Rado - Musketeer VI - No reserve price - 11958 - Men - 1970-1979

Available now on auction by Second Vintage This Rado Musketeer VI is a quintessential example of 1970s daring design, combining a robust stainless steel architecture with a distinctive gold-plated fluted bezel. With its vertically brushed grey dial and the brand's signature rotating anchor logo, this timepiece offers a unique wrist presence that captures the bold aesthetic of the era. It represents a fantastic opportunity for collectors to acquire a piece of Swiss watchmaking history that balances retro charm with distinct character. Brand: Rado Model: Musketeer VI Reference Number: 11958 Movement: Automatic Caliber ETA 2797 Dial: Grey textured vertical brushed finish Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel and Gold Plated Production Year: c. 1970s Condition: Good vintage condition. Timegrapher testing: -60s to -67s/day, which indicates an operational movement, that could benefit from some adjustment. Dial and Hands The dial is the standout feature of this timepiece, presenting a sophisticated grey tone with a heavy vertical brushed texture that interacts beautifully with the light. It features thick, applied gold-tone block indices with white inlays, matched by baton-style hands. The iconic Rado anchor logo sits on a red background at the 12 o'clock position and rotates freely, a beloved characteristic of the brand. A gold-framed date window is positioned at 3 o'clock. The dial remains in excellent preservation with crisp text and intact Tritium lume plots that have aged naturally. Case and Crystal The watch features a substantial TV-shaped case design that sits boldly on the wrist. The main case body is crafted from stainless steel, while the bezel features a gold-plated finish with a fluted, ridge-like texture. The case shows honest signs of vintage wear, with some fading and wear to the gold plating on the high points of the bezel and light scratches on the polished steel sides. The original crown is signed with the Rado anchor. The screw-down caseback is clearly stamped with the reference number and the detailed Rado Seahorse medallion, confirming its water-sealed heritage. The crystal shows some surface wear and hazing consistent with its age. Movement Powering the watch is a copper-colored Rado signed automatic movement, based on the reliable ETA caliber 2797. The rotor is signed "RADO 25 JEWELS." The movement is clean and currently functioning, winding automatically as intended. Strap The watch is fitted with a brown leather strap featuring an alligator grain pattern and matching stitching. It is secured by a gold-tone pin buckle that complements the bezel, offering a comfortable fit and a dressy aesthetic that suits the vintage style of the case. Condition This timepiece is in good vintage condition. The dial is exceptionally well-preserved, which is often the most critical aspect for collectors. The case and bezel show visible wear and patina, particularly the gold plating on the bezel edges, which adds to the authentic vintage character of the piece. The movement is running and ready to be worn. Dimensions With a case width of 36 mm excluding the crown, the watch wears larger than its dimensions suggest due to the square "TV" shape and broad lug presence. It sits prominently on the wrist, making it a perfect statement piece for modern wear. Remarks The Musketeer VI is a distinct model within the Rado archives, showcasing the brand's willingness to experiment with shape and texture during the 1970s. While Rado is often famous for the scratch-proof Diastar, models like the Musketeer offer a different kind of appeal with their intricate dial textures and architectural cases. This specific reference, with its two-tone look and Seahorse caseback, is a charming conversation starter for any vintage enthusiast. History Rado, founded in 1917 as Schlup & Co., began selling watches under the Rado brand in the 1950s and quickly established itself as a pioneer in materials and design. By the 1970s, the era when this Musketeer was produced, Rado was well-known for its "Water Sealed" technology and unconventional case shapes. The Musketeer line was marketed as a robust and stylish option for the active gentleman, often featuring the rotating anchor symbol which served as a service indicator—when the anchor stopped moving, the oils were dry. This watch stands as a testament to Rado's golden era of creative design. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-RMB-0003