Presented for auction by Second Vintage A quintessential expression of 1970s design, this Rado Rising Star captures the era's bold aesthetic with its robust cushion case and striking dial layout. Known for their innovative approach to both materials and styling, Rado timepieces from this period offer tremendous character and mechanical reliability, making them highly sought after by collectors of distinctive vintage watches. Brand: Rado Model: Rising Star Reference Number: 72002918 Serial Number: 72002918 Movement: Automatic, 25 Jewels Dial: Silver sunburst with applied indices, exceptionally clean and well-preserved Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1970s Condition: Excellent vintage condition with sharp case lines and a pristine dial Dial and Hands The silver sunburst dial is a masterclass in mid-century texture and light play, remaining in exceptionally clean and well-preserved condition. Upon close inspection, the dial surface is free of significant spotting, moisture damage, or discoloration, presenting a brilliant and even finish. The dial furniture features prominent, faceted applied hour markers with black inserts that provide excellent contrast and legibility. The signature Rado rotating anchor logo sits proudly beneath the twelve o'clock position, featuring a vibrant red background that remains remarkably vivid. The date aperture at three o'clock displays striking red typography, framed by a subtle stepped border. The original baton hands mirror the indices with matching black central stripes, while a slender sweep seconds hand completes the display. All printed text, including the crisp sans-serif Rising Star designation and the outer minute track, remains perfectly sharp and fully intact. Case and Crystal The 36 mm stainless steel cushion case is a standout feature, exhibiting stunning preservation of its factory geometry. The upper case surfaces showcase a deep, coarse radial brushing that transitions abruptly into highly polished, faceted flanks. This transition remains incredibly sharp, indicating minimal past polishing and careful preservation. The case flanks and lugs display only light, honest handling marks consistent with careful vintage wear, with no deep gouges or structural damage. The prominent crown is correctly signed with the embossed Rado anchor emblem. The screw-down caseback is deeply engraved with the iconic Rado three-seahorse and star motif, alongside the Water-Sealed script and reference numbers, all of which remain crisp and highly legible. An acrylic crystal protects the dial, presenting clearly with only faint microscopic surface wear visible under harsh lighting. Movement Powering this timepiece is a Swiss-made automatic movement, beautifully finished with a rich gold plating. The rotor is proudly signed with the Rado name, anchor logo, and 25 Jewels designation. Close inspection of the base plate reveals the hallmark of A. Schild, along with the stamped numeral 900, indicating its robust Swiss ebauche heritage. The movement is visually clean, with the gears, ruby jewels, and balance assembly presenting beautifully. Performing well within expected vintage tolerances, running strong and steady. The timegrapher results indicate a performance of -25 to -30 seconds per day. Strap The watch is fitted with its original stainless steel flat-link bracelet, which perfectly complements the robust styling of the cushion case. The folded steel links exhibit an attractive brushed finish that matches the watch head, showing moderate stretch and light surface scuffs typical of vintage wear. The folding clasp is prominently stamped with the Rado anchor logo and block lettering, securing firmly. The bracelet accommodates a wrist size of up to 18 cm. Condition This Rado is presented in excellent vintage condition. The dial is exceptionally clean, standing out as a prime example of preservation with no notable flaws or degradation. The stainless steel case retains its sharp, factory-original chamfers and distinct brushed and polished surfaces, showing only minor superficial wear marks. The caseback engravings are deep and uncompromised. The movement is running well and the original bracelet remains in highly wearable, structurally sound condition. Dimensions The stainless steel case measures 36 mm in diameter, excluding the signed crown. The integrated lug design and cushion profile provide a substantial and comfortable presence on the wrist. Remarks Finding a vintage Rado from this era with such an immaculate dial and unpolished case profile is a rare occurrence. The Rising Star model perfectly encapsulates the architectural design language of the 1970s, making it a highly compelling acquisition for enthusiasts of distinct, character-rich vintage horology. History Founded in Lengnau, Switzerland in 1917 as Schlup & Co., the company eventually adopted the Rado name in the 1950s and quickly became renowned for its avant-garde designs and pioneering use of unconventional materials. During the 1960s and 1970s, Rado released a plethora of distinctively named models, each featuring the signature kinetic anchor logo on the dial. The Rising Star is a testament to this era of fearless experimentation, combining reliable Swiss mechanical engineering with a bold, futuristic aesthetic that continues to captivate collectors today. 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-RSX-0029