Rado Caliber 2789-1 1661076 (1970-1979)

Now available at auction from Second Vintage This Rado represents a compelling expression of the brand's mid-century design ethos, combining robust construction with subtle, elegant details. The watch features a striking angular case design, typical of the era's transition towards more integrated and architectural forms. The silver sunburst dial, adorned with the iconic rotating anchor logo, captures the essence of Rado's innovative spirit. This piece is a testament to the enduring appeal of vintage Rado, offering a distinctive aesthetic that remains highly wearable and collectible today. Brand: Rado Reference Number: 1661076 Movement: Automatic Caliber 2789-1 Dial: Silver sunburst dial with applied indices, featuring the rotating Rado anchor logo and a vertical day-date window at 6 o'clock. The dial is exceptionally clean, showing minimal signs of age. Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1970s Condition: Excellent vintage condition with a remarkably clean dial and sharp case lines. Dial and Hands The dial is a captivating silver sunburst, radiating from the center and catching the light beautifully. It features applied, faceted baton indices with black central inserts, providing excellent legibility against the bright background. The iconic Rado anchor logo, set within a red circle at 12 o'clock, remains vibrant and rotates freely. A notable design element is the vertical day-date aperture positioned at 6 o'clock, framed in steel. The baton hands match the indices, complete with black inserts. The dial is in stunning condition, appearing virtually flawless under magnification, with crisp text and no visible spotting or discoloration. Case and Crystal The 35mm stainless steel case showcases a distinct, angular tonneau shape with a prominent flat bezel. The case retains sharp, factory-defined edges, particularly noticeable where the brushed top surfaces meet the polished flanks. The integrated lug design flows seamlessly into the original bracelet. The signed Rado crown is present and features the anchor logo. The caseback is adorned with the classic Rado seahorse medallion and bears the reference number 1661076. The case exhibits light, honest wear consistent with careful use, maintaining a strong and attractive profile. The crystal is clear, allowing an unobstructed view of the pristine dial. Movement Powering this timepiece is the automatic Rado Caliber 2789-1, a robust 25-jewel movement. The movement is finished in a rich gold tone, with the rotor featuring a distinctive crosshatch pattern and the Rado signature. Close inspection reveals the caliber markings "2789-1" clearly stamped near the balance wheel. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. The timegrapher results show an impressive -3 to -10 seconds per day with strong amplitude. Strap The watch is fitted with its original stainless steel bracelet featuring solid, flat links that complement the angular case design. The clasp is correctly signed with the Rado name and the anchor logo in relief. The bracelet shows light surface wear but remains structurally sound and visually cohesive with the watch head, accommodating a wrist size up to 19cm. Condition This Rado is in excellent vintage condition. The dial is exceptionally well-preserved, standing out as a highlight of the piece. The case retains its sharp architectural lines with only superficial marks from normal wear. The movement is clean and running with outstanding precision. Overall, this is a highly attractive and well-maintained example of vintage Rado design. Dimensions Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown) Wrist Size: 19 cm Remarks This watch combines Rado's signature design elements—the rotating anchor and unique case geometry—into a highly wearable package. The vertical day-date display adds a touch of unconventional charm, making it a standout piece for collectors of 1970s horology. History Rado has long been recognized for its pioneering use of materials and distinctive, often avant-garde, design language. During the 1970s, the brand experimented heavily with case shapes and dial layouts, moving away from traditional round watches. This era produced some of Rado's most recognizable and enduring models, characterized by their robust construction and unique visual identity, cementing the brand's reputation as a forward-thinking watchmaker. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-RXX-0004