Vintage Rado Manhattan Automatic Day-Date Black Dial Swiss Made 1970s w/ box For Sale

Vintage Rado Manhattan Automatic Day-Date Black Dial Swiss Made – Circa 1970s

Overview

• Brand:Rado
• Model / Reference:Manhattan (Case Serial / Ref: 500001544)
• Production Year:Circa 1970s
• Movement:Authentic Swiss-made mechanical automatic (self-winding) movement with Day/Date complication [1.13]
• Case Material:Stainless Steel [1.19, 1.21]
• Case Dimensions:Approximately 35mm x 35mm (Classic vintage rectangular \"television\" geometric presence) [1.10]
• Dial:Original deep black dial with applied high-relief block indices and iconic anchor logo

Key Features

• Iconic Television-Style Case:Features the heavily stylized, oversized rectangular stainless steel waterproof-concept case that defined Rado\'s bold design language during the late 1960s and 1970s.
• Dual-Day Calendar Display:A distinct day-and-date complication sits neatly stacked at 3 o\'clock, mirroring the architectural layout of the case design.
• Classic Dial Layout:The striking horizontal layout is anchored by high-visibility applied block hour markers and the crisp \"Manhattan\" branding script.
• Original Vintage Presentation Box:Accompanied by its highly collectible, period-correct cream/green textured outer reptile-pattern presentation box lined with rich burgundy velvet, adding immense display and collector value.

Condition Report

• Overall Condition:Pre-owned / Very Good cosmetic and structural vintage condition. The watch exhibits strong case geometry and retains its definitive mid-century aesthetics.
• Movement Performance:The automatic Swiss mechanical movement winds up with wrist movement and is in running condition. The time sets correctly, and both the day and date wheels function properly, advancing smoothly as intended. No long-term accuracy testing or service history is known. Sold as-is.(Note: The small anchor logo on the dial remains static/does not pivot).
• Case & Bezel:The heavy stainless steel case displays sharp corners and holds honest superficial hairline scratches and scuffs expected from an authentic, unpolished vintage piece.
• Crystal:The oversized geometric acrylic crystal is completely intact and structurally sound, showing expected surface scuffs that could easily be polished out if desired.
• Dial & Hands:The deep black dial is beautifully preserved with high-contrast applied silver hour blocks and clean hands.
• Band / Strap:Paired with an attractive aftermarket tan leather strap with contrasting cream accent stitching that beautifully complements the vintage steel and black dial.