Brand: Rado
Model: EIGER
Ref. unknown
Issued: 1972
Case: Tungsten-Carbide bezel with Stainless steel screw-back (inset with gold-tone medallion)
Bracelet: n/a
Movement: ETA Cal. 2783 automatic with date, 25 jewels, gilt, signed 'pineapple' rotor and plate (marked Rado, 2797, 211)
Description: This is another of the Diastar/Balboa-like watches with shaped tungsten-carbide bezel and faceted sapphire crystal. Along with many other vintage Rado models such as Matterhorn and Rothhorn, this is intended to celebrate the eponymous alpine peak. This EIGER has a sunburst dial that appears variously silver, gold and brown from center to its edges. Bold wedge markers are used for the hours; date window is at 3:00. Crown is signed with Rado anchor logo; case back features inset gold-tone medallion typical of watches seen in the Japanese market. The crystal features facets unlike many other models I've seen before--a diagram of the facets is provided below.
The bezel shows no wear, but the underside of the 6:00 lugs have chipped where the spring bars attach--some care must be taken when changing straps and/or choosing spring bars. Some very minor chipping is evident at the edges of the crystal. The watch is very presentable and is keeping accurate time. Service history is unknown; date functions properly at midnight.
Photos: Click for larger images
This watch has been sold.
Text & images © C. Bradley Jacobs and WatchCarefully.com, unless otherwise noted.