Rado Deluxe 990 11861-1 (1970-1979)

Offered in this auction by Second Vintage This Rado Deluxe 990 is a quintessential example of 1970s design creativity, featuring a distinctive TV-shaped gold-plated case and a rare vertical day-date configuration. The watch combines the brand's reputation for robust engineering with an avant-garde aesthetic that has become highly collectible. The vertically brushed silver dial serves as a clean backdrop for the unique layout, while the iconic rotating Rado anchor logo adds a touch of mechanical charm to the face. With its bold presence and reliable Swiss automatic movement, this piece represents a fantastic entry point into vintage Rado collecting. Brand: Rado Model: Deluxe 990 Reference Number: 11861-1 Serial Number: 4671201 Movement: Automatic ETA 2788 Dial: Silver vertically brushed with vertical day-date Case Size: 34 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Gold Plated Production Year: c. 1970s Condition: Good vintage condition. Running within vintage tolerances which indicates a healthy movement. Dial and Hands The dial is in excellent preservation, featuring a striking vertical brushed silver finish that catches the light beautifully. A standout feature of this model is the vertical day-date window positioned at 6 o'clock, a layout specific to this era of design. The dial features applied gold block hour markers with black inlays, matched by gold baton hands also detailed with black for high legibility. At 12 o'clock sits the applied gold Rado logo with the signature rotating anchor on a purple background, which moves freely. The text "RADO," "990," and "DE LUXE" is crisp and intact. Case and Crystal The gold-plated case measures 34mm in width but wears larger on the wrist due to its square "TV-screen" profile. The case is in honest vintage condition, showing visible surface scratches and signs of wear throughout the plating consistent with its age and use. The edges retain their original definition. The crown is original and signed with the Rado anchor. The screw-down stainless steel caseback features the deeply engraved Rado Seahorse logo and water-sealed branding, with reference and serial numbers clearly legible. Movement Powering the watch is a Swiss-made automatic ETA 2788 movement containing 25 jewels. The gold-toned movement appears clean and well-maintained visually. It is currently running within vintage tolerances, offering reliable vintage performance. The rotor is signed by Rado, and the base plate bears the 2788 caliber stamp. Strap The watch is fitted with a vintage-style burgundy leather strap featuring contrasting yellow stitching and a gold-tone buckle. The strap complements the gold tones of the case and adds a warm, retro character to the overall presentation. Condition This timepiece is in good vintage condition. While the case shows expected surface wear and scratches typical of a gold-plated watch from this period, the dial remains in stunning condition, free from significant aging or spotting. The acrylic crystal is clear. The movement is functioning correctly with the day and date features operating as intended. Dimensions The case width is 34 mm excluding the crown. The lug-to-lug length and square profile provide a substantial wrist presence typical of 1970s geometric watch design. Remarks The vertical day-date display is a charming complication that sets this reference apart from standard layouts. Combined with the "TV" case shape, it embodies the funky and experimental nature of 70s horology. History Rado has long been celebrated for its innovative use of materials and distinctive designs. The 990 Deluxe series was part of Rado's premium lineup during the 1970s, showcasing the brand's move towards unique shapes and robust automatic movements. This era solidified Rado's status as a manufacturer that was not afraid to break away from traditional round case designs to create something truly modern for the time. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-RDX-0004