Rado - Voyager - No reserve price - 11814 - Men - 1970-1979

Now available at auction from Second Vintage This Rado Voyager perfectly encapsulates the daring and architectural design language of the 1970s. During this era, Rado distinguished itself through bold case shapes and distinct dial layouts, moving away from traditional forms to create timepieces with undeniable wrist presence. This specific example stands out with its striking vertical day-date configuration and the iconic rotating anchor logo, offering collectors a highly wearable and visually captivating piece of mid-century Swiss watchmaking. Brand: Rado Model: Voyager Reference Number: 11814 Serial Number: 43110962 Movement: 25 Jewels Swiss Automatic Dial: Silver sunburst dial with applied indices and vertical day-date display, exceptionally clean condition Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1970s Condition: Excellent vintage condition with crisp case lines and a highly preserved dial Dial and Hands The dial is a masterclass in 1970s design, featuring a brilliant silver sunburst finish that catches the light beautifully across its surface. At the twelve o'clock position sits the signature applied Rado anchor logo set against a deep red circular background. The six o'clock position hosts a highly distinctive vertical day-date window, framed by a prominent, faceted metallic border that adds immense depth to the dial architecture. The applied hour markers are sharply faceted and feature bold black central stripes, perfectly mirrored by the matching black-striped baton hands. A sweeping center seconds hand completes the display. Carefully inspecting the dial reveals an exceptionally clean surface, free from moisture stains, significant spotting, or print loss, presenting a vibrant and highly attractive vintage face. Case and Crystal The 36 mm stainless steel cushion case exemplifies the robust styling of its era. The upper case surfaces display a strong, factory-style vertical brushing that creates a striking visual contrast against the brightly polished case flanks. The transition between these brushed and polished surfaces remains well-defined, indicating careful ownership. The watch features its correct Rado-signed crown bearing the anchor motif. Turning the watch over reveals a screw-down caseback proudly stamped with the Rado Water-Sealed dual seahorse emblem, alongside clear reference and serial numbers. The case shows honest, age-consistent handling marks and superficial wear, but retains its strong structural integrity and sharp profile. A clear crystal protects the dial, offering an unobstructed view of the pristine display beneath. Movement Powering this Voyager is a robust gold-tone Swiss automatic movement, operating on 25 jewels. The rotor is cleanly signed with the Rado name, and the movement plates display an attractive brushed finish. Visual inspection shows a clean and well-maintained caliber, characteristic of dependable ETA-based Rado movements from this period. Running in vintage operational condition. Maintains the authentic mechanical character of the era. The timegrapher indicates a rate of +40 to +47 seconds per day. Strap The watch is fitted with its original stainless steel bracelet, featuring a highly distinctive and intricate textured link pattern that perfectly complements the cushion case. The fold-over clasp is prominently adorned with the Rado seahorse logo in deep relief, confirming its authenticity. The bracelet is sized to accommodate a wrist up to 19 cm, making it versatile for a variety of collectors. Condition This timepiece is presented in excellent vintage condition. The dial is the clear highlight, remaining incredibly fresh and free of the degradation often found in watches of this age. The case and bracelet exhibit normal, honest vintage wear with light surface scratches, but no deep gouges or structural damage. The overall presentation is that of a lovingly preserved, highly original vintage Rado. Dimensions Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Wrist Size: 19 cm Remarks With its brilliant sunburst dial, unusual vertical calendar display, and original textured bracelet, this Voyager represents the very best of Rado's imaginative 1970s catalog. It is a fantastic opportunity to acquire a timepiece that offers both robust mechanical reliability and an aesthetic that immediately commands attention. History Founded in Lengnau, Switzerland, Rado built its reputation on producing watches that defied convention. By the 1960s and 1970s, the brand became synonymous with unconventional case shapes, innovative materials, and signature elements like the rotating anchor logo. The Voyager line was introduced as a versatile, everyday companion for the modern traveler, combining dependable automatic movements with striking designs that stood out in a crowded Swiss watch market. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-RVX-0013