Rado Manchester Sapphire 657106 (1970-1979)

Presented for auction by Second Vintage Discover a distinct piece of 1970s horological design with this Rado Manchester Sapphire. Known for their pioneering use of materials and avant-garde aesthetics, Rado created the Manchester line to combine durability with striking visual flair. This example features the brand's signature faceted sapphire crystal, which catches the light in a prismatic display, adding depth and character to the wrist. With its rotating anchor logo and solid stainless steel construction, this timepiece represents the bold creativity of the Swiss watch industry during the 1970s, making it a compelling choice for collectors. Brand: Rado Model: Manchester Sapphire Reference Number: 657106 Movement: Automatic Dial: Silver Sunburst with Vertical Brushing Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: c. 1970s Condition: Good vintage condition. The watch shows normal vintage wear with visible marks and scratches on the case consistent with age, while the dial remains clean and attractive. Timegrapher results show approximately +50 to +56 seconds per day, indicating a functioning movement running within vintage parameters. Dial and Hands The dial is finished in a vertically brushed silver tone that plays beautifully against the light. It features blocky, high-relief applied hour markers that provide excellent legibility and depth. A framing minute track runs along the outer edge. The signature Rado anchor logo at the 12 o'clock position sits on a red ruby-colored background and is designed to rotate with the movement of the wearer. A date window is positioned at 3 o'clock. The baton-style hands feature black inlays for contrast. The defining feature is the faceted sapphire crystal, cut with vertical and horizontal bevels that create a gem-like appearance over the dial. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case features a cushion-shaped profile typical of the 1970s, combining polished surfaces with sturdy architecture. The case shows signs of use with surface scratches and scuffs expected from a watch of this era. The crown is original and signed with the Rado anchor symbol. The screw-down caseback is proudly stamped with the Rado "Water-Sealed" three-seahorse logo and the reference number 657106, preserving the engravings clearly. Movement Powering the watch is a Swiss-made automatic movement, identified as the ETA caliber 2793. The rotor is gold-plated and signed by Rado, featuring Geneva stripe decoration. The movement features 25 jewels and offers reliable vintage performance. The mechanism is clean and presents well visually. Strap The watch is fitted with a black leather strap featuring white contrast stitching, adding a sporty yet classic touch that complements the silver tones of the dial and case. It is secured by a stainless steel pin buckle. Condition This timepiece is in good vintage condition. The case retains its original lines but shows honesty in its wear with various surface scratches. The dial is well-preserved, free from heavy staining or damage. The faceted crystal remains the focal point of the watch. Timegrapher testing indicates a rate of +50 to +56 seconds per day, which indicates a healthy movement. Dimensions The case measures 35 mm in diameter excluding the crown, offering a classic vintage fit that sits comfortably on the wrist due to the cushion case design. Remarks The Rado Manchester Sapphire is a testament to the brand's commitment to creating "scratch-proof" and highly durable watches long before it became an industry standard. The combination of the faceted sapphire glass and the animated anchor logo makes this a conversation starter and a delightful piece of retro-futurism. History Rado was founded in 1917 as Schlup & Co. in Lengnau, Switzerland, but it wasn't until the 1950s that watches were sold under the Rado brand name. The company quickly distinguished itself through the use of unconventional materials like tungsten carbide and sapphire crystal, marketing the first "scratch-proof" watch, the Diastar, in 1962. The Manchester line followed in this tradition, utilizing high-grade sapphire crystals often cut with elaborate facets to demonstrate Rado's mastery over hard materials. This specific model captures the essence of 1970s Rado design language, prioritizing both durability and distinct visual identity. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-RMS-0002