Rado - Ticino - χωρίς τιμή ασφαλείας - 11050 - Άνδρες - 1970-1979

Presented for auction by Second Vintage

This Rado Ticino is a quintessential representation of 1970s horological design, blending robust stainless steel architecture with a highly expressive dial. Known for their daring aesthetics and distinctive branding, Rado produced timepieces during this era that stood out for their unique case shapes and meticulous dial finishing. This particular example captures that spirit perfectly, featuring a vibrant sunburst dial, the brand’s signature kinetic anchor logo, and a highly reliable ETA-based automatic caliber. It is a compelling piece for collectors who appreciate striking vintage aesthetics paired with dependable Swiss mechanics.

Brand: Rado
Model: Ticino
Reference Number: 11050
Movement: Automatic ETA Caliber 2824
Dial: Golden-khaki sunburst dial with applied faceted indices, red date display, and rotating anchor logo, exceptionally clean with no visible flaws
Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown)
Case Material: Stainless steel
Production Year: 1970s
Condition: Excellent vintage condition with a pristine dial and sharp case lines

Dial and Hands
The dial is a visual standout, featuring a rich golden-khaki sunburst texture that plays beautifully with the light. The condition of the dial is absolutely stunning, remaining exceptionally clean and free from any visible spotting, moisture marks, staining, or print loss. It is adorned with applied, faceted block indices that feature white painted central lines, complemented by intact luminescent pips at the outer minute track. The iconic Rado anchor logo sits proudly at the twelve o'clock position against a red circular background, designed to rotate freely with the movement of the wrist. A striking red date wheel is positioned at three o'clock, adding a vibrant touch of contrast. The original baton hands feature black central inserts and luminous material, matching the indices perfectly and exhibiting an even, age-consistent patina.

Case and Crystal
The tonneau-shaped stainless steel case exemplifies the bold design language of its era. It features a prominent brushed finish on the flat upper surfaces that transitions sharply into highly polished, wide sloping flanks. The lug profiles and factory chamfers remain well-defined, indicating careful preservation over the decades. The watch is fitted with a domed crystal that provides clear, undistorted views of the dial beneath. The original crown is correctly signed with the embossed Rado anchor. The screw-down caseback is deeply stamped with the classic Rado Water-Sealed seahorse medallion and the 11050 reference number. The case exhibits honest signs of light vintage wear, including minor superficial handling marks and faint scratches on the polished surfaces, but retains excellent overall structural integrity.

Movement
Powering this timepiece is a Swiss automatic movement, clearly stamped with the Rado signature and 25 jewels. Close inspection reveals the base caliber marking of 2824 beneath the balance wheel, identifying it as a robust ETA 2824 workhorse. The movement features fine regulation and a beautifully decorated rotor with a distinct waffle-pattern engine turning. Performing well within expected vintage tolerances; running strong and steady. Timegrapher results show -22 to -28 s/d.

Strap
The watch is presented on its original stainless steel bracelet, featuring a flat, staggered link design that integrates seamlessly with the case geometry. The folding clasp is proudly stamped with the Rado seahorse emblem. The bracelet shows normal vintage wear with slight stretch consistent with its age, but remains highly secure and comfortable on the wrist, accommodating sizes up to 18 cm.

Condition
This Rado Ticino is in excellent vintage condition. The dial is the undeniable highlight, preserved in a near-flawless state with vibrant color and sharp printing. The stainless steel case retains its factory finishes and sharp geometric lines, showing only age-appropriate, superficial handling marks. The movement is clean and operational, and the original signed bracelet completes this highly original and well-preserved package.

Dimensions
The stainless steel case measures 35 mm in diameter, excluding the signed crown. The original bracelet will comfortably accommodate a wrist size of up to 18 cm.

Remarks
Finding a vintage Rado with such an immaculate and uniquely colored dial is a rare treat. The combination of the golden-khaki sunburst finish, the red date wheel, and the kinetic anchor logo creates a dial full of character and depth. Paired with its sharp tonneau case and reliable ETA movement, this Ticino offers a fantastic blend of visual intrigue and everyday wearability.

History
Founded in 1917 as Schlup and Co. and later launching watches under the Rado name in the 1950s, the brand quickly established a reputation for avant-garde design and the pioneering use of unconventional materials. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Rado became famous for its bold case shapes and the introduction of the rotating anchor logo, a clever visual indicator of their automatic movements. The Ticino line reflects this era of confident experimentation, offering collectors a piece of Rado’s rich heritage characterized by distinctive aesthetics and enduring Swiss engineering.

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-TGX-0001