Presented for auction by Second Vintage This Rado Marco Polo captures the adventurous design spirit of the 1970s, a period when the Swiss brand boldly experimented with distinctive case geometries and evocative naming conventions. Boasting a robust cushion-shaped profile and Rado’s signature rotating anchor emblem, this timepiece represents a compelling era of mid-century watchmaking. With its reliable automatic caliber and undeniable vintage character, this Marco Polo offers collectors a chance to acquire an authentic, character-rich piece of Rado’s storied heritage. Brand: Rado Model: Marco Polo Reference Number: 11836 Serial Number: 343642642 Movement: Automatic, ETA Caliber 2772, 25 Jewels Dial: Silver sunburst dial with applied faceted indices, exhibiting visible perimeter staining and age-related wear. Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: Circa 1973 Condition: Good vintage condition with honest wear and visible dial patina. Dial and Hands The silver dial features a classic sunburst finish that radiates from the center, providing a dynamic backdrop for the applied metallic furniture. Time is indicated by applied faceted indices, with prominent rectangular blocks at the twelve, six, and nine o'clock positions, and circular faceted markers elsewhere. The dial is distinguished by the iconic applied Rado rotating anchor logo set against a red background at nine o'clock, alongside a cleanly framed date aperture at three o'clock. The typography includes a crisp serif Rado logo and a sharp sans-serif Marco Polo designation. Carefully assessing the dial reveals significant perimeter aging and moisture-related staining, most heavily concentrated along the outer minute track between the seven and eleven o'clock positions. The simple polished stick hands show moderate oxidation and surface aging consistent with the overall patination of the dial. Case and Crystal The 36mm stainless steel cushion case exemplifies the bold architectural styling of the era. The upper case surface showcases heavy, factory-style vertical brushing that contrasts handsomely with the polished case flanks. The transition between the brushed and polished surfaces remains distinct, though the case exhibits honest handling marks, surface scratches, and minor edge wear commensurate with decades of use. The original Rado-signed crown, featuring the stylized "R" logo, sits flush against the right flank. The watch is fitted with a domed acrylic crystal that displays visible surface scratches and minor edge crazing. Turning the watch over reveals a screw-down stainless steel caseback, proudly bearing the deeply stamped Rado Water-Sealed seahorse medallion, along with the clearly legible reference number 11836 and serial number 343642642. Movement Powering this Marco Polo is a beautifully gold-finished automatic movement, clearly identifiable by the ETA shield and caliber 2772 stamping visible beneath the balance wheel. The movement features a centrally mounted winding rotor elegantly engraved with "RADO SWISS" and "25 JEWELS." The visual condition of the movement is notably clean, showcasing bright plates and well-preserved components. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece, the timegrapher indicates a highly precise -12 to -14 seconds per day with strong amplitude. Strap The watch is paired with a black textured leather strap featuring prominent white contrast stitching along the edges. The strap is secured with a classic stainless steel pin buckle, complementing the robust aesthetic of the cushion case. Condition This timepiece is presented in good vintage condition. The stainless steel case retains strong lines with honest, age-appropriate surface wear and scratches. The dial exhibits distinct perimeter staining and visible patination, offering a heavily aged aesthetic that speaks to its history. The movement is remarkably preserved and running with exceptional precision. Dimensions Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Remarks The Rado Marco Polo stands as a testament to an era of fearless watch design. Its combination of a substantial cushion case, the dynamic rotating anchor, and a highly capable ETA-based automatic movement makes it a fascinating study in 1970s Swiss horology. Despite the visible dial aging, its outstanding mechanical performance ensures it remains a highly capable companion for the vintage enthusiast. History Founded in 1917 as Schlup & Co. and later transitioning to the Rado brand, the company built its reputation on producing incredibly durable and uniquely styled timepieces. By the 1960s and 1970s, Rado had established a distinct design language characterized by unconventional case shapes, the use of hard metals, and evocative model names inspired by exploration and travel, such as the Marco Polo. The introduction of the free-spinning anchor logo on the dial became a hallmark of the brand's automatic watches, originally intended as a clever visual indicator of when the watch might require service, should the anchor cease to rotate freely. Today, these distinctive mid-century Rado models are celebrated for their unapologetic design and reliable Swiss mechanics. Payment and Shipping Payment must be completed within 1–3 days after purchase. Your watch will be professionally and very securely packaged, and shipped with tracking and insurance for your peace of mind. We ship via fast express service, with typical delivery in 1–4 business days (destination dependent). Note that with vintage watches, minor signs of wear, aging, or imperfections may be present and are considered normal for watches of this age. Please review all photos carefully before bidding. We strive to photograph each watch from multiple angles for the most accurate representation. The photos form an important part of the description. If there are any concerns of functionality or defects after delivery, make sure to contact us within 3 days of receiving the watch so we can assist you. As with all vintage watches, water resistance is not guaranteed. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us after the auction ends. / Second Vintage SKU: RAD-RMP-0002