Rado - Serbia - No reserve price - 11056 - Men - 1970-1979

Now available at auction from Second Vintage This bold vintage timepiece exemplifies the striking and experimental design language that defined the Swiss watch industry during the 1970s. Combining a robust tonneau case with a deeply captivating green sunburst gradient dial, this Rado Serbia is a brilliant representation of the era's adventurous aesthetic. Powered by a reliable Swiss automatic caliber and paired with a slinky mesh bracelet, it offers a superb opportunity to acquire an expressive vintage watch with unmistakable character and honest history. Brand: Rado Model: Serbia Reference Number: 11056 Serial Number: 40572248 Movement: ETA caliber 2824 automatic, 25 jewels Dial: Green sunburst gradient dial featuring applied indices, showing visible surface spotting and age-related particulate matter. Case Size: 37 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless steel Production Year: 1970s Condition: Good vintage condition displaying honest vintage character and distinctive aging. Dial and Hands The watch features a vibrant green sunburst gradient dial, often referred to as a vignette or fumé finish, which radiates outward from a lighter center to deep, darkened edges. It is adorned with applied, faceted silver-tone hour indices, an applied Rado text logo, and the signature rotating anchor emblem set against a red background. The model name "SERBIA" and "SWISS MADE" are crisply printed in white. A framed date aperture at the three o'clock position displays the date via distinctive red typography. The dial exhibits visible scattered spotting, surface aging, and particulate matter beneath the crystal, predominantly located around the lower left quadrant and near the date window. The baton hands, featuring central black stripes alongside the slim sweep seconds hand, show heavy oxidation, plating loss, and dark pitting, offering a clear testament to the piece's unpolished vintage journey. Case and Crystal The 37 mm tonneau-shaped stainless steel case features a classic cushion profile with fully polished upper surfaces and flanks. The case retains its original, deeply grooved crown, which is clearly signed with the Rado anchor motif. The solid, screw-down stainless steel caseback is sharply stamped with the brand's iconic triple seahorse emblem, the "Water-Sealed" script, the 11056 reference, and the 40572248 serial number. The inner caseback is properly hallmarked by Rado Watch Co. and displays historical watchmaker service markings in blue ink. The prominently domed acrylic crystal presents with noticeable surface wear, including a long, curved scratch extending from the center toward the five o'clock position, along with minor edge crazing. The case exhibits moderate surface scratches, scuffs, and handling marks consistent with decades of regular wear, yet it maintains its strong structural geometry. Movement At the heart of this timepiece beats the highly dependable ETA caliber 2824 automatic movement, equipped with 25 jewels. Visual inspection reveals a striking rotor decorated with an engine-turned crosshatch pattern and gilt Rado engravings. The caliber designation 2824 and the number 306 are clearly stamped into the baseplate near the golden balance wheel. The movement presents cleanly with its ruby jewels vividly visible. Timegrapher results reflect current performance; the movement is running and operational, recording a deviation of -60 to -66 seconds per day. Strap The watch is fitted with a period correct stainless steel mesh bracelet that beautifully complements the chunky 1970s case silhouette. The bracelet utilizes a brushed, unsigned sliding fold-over clasp. The tight steel mesh remains supple and conforms comfortably to the wrist, accommodating a maximum wrist size of 19 cm. Condition This timepiece is presented in good vintage condition, carrying authentic, visible signs of a well-worn life. The unpolished stainless steel case shows honest surface scratches and daily wear marks throughout. The dial presents with noticeable, scattered spotting and age-marked texture, while the hands display significant, dark oxidation and pitting. The domed crystal carries visible scratches and surface marks. Despite these clear signs of age, the watch retains a highly attractive retro presence and strong mechanical integrity. Dimensions The case measures 37 mm in diameter, excluding the original signed crown. The accompanying mesh bracelet is easily adjustable and will accommodate a wrist size of up to 19 cm. Remarks This Rado Serbia perfectly captures the bold, statement-making design ethos of its decade. With its vivid color palette, heavy tonneau profile, and reliable Swiss automatic engine, it stands as a fantastic wearable artifact. The watch offers a distinct aesthetic for the vintage enthusiast who appreciates unpolished, honest condition and the robust charm of 1970s horology. History During the 1970s, Rado cemented its reputation as a pioneer of unconventional case shapes, vibrant dials, and innovative material uses. Models from this period were designed to break away from traditional mid-century restraint, embracing heavy steel cases and visually arresting gradients. The Serbia model is a fine example of this transformative era in Swiss watchmaking, blending the dependable performance of mass-produced automatic calibers with an unforgettable, avant-garde exterior that continues to charm collectors today. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD1P2Q2GV000