Rado Brienzer 11726 (1970-1979)

Offered in this auction by Second Vintage Discover a truly distinctive piece of 1970s design with this Rado Brienzer, a timepiece that perfectly encapsulates the brand's reputation for avant-garde styling and unique dial executions. The "Brienzer" is a scarce model named after the Swiss town of Brienz, and this specific example features a mesmerizing dial that sets it apart from typical vintage offerings. With its sturdy stainless steel construction, iconic rotating anchor logo, and reliable automatic movement, this watch is not just a timekeeper but a conversation starter on the wrist. Brand: Rado Model: Brienzer Reference Number: 11726 Serial Number: 3243147 Movement: Automatic Dial: Blue with gold stardust effect Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: c. 1970s Condition: Good vintage condition Dial and Hands The highlight of this timepiece is undoubtedly the dial. It features a deep blue base adorned with a striking horizontal band of gold-tone speckling, creating a "stardust" or "galaxy" effect that catches the light beautifully. The dial is fitted with applied silver baton hour markers and the signature Rado rotating anchor logo on a red background at the 12 o'clock position, which moves freely. A framed date window is positioned at 3 o'clock. The silver baton hands are original and provide excellent contrast against the textured background. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case features a tonneau-shaped design typical of the 1970s, measuring 35mm in diameter. The case retains its original lines but shows visible surface scratches and signs of wear throughout, consistent with an honest vintage life. The crown is original and signed with the Rado anchor symbol. The screw-down caseback prominently features the famous Rado "Water-Sealed" Seahorse medallion, with the reference and serial numbers clearly visible. The crystal shows some signs of aging but remains clear enough to enjoy the unique dial. Movement Powering the watch is a Rado-signed automatic movement, based on a robust ETA caliber typical of this era. The rotor is finished with Geneva stripes and signed "Rado 25 Jewels." The movement is running within vintage tolerances, with a timegrapher reading of -8s to -17s/day, which indicates healthy movement offering reliable vintage performance. Strap The watch is fitted with its original stainless steel block-link bracelet, which integrates smoothly with the case design. The clasp is signed with the Rado logo. The bracelet shows surface wear and scratches consistent with the case. It is sized to fit a wrist circumference of approximately 17.5cm. Condition This timepiece is in good vintage condition. It presents an honest, unpolished aesthetic with visible wear, scratches, and handling marks on the case, bezel, and bracelet. The dial remains in very attractive condition, preserving the unique gold dust texture without significant deterioration. The movement is clean and functioning correctly. Dimensions The case measures 35mm in diameter excluding the crown. Due to the tonneau case shape and integrated bracelet design, it offers a substantial presence on the wrist that wears slightly larger than the dimensions suggest. Remarks The Rado Brienzer is a relatively uncommon model in the Rado vintage lineup, making this a desirable find for collectors. The specific dial variation found here, with its artistic application of gold texture over blue, showcases the experimental freedom Rado exercised during the 1970s. It is a charming example of Swiss watchmaking creativity. History Rado, founded in Lengnau, Switzerland, has long been recognized as a pioneer in materials and design. In the mid-20th century, the brand established itself with models like the Captain Cook and the Manhattan. The 1970s were a particularly creative period for the brand, where they moved away from traditional round cases to embrace geometric shapes and unconventional dial finishes, a legacy that this Brienzer proudly represents. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-RBX-0004