Rado - Lauberhorn - No reserve price - K341297 - Men - 1970-1979

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This bold 1970s timepiece captures the adventurous spirit and robust design language of a defining era in Swiss watchmaking. Named after the legendary Swiss ski race, this model combines a commanding tonneau case with a highly reliable automatic caliber. What truly sets this specific example apart is its extraordinary aging process, offering a completely unique, heavily patinated aesthetic that transforms the watch into a singular piece of vintage art. Brand: Rado Model: Lauberhorn Reference Number: K341297 Movement: Automatic, ETA Caliber 2824 Dial: Blue dial with heavy golden stardust patina, applied faceted indices, and red date display Case Size: 38 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless steel Production Year: 1970s Condition: Good vintage condition, presenting honest exterior wear and a beautiful highly patinated dial Dial and Hands The dial of this timepiece is a captivating study in vintage aging, having developed a heavy, uniform golden stardust patina across its dark blue base. This even speckling completely transforms the visual character of the watch, offering a highly textured appearance without presenting localized moisture damage or structural degradation. The dial features applied silver-tone faceted indices with painted central strips, complemented by the applied Rado anchor logo with its signature red background at the twelve o'clock position. Elegant serif typography spells out the model name, while a framed date aperture at three o'clock displays a striking red numeral. The baton hands, featuring white central strips, show light, even aging that perfectly matches the overall aesthetic of the dial. Case and Crystal Encased in a robust 38 mm stainless steel tonneau profile, the watch exemplifies the bold architectural styling of the 1970s. The upper surface retains a brushed finish that transitions sharply into highly polished case flanks. The case is in good vintage condition, displaying honest signs of wear, including visible surface scratches, scuffs, and handling marks across the brushed bezel and polished sides. Despite these age-consistent marks, the lug profile and factory transitions remain well-defined. The original Rado-signed crown is positioned at three o'clock. The screw-down stainless steel caseback is deeply stamped with the iconic Rado Water Sealed seahorse medallion and the reference designation. The watch is fitted with a flat crystal featuring a beveled edge, which presents clearly while showing minor surface wear under close inspection. Movement Powering this timepiece is a Swiss-made automatic movement, clearly stamped with the ETA caliber 2824 beneath the balance wheel. The mechanism features 25 jewels and is equipped with a custom rotor elegantly engraved with the brand name and jewel count in gold-tone lettering. The movement is visually clean, with the brushed and perlage finishes presenting beautifully. Performing well within expected vintage tolerances; running strong and steady. Timegrapher results indicate a performance of -18 to -22 s/d. Strap The watch is paired with a period-correct black leather strap, distinguished by prominent beige cross-stitching that enhances its sporty vintage appeal. The strap is supple, shows minimal signs of use, and is secured by a classic polished stainless steel pin buckle. Condition This watch is presented in good vintage condition. The primary focal point is the dial, which exhibits a stunning, evenly distributed stardust patina that collectors of unique vintage pieces will highly appreciate. The stainless steel case shows clear, honest wear with visible scratches and scuffs that are entirely consistent with decades of regular use, yet it maintains its strong structural presence. The movement remains clean and fully operational, making this a handsome and character-rich survivor. Dimensions The stainless steel case measures 38 mm in width, excluding the crown. The tonneau shape provides a substantial and commanding presence on the wrist, characteristic of the era's bold design language. Remarks Offering a perfect blend of robust 1970s design and unique organic aging, this timepiece stands out in any collection. The spectacular stardust dial ensures that no two examples will ever look exactly alike, providing the new owner with a truly one-of-a-kind vintage wearing experience. History Rado has established a formidable reputation for producing incredibly durable and stylistically avant-garde timepieces. The Lauberhorn model, named in honor of the famous and grueling Swiss downhill ski race, embodies the brand's dedication to creating resilient sports watches. Utilizing heavy, uniquely shaped steel cases and reliable ETA-based automatic calibers, watches from this lineage were built to endure active lifestyles while maintaining a distinctive, space-age aesthetic that defined the golden era of experimental watch design. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-RLK-0009