Rado Automatic Appraisal

Vintage Rado NCC 101 Automatic Wristwatch

This item is a vintage Rado 'NCC 101' automatic wristwatch, likely dating from the 1970s given its design aesthetics. The watch features a square-shaped stainless steel case with slightly rounded corners, giving it a soft, yet robust appearance. The dial is a vibrant deep blue, with a subtle vertically brushed finish that catches the light. The hour markers are applied silver-toned rectangular indices, with double markers at the 12, 6, and 9 o'clock positions and single markers elsewhere. A distinctive horizontal silver-toned stripe runs across the mid-section of the dial, hosting the Rado logo (an anchor symbol which appears to be rotating on some Rado models, indicating automatic movement) at 9 o'clock and a day-date complication at 3 o'clock. The day and date windows display 'TUES' and '13' respectively, with white characters on a black or dark background. The hour and minute hands are broad, silver-toned, and appear to have a luminous insert (though its current glow capability is unknown). The seconds hand is a thin, plain silver-tone. Below the horizontal stripe, the model name 'NCC 101' is clearly printed. The watch is attached to a flexible, integrated stainless steel bracelet with a multi-link design, showing some wear consistent with age and use, including minor scratches and dulling of the finish. The clasp is a folding type, also made of stainless steel, and shows expected signs of use. The overall condition appears good for its age, though specific mechanical functionality cannot be assessed from images alone. The crystal appears relatively clear with no obvious deep scratches or cracks visible. The craftsmanship suggests a sturdy and well-made timepiece typical of Rado's vintage offerings, known for their durable designs and innovative materials.