Rado - DiaStar - Senza prezzo di riserva - 807307 - Uomo - 1970-1979

Offered in this auction by Second Vintage

The Rado DiaStar stands as a monumental achievement in twentieth-century horology, instantly recognizable by its futuristic shield-shaped case and pioneering use of ultra-resilient materials. Introduced to combat the daily wear and tear that plagued traditional steel and gold watches, the DiaStar introduced the world to the concept of the scratch-proof timepiece. This particular example perfectly captures the bold, space-age aesthetic of its era, combining a highly faceted crystal with a vertically brushed dial that has aged with distinct character. It is a striking artifact of mid-century watchmaking innovation, offering collectors a chance to own a piece of Rado's enduring legacy.

Brand: Rado
Model: DiaStar
Reference Number: 807307
Movement: Automatic
Dial: Silver vertically brushed dial with applied indices, exhibiting prominent spotting and heavy age-consistent patina across the surface
Case Size: 35 mm
Case Material: Hard metal and stainless steel
Production Year: 1970s
Condition: Good vintage condition with an exceptionally preserved hard metal case and a heavily patinated dial

Dial and Hands
The dial features a distinct vertical brushed finish that serves as a dynamic backdrop for the applied metallic indices. At the twelve o'clock position, the signature Rado rotating anchor logo sits within a purple circular frame, a beloved hallmark of the brand's automatic timepieces. A prominent, vertically stacked day and date aperture is positioned at six o'clock, framed by a stepped metallic window that adds depth to the lower hemisphere. The dial exhibits significant, even spotting and freckling across its entire surface, presenting a heavy, age-consistent patina. Subtle discoloration and wear are visible along the outer rehaut edge. The black baton hands contrast sharply against the silver dial and feature aged luminous inserts that have darkened over time, matching the overall vintage character of the display.

Case and Crystal
The iconic oval case is defined by its massive, shield-like upper bezel crafted from Rado's signature scratch-resistant hard metal. True to the material's legendary properties, the highly polished, mirror-like top surface remains in remarkably crisp condition, showing only superficial handling marks and retaining its brilliant factory luster. The underlying case and screw-down caseback are rendered in stainless steel, with the back clearly stamped with the Rado seahorse emblem, "DIASTAR 8", and "Water-Sealed" nomenclature. The watch is fitted with an iconic, highly faceted crystal that creates stunning geometric light play across the dial. Upon close inspection, the crystal exhibits visible edge wear, minor flea bites along the faceted borders, and light surface marks consistent with decades of wear. A Rado-signed crown featuring the anchor logo completes the case profile.

Movement
The watch is powered by a mechanical automatic movement, driving the central timekeeping hands alongside the day and date complications. Performing well within expected vintage tolerances; running strong and steady. The timegrapher records a performance of -32 to -38 seconds per day.

Strap
The watch is paired with a period correct black leather strap featuring contrasting white stitching at the lugs and tip, secured by a stainless steel pin buckle.

Condition
This timepiece is presented in good vintage condition. The hard metal bezel is exceptionally well-preserved, maintaining its signature high-polish finish with minimal signs of use. The underlying steel case shows normal, honest wear. The dial displays heavy, distinct spotting and patina throughout, and the faceted crystal shows visible edge wear and micro-chipping along its geometric borders.

Dimensions
The case measures 35 mm in width, providing a substantial and unique wrist presence due to its lugless, shield-shaped architecture.

Remarks
The DiaStar remains one of the most historically significant models in Rado's archives, celebrated for bringing advanced metallurgy into mainstream watchmaking. Its unconventional silhouette and robust construction make it a fascinating conversation piece for collectors of unconventional vintage design.

History
In 1962, Rado revolutionized the watch industry with the introduction of the original DiaStar. Marketed as the world's first scratch-proof watch, it utilized an ultra-hard tungsten carbide alloy for the bezel and a sapphire crystal, materials that were incredibly difficult to machine at the time. The distinctive oval shape was born out of technical necessity, maximizing the structural integrity of the hard metal while protecting the crown and lugs. Over the decades, the DiaStar has remained a cornerstone of Rado's catalog, celebrated for its avant-garde styling and its uncompromising approach to durability.

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-RDX-0002