Collectible Circa 1960s! Rado Lady Tank Cal 201 17J Mechanical Watch (OH)

Make: Rado
Type: Mechanical
Model: Lady Tank Gold Dial
Year of Production: Circa 1960s
Movement: Cal 201
BPH: 21,600
Number of Jewels: 17
Hands and Dial: 3D Baton Indices and Hands
Width: 18.7mm
Height: 23.7mm
Thickness: 7.6mm
Lug Width: 11mm
Bracelet/Strap: Original Rado Signed Gold Plated SS Bracelet
Pouch / Box: Brand-New EVA Type Zipper Pouch

Rado was founded in 1917 in Lengnau, Switzerland, by brothers Fritz, Ernst, and Werner Schlup. Initially, the company was called Schlup + Co.

In 1957, the Schlup family rebranded the company as Rado Uhren AG. The name "Rado" is derived from the word "radar," reflecting the brand's commitment to innovation and technology. 

In recent years, vintage Rado watches have gained tremendous popularity among watch collectors and enthusiasts. The distinctive designs, historical significance, and quality construction contribute to their appeal.

For Rado Collectors and Vintage fans, this is a Rado Lady Tank Cal 201 Mechanical movement. This watch had gained Collectible status because of its rare Rado movement.

The Rado logo, which often features an anchor, is unique and present on the watch crown and case-back as well.

Its timeless tank shaped classic gold-plated case, dial, 3D indices, hands and original crystal were given a good buff that removed most of the obvious scratches and age marks.

The original signed crown is located at the 3H position. The hands quickset operate in the traditional manner by pulling out and rotating the crown that works as it should. 

The movement was carefully stripped and meticulously cleaned via ultrasonic immersion, oiled, re-assembled and calibrated on 28 May 2024; hence, it had undergone an overhaul and should be able to operate unhindered until the next servicing thereby providing the owner peace of mind.

This movement is the rare Cal 201, 17 Jewels that operates at 21,600 BPH. The time-grapher shows excellent readings of +1 seconds every 24 hours and amplitude of 188 with a very good straight centered line! Such readings are exceptional even by brand new modern automatic watch standards whereby the accepted tolerance is -20 to +40 seconds a day! This is a testament to the quality, the meticulous care provided over the years, and the painstaking calibration conducted.

The original Rado Signed Gold-Plated SS Bracelet accompanies the watch. It too had undergone a a deep cleaning and is now in near mint condition.

The case width and height are approx. 18.7mm (w/o crown) and 23.7mm respectively. The lug width is 11mm and the bracelet can accommodate wrists up to 15cm.

To the best of our knowledge and expertise when overhauling the timepiece, the watch is 100% original Rado components from this particular watch. No parts were replaced with aftermarket or modified parts.

Due to its age, this timepiece has not been water-resistant tested.

The pictures provided shows the watch in superb condition, and the movement within squeaky clean and well maintained. It has also been demagnetised to improve parts reliability, minimise wear + tear, and improve accuracy. The only drawback is the lack of documentation and original box. A brand new EVA pouch is provided.

Bear in mind that this watch has seen many of the previous owners’ ups and downs in life, and should be cherished and well taken care of for the next generation to savour such engineering beauty.

This very rare watch will make an extremely beautiful birthday present for that special someone, and its value will appreciate over time.

This is a highly sort-after Rado Lady Tank Cal 201 Mechanical watch in stunning condition; so, be unique and wear a watch that is almost impossible to source in such fine condition.