Rado Rework A Classic
Rado is one of the great pioneer watch brands.
Founded in 1917, the brand developed a reputation for pushing the envelope in 1962 when it launched the DiaStar, the world’s first scratch-resistant watch. It was here that Rado displayed their knack for innovation when it came to technical materials. The durability of the DiaStar stemmed from the fact it was made from ‘hardmetal’, or tungsten carbide, a super-strong material also used to make drill bits.
In 1986, Rado introduced the Integral line, which had cases made of high-tech ceramics. At the time, that was an audacious, space-age move. Since then countless brands have followed suit and ceramics are now widely used throughout the watch world because of their scratch-resistant and hypoallergenic qualities.
The brand’s latest offering – the Rado Hyperchrome Captain Cook - goes back to the future with an elegantly restrained revamp of their 1962 divers’ watch.
In terms of looks, this retro classic represents brazen nostalgia at its best, from the deliberately patinated index batons right down to the ‘ping’ of the red date numerals.
Modern upgrades include a scratch-proof ceramic bezel and sapphire crystal. But the modestly sized dial – 37mm in the smaller model – ensures its fidelity to the past.
Nostalgia, they say, is the enemy of progress. But when retro looks as good as this, venturing back in time can be an inspirational investment.
