Rado Golden Horse - Ref. 11798 - A Swiss Classic of the Late 1960s!
Introduced in 1957, the Golden Horse series was Rado's first iconic collection. The model you have in your hands, the Ref. 11798 "New Golden Horse," is a unique example produced in the second half of the 1960s. Its stainless steel case, silver satin-textured dial, Rado's signature floating anchor logo at 12 o'clock, and the gold "Golden Horse" emblem at 6 o'clock offer an elegant and distinctive design.
The red-accented date window, baton indices, and original baton hands ensure simple and clear readability. The approximately 35-36 mm case diameter is typical of modern men's watches of the time. It maintains its integrity with its original Rado stainless steel bracelet and logo clasp.
Movement
Caliber: ETA 2472 (Rado-stamped rotor)
Jewels: 25 jewels
Frequency: 18,000 vph
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, date (no quick date)
Rotor Engraving: "Rado 25 Jewels"
Caliber Authentication
The ETA 2472 was introduced in 1963 and remained in production until 1969.
It was replaced by the ETA 2789 series in the early 1970s.
This information confirms that the Golden Horse 11798 model was produced between 1963 and 1969 (1965).
Case and Case Back
Model / Ref. No: 11798
Production Period: 1963–1969
Case Diameter: ~35-36 mm
Material: Stainless steel (All Stainless Steel)
Case Back Engraving:
“New Golden Horse”
Rado seahorse logo + stars
“Water Sealed” inscription
Model No: 11798
Interior Case Stamp: “Rado Watch Co. – All Stainless Steel – Swiss”
Why the Rado Golden Horse 11798?
Historical Value: One of Rado’s most iconic series from the late 1960s.
Original Movement: ETA 2472 → period-correct caliber, used between 1963 and 1969.
Iconic Design: Gold “Golden Horse” logo, moving anchor symbol, and classic Rado aesthetics.
Durability: Stainless steel case + “Water Sealed” water resistance design.
Collectible: A true collector's item with its original bracelet and buckle.
Condition Note
Dial: In very good condition, with a clean satin finish and original indices.
Hands: Original baton-type, very well preserved for its age.
Movement: ETA 2472, clean and in working order; rotor engraving is clear.
Case: Stainless steel surface is in good condition, with matte and polished transitions preserved.
Bracelet: Original Rado bracelet and logo buckle.
Case Back: Engravings are clear, with the "New Golden Horse" inscription and the seahorse logo prominent.
Final Word
The Rado Golden Horse Ref. 11798 is a distinctive piece that reflects the spirit of watchmaking in the second half of the 1960s. The ETA 2472 caliber, combined with Rado's timeless design and original bracelet, creates a valuable classic for both collectors and everyday wear.
The item you are viewing was manufactured in 1965.
Professionally overhauled and FULLY SERVICED (the movement is completely disassembled, its parts cleaned, oiled, and adjusted), your watch will function flawlessly without any surprises. (Maintenance-free for 3 years unless exposed to direct water or high humidity for extended periods.)
Item Condition: Tested and fully functional.
