Vintage Rado TV-Dial Yellow Gold Electroplated Watch
Watch · Yellow Gold plating (likely 18K or 22K alloy used for the bath)
Purity: Electroplated (approx. 20 microns over base metal). This is not solid gold; it contains a thin layer of gold equivalent to roughly 0.05% of total weight.
Type
Watch
Purity
Electroplated (approx. 20 microns over base metal). This is not solid gold; it contains a thin layer of gold equivalent to roughly 0.05% of total weight.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold plating (likely 18K or 22K alloy used for the bath)
Weight
Total weight approx 80-100 grams including movement and base metal; gold weight is negligible (under 0.5g).
Description
A classic 1970s Rado automatic or manual wind timepiece featuring a bold yellow gold-plated cushion-shaped case. The striking gradient blue dial provides a sharp aesthetic contrast, hallmarks of the 'Space Age' design movement.
Key Features
Characteristic 'TV-Dial' shape, integrated bracelet design, and the iconic 'moving anchor' logo (if applicable to this specific model).
Color & Finish
Warm yellow gold color with a high-polish finish on prominent surfaces; shows extensive surface scratching and plating wear (pitting) on the bracelet links.
Hallmarks & Stamps
RADO brand logo on dial; date wheel at 3 o'clock; likely 'Stainless Steel Back' or 'Water Sealed' stamps on the caseback (not visible); possible 'Plaque G20' between lugs.
Dimensions Estimate
Case width approx 36mm-38mm; bracelet width 20mm tapering; standard men's vintage sizing.
Gemstones & Inlays
None; gold-tone baton hour markers and a blue sunburst dial with a red second hand.
Clasp & Closure
Fold-over deployment clasp (standard for integrated style bracelets of this era).
Chain & Links
President-style or semi-oval three-link integrated bracelet; machine-pressed construction.
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced Swiss industrial assembly. Stamped bracelet links and a cast base metal case with electro-chemical gold deposition.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic Rado dial typography. Red flag: The heavy pitting on the links confirms it is plated base metal, not solid gold.
Origin & Maker
Switzerland; Rado (Schlup & Co.). Rado is known for industrial design and pioneering hard materials.
Era & Period
1970s Retro-Futuristic / Space Age. Indicators include the 'TV-screen' case shape and vibrant sunburst dial.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970-1979 based on the cushion/TV case geometry and dial aesthetic.
Cultural Significance
The 1970s favored bold, non-traditional watch shapes as a departure from the round dress watches of the 1950s.
Condition Notes
Fair to Poor. Significant plating loss on the bracelet, heavy scratching on the acrylic crystal, and visible grime/wear on the bezel.
Value Estimate
$100 - $250 USD. Value is based on brand collectibility rather than gold content; melt value is zero.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid ultrasonic cleaners which can strip remaining plating. Use a soft damp cloth only. Requires mechanical movement servicing every 5 years.
Similar Items
Omega Constellation TV Dial, Seiko 5 Actus, or Mido Multi Star; these differ in movement quality and specific case tapers.
Interesting Facts
Rado was a pioneer in using scratch-proof materials like tungsten carbide, though this specific model is a more traditional plated brass or steel version.