Rado - Holbein - No reserve price - 11890 - Men - 1970-1979

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This Rado Holbein perfectly captures the adventurous and architectural design language of the 1970s, pairing a dynamic cushion case with a truly mesmerizing gradient dial. Rado has long been celebrated for its distinctive mid-century aesthetics, and this piece exemplifies that legacy with its intricate faceted dial furniture and signature rotating anchor logo. It is a striking, highly wearable vintage piece that offers a robust automatic movement alongside unparalleled wrist presence. Brand: Rado Model: Holbein Reference Number: 11890 Serial Number: 42180180 Movement: Automatic ETA 2824 Dial: Gradient sunburst gold dial with applied faceted indices, exceptionally clean condition Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1970s Condition: Good vintage condition with a remarkably preserved dial and honest case wear Dial and Hands The centerpiece of this watch is its spectacular gradient sunburst dial, which transitions smoothly from a bright golden center to a deep, rich olive-brown at the edges. The dial features striking applied block indices that are deeply faceted and finished with a distinct ridged texture, catching the light beautifully from multiple angles. Matching baton hands echo this ridged central texturing, paired with a simple sweep seconds hand. At 12 o'clock sits the iconic applied Rado anchor logo against a vibrant red background, while the 3 o'clock position features a framed date aperture displaying a striking red roulette-style date wheel. The dial is in stunning, vintage condition, remaining entirely clean and free of visible spotting, staining, or moisture damage. All printed text, including the serif "Holbein" and "SWISS MADE" at 6 o'clock, remains perfectly crisp and fully intact. Case and Crystal The 35 mm stainless steel cushion case showcases a sharp transition between the vertically brushed upper surfaces and the steeply sloped, polished flanks. The case displays honest signs of vintage wear, including scattered surface scratches, light scuffs, and minor nicks along the polished edges and bezel, indicative of regular use but retaining solid overall definition. The distinct Rado anchor logo is proudly signed on the crown. Turning the watch over reveals a screw-down caseback deeply embossed with the Rado Water-Sealed seahorse medallion, alongside sharp, fully legible serial and reference numbers. The domed crystal exhibits minor superficial scuffs consistent with typical wear, but remains clear and highly transparent, allowing an unobstructed view of the pristine dial beneath. Movement Powering this Holbein is the reliable automatic ETA Caliber 2824. The movement is beautifully detailed, featuring a decorated rotor stamped in gold lettering with "RADO" and "25 JEWELS." A close visual inspection reveals a clean movement with the ETA shield and 2824 caliber designation clearly visible beneath the balance wheel. Running and operational, offering reliable vintage performance with a recorded deviation of -26 to -30 seconds per day. Strap The watch is fitted with a versatile black textured two-piece strap featuring contrasting white edge stitching and a classic stainless steel tang buckle. The strap configuration is well-suited for a smaller wrist profile and complements the bold vintage aesthetic of the watch perfectly. Condition This Rado is presented in good vintage condition. The dial is exceptionally well-preserved and stands out as the highlight of the piece, showing virtually no flaws. The stainless steel case exhibits normal, honest wear with visible scratches and small dings throughout its brushed and polished surfaces, remaining unpolished in its appearance. The caseback engravings are deep and crisp. The movement is clean, fully operational, and performing within acceptable vintage parameters. Dimensions The case measures 35 mm in diameter, excluding the signed crown. Remarks Vintage Rado timepieces from this era are highly regarded for their uncompromised design choices, and the Holbein is no exception. The combination of the rich fumé dial, the deeply textured indices, and the bold red date wheel creates a visual depth that is incredibly appealing. It is a fantastic collector's piece for those who appreciate the bold character of 1970s horology. History Founded in Lengnau, Switzerland, Rado initially operated as the Schlup & Co. watchmaking factory before launching its own brand name in the 1950s. The brand quickly established a reputation for avant-garde design and the pioneering use of scratch-resistant materials. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Rado released a wide array of vividly colored and uniquely shaped models, distinguished by the iconic moving anchor logo. The Holbein represents this creative golden era, utilizing robust ETA mechanics encased in a bold, uniquely Rado exterior. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-RHX-0001