The journey [of Rado Captain Cook] started in 1962 with the launch of the original Captain Cook 37mm. In 2017, the iconic look was re-launched and hit the nerve of time with the renewed worldwide interest in vintage-style diving watches. As the master of materials, we did not stop there but continued to develop the product with the launch of the 42mm steel version in 2019, and the re-interpretation in bronze in 2020. It is therefore the logical next step to produce this very iconic timepiece in high-tech ceramic, which perfectly combines the Rado past with the present,” stated Adrian Bosshard, CEO of Rado, in the press notes.
In quest of relevancy in the ever- changing world we live in, the new Rado Captain Cook High-Tech Ceramic collection is a representation of years of vigorous research and development where tradition is anything but neglected. The collection showcases more than mere innovative ceramic monobloc case construction, scratch-resistant and hypoallergenic high-tech ceramic, but also the Rado Calibre R734 with Nivachron hairspring – a cutting-edge material that shields the watch from damaging magnetic fields. Additionally, it is defined by its robust 80 hours power reserve, and up to 300m water resistance.
Featuring a sturdy 43mm case, the Rado Captain Cook High-Tech Ceramic collection is presented in four variants:
- black high-tech ceramic case and bracelet with a hardened stainless steel turning bezel and black high-tech ceramic insert;
- same case and dial but with a rubber strap for a more casual look;
- black high-tech ceramic case and bracelet but with contrasting rose gold coloured PVD coated stainless stell turning bezel, and black high-tech ceramic insert; and
- plasma high-tech ceramic case and bracelet, with hardened stainless steel bezel, and blue high-tech ceramic insert.
One of the highlights of the collection has got to be the mysterious black tinted sapphire crystal dial and case-back, which allow wearer to appreciate the inner workings of the skeletonised movement while still maintaining utmost legibility and elegance. The triangle marker on the bezel, the indexes and the Captain Cook arrow hands on the dial are all filled with Super-LumiNova in order to provide clear visibility in the dark. Last but not least, the dial is accentuated by the Rado rotating anchor at 12 o’clock and is protected by a chevé box sapphire crystal.
This story first appeared in the April 2021 issue of Men’s Folio Malaysia.
