Rado - Daymaster - No reserve price - 11778/1 - Men - 1960-1969

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This Rado Daymaster 999 is a superb example of mid-century Swiss watchmaking, combining distinctive design elements with robust mechanical performance. Known for their innovative case designs and iconic rotating anchor logos, Rado created highly recognizable timepieces during this era. This particular Daymaster stands out with its beautifully preserved silver sunburst dial, sharp applied details, and a remarkable faceted caseback that collectors truly appreciate. It offers a commanding 37mm presence on the wrist, making it a highly wearable and stylish vintage choice. Brand: Rado Model: Daymaster Reference Number: 11778/1 Serial Number: G. 323804648 Movement: Automatic, 25 Jewels Dial: Silver sunburst with applied indices, exceptionally clean and well-preserved Case Size: 37 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: circa 1968 Condition: Excellent vintage condition with an outstanding dial Dial and Hands The watch features a striking silver sunburst dial that catches the light beautifully, providing a dynamic backdrop for the dial furniture. It is adorned with applied, faceted hour markers featuring black central inserts, which are perfectly matched by the faceted baton hands. At 12 o'clock sits Rado's signature rotating anchor logo set against a vibrant purple background. The lower half of the dial features the printed "daymaster" script above a bold, applied "999" emblem. A framed day and date aperture is positioned at 3 o'clock. The dial is in phenomenal condition, remaining exceptionally clean and crisp, devoid of the spotting, moisture damage, or discoloration often found in watches of this age. Case and Crystal The 37mm stainless steel case presents a classic profile with smoothly sweeping lugs that retain good definition and proportion. The case exhibits honest, light surface wear consistent with careful use over the decades, without any deep gouges or signs of heavy over-polishing. The reverse side reveals a spectacular multi-faceted screw-down caseback, centered by a crisp medallion featuring the Rado twin seahorses and "Water-Sealed" script. The reference and serial numbers remain deeply engraved and clearly legible on the faceted edges. The watch is fitted with a domed acrylic crystal that is clear and free of significant scratches, offering an unobstructed view of the pristine dial. Movement Inside beats a golden-finished Rado automatic caliber, featuring 25 jewels and a signed rotor. The movement presents cleanly in the macro photography, with components showing appropriate vintage character. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. The timegrapher results indicate a healthy performance of +15 to +20 seconds per day. Strap The watch is paired with a period-correct black leather strap featuring an embossed crocodile pattern and a stainless steel pin buckle, complementing the classic aesthetic of the timepiece. Condition This Rado Daymaster is in excellent vintage condition. The case retains strong lines and the highly detailed caseback is wonderfully preserved. The true highlight is the dial, which has survived in near-flawless condition, maintaining its factory sunburst finish and sharp text. This is a highly attractive and well-cared-for example. Dimensions Case Size: 37 mm (excluding the crown) Remarks Finding a vintage Rado Daymaster with such an immaculate dial and sharply defined caseback is a rare occurrence. The combination of the applied "999" logo, the signature rotating anchor, and the substantial 37mm case size makes this a highly desirable piece for enthusiasts of unique 1960s design. History Founded in 1917 in Lengnau, Switzerland, as Schlup & Co., the company began producing watches under the Rado name in the 1950s. Rado quickly distinguished itself through unconventional designs and a pioneering focus on durability and unique materials. The Daymaster line was part of Rado's robust offering of reliable, daily-wear automatic watches, often featuring the brand's iconic rotating anchor logo—a clever mechanical feature that indicated when the watch required service if it stopped spinning freely. Today, vintage Rado models are celebrated for their distinctive mid-century character and undeniable charm. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-RDX-0001