Rado Matterhorn 70003333 (1970-1979)

Offered in this auction by Second Vintage The Rado Matterhorn stands as a distinctive example of 1970s Swiss design, combining a robust architectural form with the brand's signature eccentricities. Named after the most famous peak in the Alps, this timepiece features a substantial cushion case and the beloved rotating anchor logo, making it a desirable collector's piece for enthusiasts of vintage Rado horology. Brand: Rado Model: Matterhorn Reference Number: 70003333 Movement: Automatic, 30 Jewels Dial: Silver vertically brushed Case Size: 38 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: c. 1970s Condition: Good vintage condition. The watch presents an honest vintage aesthetic with visible wear to the case consistent with age, while the dial remains remarkably clean and attractive. Timegrapher testing indicates a rate of +53 to +60 seconds per day which demonstrates a functioning movement. Dial and Hands The dial features a sophisticated silver finish with a vertical brushed texture that catches the light beautifully. It is adorned with raised block indices and the iconic applied Rado rotating anchor logo at the 12 o'clock position which sits above the Rado name. A framed date window is positioned at 3 o'clock displaying the date in red. The straight baton-style hands are polished and feature central luminous inserts that have aged naturally. The text "MatterHorn" is crisp and legible at the 6 o'clock position. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case showcases a classic 1970s cushion shape with a bold presence. The upper surface of the case features a sunburst brushed finish while the sides are polished, creating a pleasing contrast. There are visible signs of wear including scratches and small dings along the bezel edge and case sides which attest to its history and use. The crown is original and signed with the Rado anchor symbol. The screw-down caseback prominently displays the Rado Seahorse medallion and water-sealed engravings along with the reference number 70003333. The crystal appears clear with no major obstructions to the dial visibility. Movement Powering this timepiece is a high-grade Swiss automatic movement signed Rado on the gold-plated rotor. The movement is engraved with "30 Jewels" and "Swiss" indicating a high jewel count for smooth operation. The mechanism is clean and the rotor spins freely. Strap The watch is fitted with a black leather strap featuring contrasting white stitching near the lugs. It is secured by a silver-tone pin buckle that complements the steel case. The leather is supple and presents a classic look that suits the vintage character of the watch perfectly. Condition This timepiece is in good vintage condition. The case shows general wear, surface scratches, and some marks on the edges typical of a watch from this era that has been enjoyed. The dial is the highlight of the watch, preserved in excellent condition with no visible staining or damage. The hands show normal patina. The movement is running and functional. Dimensions With a case diameter of 38 mm excluding the crown, this watch offers a substantial vintage size that wears prominently on the wrist due to the cushion case design. Remarks This Rado Matterhorn is a charming representative of the brand's golden era of design. The combination of the vertically brushed dial and the specific "Matterhorn" branding makes it a less common find compared to the standard Voyager or Green Horse models. It is a robust and stylish vintage daily wearer. History Rado has long been celebrated for its innovative use of materials and distinctive designs. In the 1960s and 1970s, the brand established a reputation for producing water-resistant and durable automatic watches often named after themes of nature, travel, or geography. The Matterhorn line pays tribute to the iconic Swiss mountain and reflects the sturdy and enduring nature of Rado engineering during this period. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-RMX-0014