Rado Lauberhorn K343244 (1970-1979)

Now available at auction from Second Vintage This uncommon Rado Lauberhorn presents a highly distinctive aesthetic, defined by a heavily patinated, crystallized dial that gives the watch an entirely unique character. Fitted with its original signed stainless steel bracelet and retaining its signed anchor crown, this sought-after 1970s model delivers striking vintage presence backed by robust mechanical performance. Brand: Rado Model: Lauberhorn Reference Number: K343244 Movement: Automatic, ETA Caliber 2824, 25 Jewels Dial: Heavily patinated with a crystallized texture, applied indices, and red date numerals Case Size: 38 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1970s Condition: Good vintage condition. Timegrapher: -12-15s/day, performing remarkably well. Dial and Hands The dial exhibits heavy surface degradation and crystallization across its entirety, resulting in a unique textured appearance and a heavily patinated character. Despite this surface condition, the printed text remains legible, and the applied Rado anchor logo is fully intact. The applied indices feature aging lume strips, while the date window displays distinctive red numerals. The baton hands show visible oxidation and dirt, with aged and darkened lume fill that matches the heavy patina of the dial. The sweeping seconds hand also displays surface wear, completing the cohesive, aged aesthetic of the watch face. Case and Crystal The stainless steel tonneau case is a well-preserved vintage example with honest wear. Both brushed and polished finishes remain visible across the geometry. The case shows light surface scratches consistent with normal wear over the decades, with no major dents or deep dings. The watch retains its crown, which is clearly signed with the Rado anchor logo and features well-defined knurling. The flat crystal is generally clear, showing some light surface scratches visible under certain lighting angles. Movement Powering the watch is a Swiss-made automatic movement, stamped with Caliber 2824 on the base plate. The movement features a signed rotor and 25 jewels, appearing generally clean with no obvious heavy corrosion. The timegrapher records a rate of -12-15s/day. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. Strap The watch is fitted with its original signed stainless steel folded link bracelet, which remains in good wearable condition. The clasp is clearly signed RADO. The bracelet shows normal surface scratches and wear consistent with its age, and it will accommodate a maximum wrist size of 18 cm. Condition Good vintage condition. The stainless steel case displays honest age-related wear and light scratches, while maintaining its original brushed and polished finishes. The dial and hands are heavily patinated, showing distinct crystallization, oxidation, and darkened lume that give the watch a highly individualized character. The original signed bracelet is well-preserved for its age. Supported by the recorded timegrapher result, the movement is performing very strongly. Dimensions The case measures 38 mm in diameter (excluding the crown). Remarks This Lauberhorn stands out through its incredible dial texture, the result of decades of heavy natural crystallization. Complete with its original signed bracelet and crown, it offers collectors an uncommon model with an aesthetic that cannot be replicated. History The Rado Lauberhorn belongs to a specific series of Alpine-themed models released by the brand during the 1970s, specifically between 1972 and 1978. Named after the famous Swiss ski race, the Lauberhorn is an uncommon find today. Production numbers for these specific Alpine models were relatively limited, with estimated ranges of 500 to 5,000 units per model, making surviving examples particularly interesting to vintage enthusiasts. Payment and Shipping Payment must be completed within 1–3 days after purchase. Your watch will be professionally and securely packaged, then shipped with tracking and insurance for your peace of mind. We use fast express shipping, with typical delivery within 1–4 business days, depending on the destination. Please note that vintage watches may show minor signs of wear, aging, or imperfections, which are considered normal for watches of this age. We kindly ask you to review all photos carefully before bidding. We photograph each watch from multiple angles to provide the most accurate representation possible, and the photos form an important part of the description. The timegrapher assessment if provided is seen as an indication of the movement’s condition under fully wound testing conditions. As with all vintage watches, results may vary in daily use. If you have any concerns regarding functionality or defects after delivery, please contact us within 3 days of receiving the watch so we can assist you. As with all used watches, water resistance is not guaranteed. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us after the auction ends. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-LAK-0001