Rado - Esel - No reserve price - 42020688 - Men - 1970-1979

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This Rado Esel is a striking example of 1970s watch design, embodying the era's adventurous approach to case geometry and dial execution. With its distinctive cushion-shaped case and a deeply captivating gradient dial, this timepiece offers a compelling blend of robust stainless steel construction and refined visual detailing. The presence of the iconic rotating anchor logo and the integrated-style bracelet further cement its status as a quintessential piece of vintage Rado heritage, ready to be enjoyed by the modern collector. Brand: Rado Model: Esel Reference Number: 42020688 Movement: Automatic Dial: Gradient grey to brown dial with applied faceted indices and rotating anchor logo; well-preserved condition Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless steel Production Year: 1970s Condition: Good vintage condition with honest wear and a beautifully preserved dial Dial and Hands The dial of this Rado Esel is a visual standout, featuring a striking gradient effect that transitions from a lighter, silvery-grey at the center to a deep, rich brown at the outer edges. This sunburst finish is exceptionally well-preserved, showing no visible spotting, moisture damage, or significant degradation. The dial is adorned with applied, faceted, rectangular hour markers that catch the light dynamically, complemented by the applied "RADO" text and the signature red rotating anchor logo positioned at twelve o'clock. The printed text, including "ESEL" and "-SWISS MADE-", remains crisp and fully legible. A framed date window sits cleanly at the three o'clock position, displaying a red numeral. The faceted baton hands, complete with central black striping and luminous material, exhibit age-appropriate aging but remain structurally sound and visually cohesive with the dial's overall aesthetic. Case and Crystal The 35mm stainless steel case features a distinct cushion or tonneau shape, characteristic of 1970s design language. The case exhibits a combination of brushed and polished surfaces, with the wide, sloping bezel area showing a high-polish finish that contrasts effectively with the brushed finish on the hooded lugs. The case shows honest signs of vintage wear, including surface scratches and handling marks consistent with regular use over the decades, but retains its overall structural integrity without heavy over-polishing. The faceted crystal, a notable design element, adds depth and geometric intrigue to the watch face. It appears clear, though minor surface wear is to be expected. The original Rado-signed crown is present and functional. The screw-down caseback is deeply engraved with the Rado seahorse medallion and "Water-Sealed" text, alongside the reference number 42020688, remaining sharp and clearly legible. Movement Powering this timepiece is a Swiss-made automatic movement, clearly marked with "RADO" and "25 JEWELS" on the rotor. The close-up images reveal the caliber stamping "2824" near the balance wheel, identifying it as an ETA-based movement known for its reliability. The movement appears visually clean, with the perlage finishing on the mainplate and the engine-turned pattern on the rotor well-defined. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece, the timegrapher results show +8s to +11s/day with strong amplitude. Strap The watch is fitted with the original stainless steel bracelet that perfectly complements the case's integrated styling. The bracelet features flat, brushed links that articulate smoothly. The folding clasp is prominently stamped with the Rado name and anchor logo, indicating it is an authentic Rado component. The bracelet shows moderate wear and stretch typical of its age but remains highly wearable and secure. It accommodates a wrist size of up to 19cm. Condition This Rado Esel is presented in good vintage condition. The case shows normal, honest wear with surface scratches and minor nicks, retaining its distinctive 1970s profile. The gradient dial is stunningly preserved, free from significant flaws, and the faceted crystal remains an attractive feature. The movement is running strongly, and the accompanying Rado-signed bracelet completes the authentic vintage package. Dimensions Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown) Wrist Size: 19 cm Remarks This watch represents a fantastic opportunity to acquire a well-preserved, characterful vintage Rado. Its combination of a faceted crystal, a mesmerizing gradient dial, and a robust ETA-based automatic movement makes it a versatile and visually engaging addition to any collection. History Rado has long been recognized for its innovative use of materials and bold design choices, particularly during the 1960s and 1970s. The brand carved a unique niche by blending robust tool-watch capabilities with avant-garde aesthetics, often utilizing faceted crystals, unconventional case shapes, and the signature rotating anchor logo to signify an automatic movement. The Esel model is a testament to this era, showcasing Rado's commitment to creating distinctive, high-quality timepieces that stood out from the traditional Swiss watchmaking norms of the time. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-REX-0004