Rado - McKinley - No reserve price - 244700 - Men - 1970-1979

Presented for auction by Second Vintage Step back into an era of bold horological experimentation with this striking vintage Rado. During the dynamic period of the 1970s, Swiss manufacturers embraced substantial, avant-garde case shapes, and this timepiece stands as a prime example of that creative confidence. Combining robust stainless steel architecture with a highly refined dial, this watch offers collectors a substantial wrist presence without sacrificing mid-century elegance. Brand: Rado Model: McKinley Reference Number: 244700 Movement: Swiss automatic, twenty-five jewels, gilt finish Dial: Silver sunburst dial with applied faceted indices, presenting in exceptionally clean condition with minimal signs of aging Case Size: 40 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless steel Production Year: 1970s Condition: Excellent vintage condition, well-preserved case lines and a remarkably clean dial Dial and Hands The dial is a masterclass in mid-century texture and light play, featuring a brilliant silver sunburst finish that radiates from the center pinion. The hours are marked by applied faceted block indices, which feature polished and grooved surfaces that catch the light beautifully from every angle. At twelve o'clock, the iconic Rado rotating anchor logo sits proudly over a deep red background, adding a subtle touch of color. The distinctive serif McKinley typography is printed cleanly above six o'clock, featuring a unique geometric underline design. A date aperture at three o'clock displays striking red numerals, framed by a subtle printed border. The baton hands feature a black central stripe, complementing the visual weight of the indices perfectly. The dial is exceptionally clean, showing an even, attractive preservation with no significant spots, moisture marks, or print loss, maintaining a brilliant luster and presenting an outstanding face. Case and Crystal The impressive forty-millimeter stainless steel cushion case commands attention on the wrist, characterized by its massive proportions and dynamic geometry. The broad upper surfaces feature strong, factory-correct vertical brushing, contrasting beautifully with the high-polish chamfers and the polished case flanks. Honest signs of wear and light handling marks are visible on the polished surfaces, consistent with its vintage pedigree, while the overall architecture remains sharp and well-defined. The original Rado anchor-signed crown is present and neatly integrated into the case side. The watch is fitted with an acrylic crystal that sits slightly proud of the bezel, presenting clearly with minimal surface wear. Turning the watch over reveals a screw-down caseback displaying the deeply embossed Rado Water-Sealed seahorse medallion alongside the stamped reference number. Movement Inside beats a robust Swiss-made automatic movement, beautifully finished in a rich gilt tone. The rotor is proudly signed with the Rado name and anchor logo, sweeping over the twenty-five jewel mechanism. Close visual inspection reveals typical, age-consistent surface patina and light spotting on the gilt rotor and bridges, presenting an honest and attractive vintage aesthetic. Running in vintage operational condition. Maintains the authentic mechanical character of the era. Timegrapher readings indicate a performance of +42 to +45 seconds per day. Strap The watch is paired with a handsome black leather strap featuring contrasting white stitching, complementing the vintage aesthetic perfectly and securing comfortably to the wrist. Condition Excellent vintage condition. The timepiece is well-preserved, showcasing light handling marks and normal vintage wear on the case while retaining crisp case geometry and strong brushed finishes. The dial is nearly flawless, presenting a fresh, clean, and highly attractive appearance that serves as the centerpiece of this vintage Rado. Dimensions Case Size: 40 mm (excluding the crown). Remarks A fantastic example of Rado's bold 1970s design language, combining a massive steel case with an elegant, impeccably preserved dial. The McKinley remains a distinctive and highly collectible reference, offering incredible character and a substantial footprint for the vintage enthusiast. History Rado built its reputation in the mid-twentieth century by pushing the boundaries of case design, durability, and material innovation. During the late 1960s and 1970s, the brand released a series of bold, oversized models that captured the dynamic spirit of the era, moving away from traditional round cases into more expressive, geometric forms. The McKinley stands as a testament to this period of creative freedom, offering collectors a character-rich timepiece that perfectly balances robust engineering with refined, highly detailed dial aesthetics. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-MXX-0005