Rado Manchester 11006 (1970-1979)

Now available at auction from Second Vintage This Rado Manchester presents a distinctive faceted crystal configuration that interacts beautifully with the light, revealing a striking vertically brushed blue dial beneath. A sought-after design from the 1970s, this timepiece combines classic cushion case geometry with dynamic textures, offering a highly characterful and visually engaging aesthetic. Brand: Rado Model: Manchester Reference Number: 11006 Serial Number: 3773614 Movement: Automatic, caliber 2797, 25 jewels Dial: Vibrant blue with vertical brushing and rotating anchor logo Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Steel Production Year: 1970s Condition: Good vintage condition. Timegrapher: +30+35s/day, running strong and steady. Dial and Hands The striking and well-preserved dial features a vibrant blue finish with a dynamic vertical brushing texture. Applied faceted indices and the signature rotating Rado anchor logo add depth to the display, while the crisp printed text and vivid red date wheel at three o'clock provide excellent contrast. There is no significant staining, moisture damage, or spotting visible. The original baton hands feature central strips and show expected age-related patina, with visible oxidation on the metal surfaces and aged but intact luminous material. Case and Crystal The steel cushion-shaped case displays honest vintage wear while preserving its original geometry. The brushed front and polished flanks exhibit moderate surface scratches and handling marks consistent with age, yet the edges remain reasonably defined without severe rounding. An integrated brushed steel bezel area frames the dial, showing light scratches matching the rest of the case. The distinctive faceted crystal creates unique optical reflections and remains generally clear, displaying some minor surface scratches and edge wear but no severe chips or cracks. The watch is fitted with a crown signed with the Rado anchor logo, showing normal handling wear. Movement Powering the watch is a gold-tone finished automatic movement, caliber 2797. The rotor is cleanly signed Rado 25 Jewels. The caliber presents a generally clean appearance with minor signs of handling or age, and no severe corrosion or damage is visible. The timegrapher recorded +30+35s/day. Performing well within expected vintage tolerances; running strong and steady. Strap The watch is fitted with its original signed bracelet, featuring steel links with alternating brushed and polished finishes. The clasp is correctly signed with the Rado seahorse logo. This bracelet shows moderate stretch and surface scratches from normal use, accommodating a maximum wrist fit of 17.5cm. Condition Good vintage condition. The case retains its defined cushion shape while exhibiting moderate surface scratches and handling marks. The distinctive faceted crystal shows minor surface scratches and edge wear but remains highly legible. The dial is exceptionally well-preserved, contrasting with the visible oxidation and aged luminous material on the original hands. The original signed bracelet displays moderate stretch and normal wear. Dimensions The case measures 35 mm (excluding the crown). Remarks This Manchester model stands out through its highly attractive vertically brushed blue dial and the optical depth of its faceted crystal. Complete with its original signed crown and seahorse clasp, it is a charismatic and cohesive example of 1970s design. History During the 1970s, Rado established a strong reputation for experimental case shapes, textural dials, and distinctive visual elements like faceted crystals and the iconic rotating anchor logo. The Manchester model perfectly represents this era of bold and expressive design. By combining reliable Swiss automatic movements with striking external architecture, Rado created highly individual timepieces that continue to capture the attention of vintage watch enthusiasts today. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-MXX-0035