Vintage Rado President-Style Gold-Plated Cushion Case Automatic Watch
Watch (Wristwatch) · Yellow Gold (classic warm tone, likely over a base metal like stainless steel or brass)
Purity: Gold Plated (likely 20 microns). Non-solid gold composition based on visible edge wear and brassing.
Type
Watch (Wristwatch)
Purity
Gold Plated (likely 20 microns). Non-solid gold composition based on visible edge wear and brassing.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (classic warm tone, likely over a base metal like stainless steel or brass)
Weight
Estimated total weight 85-110 grams (total item weight, not gold content).
Description
A classic 1970s Rado automatic timepiece featuring a substantial gold-plated cushion case that frames a striking deep blue sunburst dial. The watch is paired with a matching gold-tone President-style bracelet, epitomizing the 'Luxury Sports' aesthetic of the 1970s. The vibrant red date and gold hour markers provide a high-contrast, prestigious look characteristic of the era's Swiss watchmaking.
Key Features
Oversized cushion-shaped bezel, blue gradient 'sunburst' dial, red numerical date indicator at 3 o'clock, and integrated-look President bracelet.
Color & Finish
Mid-tone yellow gold with a high-polish finish on the cushion bezel. The bracelet features a brushed satin finish on the outer links with polished center links. Significant surface patina and micro-scratching throughout.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Expected marks on the case back would include 'Watersealed', 'Rado', and a serial number. Look for '20 Microns' or 'Gold Electroplated' stamps between the lugs.
Dimensions Estimate
Case diameter approx 36mm-38mm; 20mm lug width; Standard men's bracelet length (approx 7.5 inches).
Gemstones & Inlays
None. Blue sunburst dial with applied gold-tone indices and a red date wheel.
Clasp & Closure
Fold-over deployment clasp, likely stamped with the Rado anchor logo.
Chain & Links
President-style link bracelet with semi-cylindrical links and a central row of hexagonal/curved connectors.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision Swiss automatic movement; high-quality machine-stamped bracelet links; multi-layered dial construction with applied elements.
Authentication Indicators
Anchor logo on the dial; 'Swiss Made' at 6 o'clock; high-quality applied indices. Red flag: The significant wear on edges reveals this is not solid gold, but plated.
Origin & Maker
Swiss origin; Maker: Rado. Known for innovative materials and bold geometric designs.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern / 1970s Bold Gold era. Defined by the oversized cushion case and vibrant sunburst dial.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970-1979 based on the shape and movement characteristics.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 1970s shift toward 'Disco-era' luxury, where watches became larger, bolder, and used more colorful dials to signify status and style.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Visible 'brassing' (gold wear-off) on the edges of the bezel and bracelet links exposing the base metal. Heavy scratching on the acrylic crystal and surface scuffs on the case.
Value Estimate
Retail replacement $250 - $450 USD. Melt value is negligible as the item is gold plated rather than solid gold.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid all chemical exposure and ultrasonic cleaning which can strip remaining plating. Use a soft damp cloth only. Requires mechanical servicing every 5 years.
Similar Items
Vintage Omega Constellation (Integrated), Breitling Top Time, or Seiko 'Recraft' series—though those often use more traditional case shapes.
Interesting Facts
Rado was a pioneer in using scratch-resistant materials, though this specific model uses traditional gold plating which was common for their mainstream 1970s lines.