Rado Rising Star 11994 (1970-1979)

Now available at auction from Second Vintage This Rado Rising Star presents a classic 1970s design, distinguished by its vertically brushed silver dial and striking red date display. Fitted with its original signed folded-link bracelet, this piece delivers an authentic period aesthetic characterized by its distinctive cushion case geometry and the brand's signature rotating anchor logo. Brand: Rado Model: Rising Star Reference Number: 11994 Movement: Automatic, caliber AS 1902 Dial: Silver with vertical brushed finish, applied indices, and red date display Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless steel Production Year: 1970s Condition: Good vintage condition. Timegrapher: +30+35s/day, running strong and steady. Dial and Hands The silver dial features a striking vertical brushed finish that provides a dynamic backdrop for the applied block indices with their contrasting black inserts. At twelve o'clock, the signature rotating Rado anchor logo provides a touch of kinetic visual interest, balanced by a vibrant red date display positioned at three o'clock. The dial is patinated with scattered rust-colored spotting across its surface, giving the watch a distinct, aged character. The baton-style hands, also featuring black inserts, show visible oxidation and minor surface degradation on their metal portions. Case and Crystal The stainless steel cushion-shaped case displays honest vintage wear, featuring brushed top surfaces that transition into polished flanks. The case exhibits moderate scratches and small dings visible throughout, consistent with its age and use, while the edges remain reasonably defined despite showing signs of wear. A polished steel bezel ring is integrated into the case design, displaying minor wear and scratches that align with the rest of the case. The winding crown is signed with the Rado anchor logo and shows moderate surface wear and scratches. The flat acrylic crystal presents light surface scratches visible under direct lighting, with no major cracks or chips. Movement Inside beats the gold-tone automatic caliber AS 1902, clearly engraved with "RADO", "25 JEWELS", "SWISS", "911", and "906" alongside the caliber number. The movement displays surface scratches on the rotor and bridges, with some dirt and grime present in the recesses. The timegrapher records +30+35s/day. Performing well within expected vintage tolerances; running strong and steady. Strap The watch is fitted with its original signed stainless steel folded-link bracelet, maintaining the authentic period aesthetic. The clasp proudly bears the Rado name alongside the anchor logo. Showing original character with normal wear, the bracelet and clasp exhibit moderate scratches throughout the links. The bracelet will accommodate a maximum wrist size of 18cm. Condition Good vintage condition. This Rising Star exhibits honest wear consistent with its 1970s origins, including moderate scratches and small dings across the cushion case, bezel, and original signed bracelet. The vertically brushed silver dial displays a distinct patination characterized by scattered rust-colored spotting, while the hands show visible oxidation. The acrylic crystal bears light surface scratches. Supported by the recorded timegrapher result, the automatic movement is running strong and steady. Dimensions The watch measures 36 mm in diameter (excluding the crown). Remarks This Rado Rising Star appeals through its highly characteristic 1970s cushion case and original signed folded-link bracelet. The vertically brushed dial, accented by the red date wheel and rotating anchor logo, offers a distinct aesthetic for collectors of mid-century Swiss design. History During the 1970s, Rado established a strong reputation for distinctive case geometries and innovative material treatments, often characterized by the brand's signature rotating anchor logo on the dial. The Rising Star model represents a classic example of the era's design language, utilizing a robust cushion case and reliable Swiss automatic calibers like the AS 1902. This period of Rado's production remains highly regarded by collectors who appreciate expressive, period-correct aesthetics paired with dependable mechanical performance. Payment and Shipping Payment must be completed within 1–3 days after purchase. Your watch will be professionally and securely packaged, then shipped with tracking and insurance for your peace of mind. We use fast express shipping, with typical delivery within 1–4 business days, depending on the destination. Please note that vintage watches may show minor signs of wear, aging, or imperfections, which are considered normal for watches of this age. We kindly ask you to review all photos carefully before bidding. We photograph each watch from multiple angles to provide the most accurate representation possible, and the photos form an important part of the description. The timegrapher assessment if provided is seen as an indication of the movement’s condition under fully wound testing conditions. As with all vintage watches, results may vary in daily use. If you have any concerns regarding functionality or defects after delivery, please contact us within 3 days of receiving the watch so we can assist you. As with all used watches, water resistance is not guaranteed. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us after the auction ends. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-RSX-0028