Rado - Mannheim - No reserve price - G1006357 - Men - 1970-1979

Presented for auction by Second Vintage The 1970s was a golden era for Rado, characterized by bold case designs, innovative materials, and highly distinctive dials that set the brand apart from traditional Swiss watchmakers. The Mannheim model perfectly encapsulates this adventurous spirit, offering a robust cushion case paired with an incredibly refined and detail-rich dial. Timepieces from this period of Rado's history are highly sought after by collectors who appreciate unconventional aesthetics combined with reliable mechanical performance, making this beautifully preserved example a standout addition to any vintage portfolio. Brand: Rado Model: Mannheim Reference Number: G1006357 Serial Number: Movement: Automatic Caliber 2783 Dial: Grey sunburst with applied faceted indices and rotating anchor logo, remarkably clean and well-preserved Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1970s Condition: Excellent vintage condition with a stunningly preserved dial and honest case wear Dial and Hands The dial is a masterclass in vintage texture and typography, featuring a brilliant grey sunburst finish that radiates dynamically under varying light conditions. It is adorned with prominent applied faceted steel indices, each detailed with subtle luminous plots at their outer edges. The visual hierarchy is anchored by the iconic applied Rado logo with its signature rotating anchor set against a purple-red background at twelve o'clock, perfectly balanced by an applied gold-tone "M" and elegant white script spelling "Mannheim" at six o'clock. A crisp date aperture at three o'clock displays striking red numerals, adding a welcome touch of color. The dial is in stunning vintage condition, remaining exceptionally clean with no visible moisture damage, staining, or print loss. The polished steel baton hands feature thin luminous strips that have aged evenly, showing only faint, localized oxidation visible under high magnification that perfectly authenticates the genuine vintage nature of the watch. Case and Crystal The 36 mm cushion-shaped stainless steel case exemplifies the architectural design language of the era. It features a beautifully preserved horizontal brushing on its broad upper surfaces, which transitions sharply into highly polished flanks. The lug profile remains thick and well-defined, indicating respectful wear over the decades. The watch retains its original Rado signed crown, clearly stamped with the anchor emblem. Protecting the dial is an acrylic crystal that provides a warm, period-correct distortion at the extreme edges. The screw-down caseback is deeply engraved with the Rado Water-Sealed seahorse medallion, stars, and the reference number G1006357. The case is in good vintage condition, displaying honest, superficial surface scratches and minor handling marks consistent with regular, careful use, without any deep gouges or signs of heavy over-polishing. Movement Powering this Mannheim is a beautifully finished, gold-plated automatic movement featuring a Rado signed rotor denoting 25 jewels. Close inspection under the balance wheel clearly reveals the ETA caliber 2783 stamp, a highly regarded and robust workhorse movement of the period. The movement components present beautifully, with clean bridges and a well-preserved engine-turned finish on the rotor. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. The timegrapher results indicate a precise deviation of 5 to 9 seconds per day with strong amplitude. Strap The watch is fitted to its original stainless steel mesh bracelet that drapes exceptionally well on the wrist. The bracelet is secured by an original Rado signed sliding clasp, clearly stamped with the brand name and the distinctive anchor logo. The mesh is in excellent condition, free from kinks, fraying, or structural damage, perfectly complementing the metallic tones of the case and dial. Condition This timepiece is presented in excellent vintage condition. The dial stands out as the absolute highlight, remaining incredibly crisp, vibrant, and free of the spotting or degradation often found in watches of this age. The case retains strong factory lines and honest, unpolished characteristics with normal surface wear. The hands and indices maintain a brilliant luster, and the original signed components confirm the watch's highly original state of preservation. Dimensions The stainless steel case measures 36 mm in diameter, excluding the original signed crown. The accompanying stainless steel mesh bracelet is easily adjustable and accommodates a wrist size of up to 19.5 cm, providing a versatile and comfortable fit for a wide range of collectors. Remarks Finding a Rado Mannheim in such mechanically and cosmetically sound condition is increasingly uncommon. The combination of the dynamic grey sunburst dial, the applied gold-tone logo, and the sharp cushion case creates a visually arresting presence on the wrist. It is a highly charismatic timepiece that offers both robust daily wearability and serious vintage charm. History Founded in Lengnau, Switzerland, Rado initially operated as the Schlup & Co. watchmaking factory before launching its own brand in the 1950s. By the 1970s, Rado had established a global reputation for producing watches that defied convention, utilizing scratch-resistant materials and avant-garde case shapes. Models like the Mannheim were part of a broader strategy to create distinct, memorable timepieces that appealed to an emerging class of modern, style-conscious consumers, cementing Rado's legacy as a true pioneer of mid-century watch design. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-RMG-0001