Rado Marco Polo 11838 (1970-1979)

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This Rado Marco Polo is a striking example of 1970s design, defined by its bold tonneau case and a highly unusual vertical day and date display at six o'clock. A sought-after configuration for collectors of vintage Rado, this distinctive timepiece pairs a beautifully preserved silver sunburst dial with the brand's signature rotating anchor logo, delivering tremendous character and strong mechanical performance. Brand: Rado Model: Marco Polo Reference Number: 11838 Serial Number: G 140606624 Movement: Automatic, caliber 1906, 25 jewels Dial: Silver sunburst with vertical day and date display Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1970s Condition: Excellent vintage condition. Timegrapher: +5+9s/day, performing remarkably well. Dial and Hands The dial is distinctive and highly legible, featuring a brilliant silver sunburst finish that remains wonderfully clean with no significant spotting or damage. Applied faceted indices catch the light beautifully, while the unusual vertical day and date window at six o'clock provides a fantastic visual anchor to the layout. The signature rotating Rado anchor logo is present at nine o'clock. Original and matching baton hands feature black central stripes, complemented by a smooth sweep center seconds hand. Under magnification, minor oxidation is visible on the handset, adding a touch of authentic vintage character to the display. Case and Crystal The stainless steel tonneau case is in well-preserved vintage condition, retaining well-defined edges and attractive surface transitions. The brushed top surfaces contrast handsomely with the polished flanks. The case exhibits light surface scratches consistent with careful wear over the decades. The watch is fitted with its signed Rado crown, which displays good definition on the knurling and the anchor logo. A flat acrylic crystal protects the dial, remaining clear with only minor superficial scratches and no visible cracks or chips. Movement Inside beats the automatic caliber 1906, based on the reliable AS 1906 architecture, visible under the balance. The movement features a handsome gold-tone finish with clean plates and a signed rotor engraved with the Rado name, 25 jewels, and Swiss origin. Recording +5+9s/day on the timegrapher, the movement is exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. Strap The watch is paired with a period correct stainless steel mesh bracelet that suits the vintage aesthetic perfectly. It remains in clean condition with minimal deformation and will comfortably accommodate a wrist size up to 20 cm. Condition Excellent vintage condition. The watch presents beautifully on the wrist, with a remarkably clean dial and a sharp, well-preserved tonneau case that shows only light, careful wear. The acrylic crystal and handset show minor, age-appropriate signs of use, primarily visible under close inspection. Supported by excellent timegrapher results, the mechanical performance is remarkably strong. Dimensions The case measures 36 mm (excluding the crown). Remarks This Marco Polo stands out through its uncommon vertical day and date layout and excellent state of preservation. Combined with the robust AS 1906 base caliber and brilliant timekeeping performance, it offers a fantastic opportunity to acquire a highly distinctive and capable 1970s Rado. History During the 1970s, Rado established a formidable reputation for avant-garde case geometries, unconventional materials, and bold dial layouts. The Marco Polo line perfectly illustrates this era of creative freedom, often utilizing robust Swiss calibers housed in substantial, highly stylized cases. The vertical day and date configuration found on this particular model is a brilliant departure from standard watchmaking norms of the period, reflecting Rado's commitment to distinct visual identities. Powered by the dependable AS 1906 automatic movement family, these watches were built for daily reliability while making a definitive stylistic statement on the wrist. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-MPX-0005