic Caliber ETA 2798, finished with a gold-plated rotor signed by Rado. The movement is clean and presents well visually. A timegrapher test indicates a rate of +37s to +40s per day. This result indicates a healthy movement offering reliable vintage performance suitable for daily wear. Strap The watch is fitted with a high-quality black leather strap featuring contrasting yellow stitching. The strap is supple and complements the sporty yet elegant nature of the Golden Sabre, providing a comfortable fit on the wrist. Condition This timepiece is in excellent vintage condition. The dial is exceptionally well-preserved with no visible staining or damage. The case retains its architectural integrity with strong definition between brushed and polished surfaces. The movement is clean and functioning within expected parameters for a watch of this vintage. Dimensions The case measures 35 mm in diameter excluding the crown, a classic size that offers a refined presence on the wrist. The cushion shape allows it to wear slightly larger than the dimensions suggest, providing a substantial feel without being overpowering. Remarks The Rado Golden Sabre is a masterclass in 1970s watch design, combining a robust stainless steel construction with the elegance of a faceted crystal. This particular example stands out due to its remarkable state of preservation. It is a watch that draws the eye and sparks conversation, perfect for the collector who values condition and distinct design language. History Rado was founded in 1917 as Schlup & Co. in Lengnau, Switzerland, eventually launching under the Rado brand name in the 1950s. The company quickly gained a reputation for innovation, particularly in the realm of scratch-resistant materials and avant-garde designs. The Golden Sabre series was introduced during a period when Rado was experimenting heavily with case shapes and optical effects, utilizing faceted crystals to create watches that were as much jewelry as they were timekeepers. The rotating anchor logo, present on this model, was originally designed to indicate when the movement needed service, stopping when the oils dried out, but it has since become the enduring symbol of the brand's automatic watches. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-RGS-0004