Rado - Manhattan - No reserve price - 11914 - Men - 1970-1979

Available now on auction by Second Vintage The Rado Manhattan is one of the most distinctive and recognizable designs from the late 1960s and 1970s, celebrated for its bold architectural aesthetic and oversized presence. This specific example captures the essence of that funky era with its massive rectangular case and unique "skyline" hour markers. A true statement piece that wears larger than its dimensions suggest, it offers a wonderful glimpse into the daring avant-garde design language of vintage Rado. Brand: Rado Model: Manhattan Reference Number: 11914 Movement: Automatic Dial: Silver vertically brushed with block indices Case Size: 38 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: c. 1970s Condition: Good vintage condition with visible patina on the dial, showing honest signs of age while retaining its bold architectural charm. Dial and Hands The dial features a vertical brushed silver finish that has developed a consistent, spotted patina and foxing throughout, characteristic of genuine vintage age. The dial is adorned with towering, applied block hour markers that give the watch its "Manhattan" skyline nickname. The signature rotating Rado anchor logo on a red background is present at 12 o'clock, while a day-date window is positioned at 3 o'clock. The baton hands feature black inlays and show normal signs of aging. Case and Crystal The massive stainless steel case is in well-preserved condition, retaining its distinctive rectangular geometry and sharp lines. Surface scratches and marks from wear are visible on the polished sides and brushed upper surfaces, consistent with an unpolished vintage piece. The original signed crown is present. The acrylic crystal is rectangular with a box profile and shows visible scratches and signs of use. The caseback features the detailed "Super Sealed" engraving with the triple seahorse logo, which remains crisp and legible. Movement The automatic movement is running and functioning. Timegrapher testing shows the watch running between +25 and +30 seconds per day, which indicates reliable vintage performance for a mechanical watch of this era. Strap The watch is fitted with its original Rado stainless steel bracelet in the classic NSA style. The bracelet features a signed folding clasp with a spring-loaded extension mechanism. It fits a wrist size of approximately 18 cm. Condition This timepiece is in good vintage condition. It shows honest wear commensurate with its age, particularly evident in the spotting on the dial and surface scratches on the case and crystal. The watch remains structurally sound and retains all its original character, presenting as a genuine, charismatic survivor from the 1970s. Dimensions Case width: 38 mm (excluding crown) Case material: Stainless Steel Remarks The Rado Manhattan is a cult classic among vintage collectors due to its unconventional shape and robust construction. This example, with its vertically brushed dial and specific reference 11914, represents the "Super Sealed" line which was marketed for its water resistance innovation at the time. The dial's heavy patina gives this specific watch a unique "wabi-sabi" appeal that many collectors seek out for its authentic vintage look. History Rado, founded in 1917 as Schlup & Co., began selling watches under the Rado brand in the 1950s. By the 1960s, they established themselves as pioneers in materials and design, moving away from traditional round cases to embrace bold, geometric shapes. The Manhattan model was introduced in the mid-1960s and became a bestseller, symbolizing the urban, modernist spirit of the time. It remains a testament to Rado's commitment to durability and distinctive design. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-RMX-0003