Rado Ticino 8227261A (1970-1979)

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This Rado Ticino is a vibrant example of 1970s Swiss design, featuring a captivating champagne gold dial that immediately commands attention. The distinct C-shaped stainless steel case and the iconic rotating anchor logo make this a quintessential piece for collectors of eccentric vintage timepieces. With its robust automatic movement and original signed bracelet, this watch offers a perfect blend of retro aesthetics and reliable mechanical engineering. Brand: Rado Model: Ticino Reference Number: 8227261A Movement: Automatic ETA 2824 Dial: Champagne gold sunburst Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: c. 1970s Condition: Good vintage condition. The watch shows honest signs of wear with surface scratches on the case and bracelet, while the dial remains in stunning condition. The movement is performing reliably. Dial and Hands The highlight of this timepiece is the striking champagne gold dial which features a subtle sunburst finish that plays beautifully with the light. The dial is adorned with substantial applied block indices and the signature Rado rotating anchor logo at 12 o'clock, which sits against a red background. The hands are a classic baton style with luminous inserts that have aged to a darker tone. A date window is positioned at 3 o'clock. The cursive "Ticino" script adds a touch of elegance to the lower dial. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case features a hooded lug design, often referred to as a C-shape, which was highly popular in the 1970s. The case surfaces show visible scratches and wear consistent with age, retaining its original geometry without signs of over-polishing. The crown is signed with the Rado anchor. The screw-down caseback features the deeply embossed Rado "Water-Sealed" tri-seahorse logo, which is crisp and well-preserved. The crystal appears clear with minimal marks. Movement Powering the watch is a Swiss-made ETA caliber 2824 automatic movement, signed by Rado on the rotor with 25 jewels. The movement plating is clean and the rotor spins freely. Timegrapher testing shows the watch running between +11 and +17 seconds per day, which indicates a healthy movement operating well within vintage tolerances. Strap The watch comes fitted on its original stainless steel flat-link bracelet. It features a signed Rado clasp with the anchor logo. The bracelet integrates smoothly with the hooded lugs and fits a wrist size of approximately 18cm. It shows surface wear and scuffing matching the case condition. Condition This piece is in good vintage condition. While the case and bracelet exhibit visible scratches and signs of daily use from decades past, the watch remains structurally sound and attractive. The dial is the standout feature, preserved in excellent condition with no significant spotting or damage. The overall presentation is honest and characterful. Dimensions The case measures 35mm in diameter excluding the crown, but the cushion-style shape and integrated bracelet give it a slightly more substantial presence on the wrist than the dimensions suggest. Remarks The Rado Ticino is a less common reference compared to the Voyager or Green Horse lines, making it a desirable find for Rado enthusiasts. The combination of the gold-tone dial against the steel case creates a sporty yet dressy look that perfectly encapsulates the bold styling of the 1970s era. History Rado, originally founded as Schlup & Co. in 1917, began selling watches under the Rado brand name in the 1950s. They quickly established a reputation for innovation, particularly in the realm of water resistance and materials. The "Water-Sealed" logo seen on the caseback of this Ticino represents the brand's commitment to durability during this era. Rado is celebrated for pushing design boundaries, and this model is a testament to their golden age of creative case shapes and colorful dials. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-RJA-0001