Rado Voyager MK 1 added to my collection this week. This model has the five figure model number 11814 which means it was made between 1970-72, later models had an eight figure numbers. The movement is a Rado 2794, which is an ETA 2788 day/quick date.
Vintage Rado watch’s have the famous Anchor logo which rotates independently of the watch mechanism which is a great feature. The day date display at 6 o’clock is a feature that really appeals to me. The name Voyager, make me wonder if the inspiration came from Star Trek? Well I would like to think so, the date certainly matches.
The Voyager went on to become the entry level watch for Rado, in many shapes and reincarnations but I am happy to say this model is a first generation mk1. The model is listed in this brochure from 1972, it is the middle watch of this trio.
Rado 2894 equivalent to the ETA 2788, but customized, also has a German day wheel.
The earlier models also have the screw in back case, later models clip on. A lot of Rado automatics from this era is the use of the Seahorse logo. Rado water-resistant case backs of the era were engraved with a medallion picturing two or three seahorses with the words “Water-Sealed” beneath. And the anchor logo on the crown.
This advert below is of the Rado Voyager MK1 from a Japanese catalogue dated 1970
Hello. I just stumbled onto your website while using google trying to locate info on a watch I was interested in putting in a bid on, on eBay. Your site is wonderful. You the way it is set up makes it hard for me to stop reading. I was wondering if you might know anything about a Rado Voyager serial # 23761371. It would be very healthy for me to prove to my wife that I got a really good deal:) thank you in advance for any help. I’m also a big Star Trek Voyager fan.
Sorry about the double post…