Rado SpaceWing 633.3087.4 (1970-1979)

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This is a captivating example of Rado design from the 1970s, showcasing the brand's ability to blend unconventional case shapes with classic dial elegance. The Rado SpaceWing features a distinctive oval stainless steel case that sits comfortably on the wrist, offering a retro charm that is distinct from the typical round watches of the era. With its iconic rotating anchor logo and crisp Roman numerals, this timepiece captures the essence of vintage Swiss watchmaking. Powered by a reliable automatic movement, this SpaceWing is a fantastic choice for collectors looking for a dress watch with character and history. Brand: Rado Model: SpaceWing Reference Number: 633.3087.4 Movement: ETA 2824 Automatic Dial: Silver sunburst with Roman numerals 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 consistent with its age, including surface scratches on the case and bezel. The movement is performing exceptionally well, with timegrapher results showing a variance of -3 to -10 seconds per day, indicating a very healthy mechanism. Dial and Hands The silver sunburst dial is in lovely vintage condition, presenting a sophisticated backdrop for the painted black Roman numeral hour markers. A defining feature of this model is the iconic Rado anchor logo at the 12 o'clock position, which rotates freely against a red background, a beloved quirk of the brand. The dial features a date window at 3 o'clock which is framed cleanly. The slim baton hands are well-preserved, and while there is some very minor patina and faint dust visible upon close inspection, the overall legibility and aesthetic appeal remain strong. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case features a unique oval silhouette that curves gently to hug the wrist. The case is in honest vintage condition, showing visible surface scratches and handling marks throughout the polished surfaces and bezel area, which is expected for a piece of this age. The original crown is signed with the Rado anchor symbol. The screw-down caseback features the detailed Rado Seahorse medallion and "Water Sealed" engraving, remaining crisp and clearly legible. The high-domed acrylic crystal is generally clear but does show some light scratches and crazing consistent with vintage wear. Movement Inside beats a high-quality Swiss ETA 2824 automatic movement with 25 jewels. This is a legendary workhorse caliber known for its durability and ease of service. The rotor is signed by Rado, and the movement plates appear clean. Based on timegrapher data, the watch is running within excellent vintage tolerances at roughly -3 to -10 seconds per day, suggesting the mechanism is in robust mechanical health. Strap The watch is fitted with a black textured leather strap featuring contrasting white stitching. The strap is in good condition and complements the monochrome aesthetic of the dial and case, secured by a stainless steel buckle. Condition This timepiece is graded in Good vintage condition. It wears its history openly with visible scratches and nicks on the case and bezel, giving it an authentic vintage character. The dial remains attractive despite minor signs of age. Mechanically, the watch is a standout performer, running with a precision that rivals many modern mechanical watches. Dimensions With a case width of 35mm excluding the crown, the oval shape gives it a slightly larger presence on the wrist than the dimension suggests. It is a versatile size that works well as a dress watch or a casual daily wearer for those who appreciate mid-century styling. Remarks The SpaceWing is a testament to Rado's golden era of design where they experimented with form while maintaining traditional Swiss quality. The combination of the Roman numeral dial with the space-age case shape creates a delightful contrast. The rotating anchor logo remains one of the most charming interactive features in vintage horology, serving as an instant visual identifier for the brand. History Rado, founded in 1917 as Schlup & Co., began selling watches under the Rado brand in the 1950s. By the 1970s, the company had established itself as a pioneer in materials and design, often deviating from the standard round case shapes of competitors. The SpaceWing name fits perfectly into the context of the era, reflecting the fascination with space exploration and futuristic terminology that influenced design trends throughout the late 1960s and 1970s. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-RSX-0001