Time To Revisit Rado Watches

Rado is a major name in watch making that has become less important in Western markets over the years. The brand that practically “made” ceramic as a major material for watch construction has seemingly been around in the background for a while. For me, the brand epitomized 80’s futurism and modernism when it come to watches. Flash forward to today, and the Swatch Group owned brand is still around and healthy, but not something you see or hear about as often as you might in other places such and Asia, India, or South America. The watches tend to have a smaller shape, and the shiny black cases aren’t for everyone. Plus, most of their watches are quartz based – a fact that does not appeal to hardcore mechanical watch lovers.

Over the past few years Rado has been quietly releasing a number of new models, including those that have been designed by British designer Jasper Morrison. The new models feature an updated modern and minimalist look that feel true to Rado’s DNA while offerings something new. Ceramic is still used liberally, and in conjunction with materials such as steel, gold, and titanium. Wild models even feature elements such as black diamonds. Having the full resources available at Swatch Group owned ETA, Rado even can experiment with different movements. Here for example the brand revisits mechanical movements. This isn’t their first mechanical watch in a while, but is one of the most appealing and straight forward of the bunch. This is the Jasper Morrison designed Rado r5.5 Automatic with its automatic Swiss ETA 2892A2 movement inside.

You’ll notice the TV screen shape that Morrison is giving lots of his watches. It isn’t quite square gives the slightly bulging edges, but offers the dial a place to be round within the dial. The watch is in mostly black ceramic with a matte, as opposed to shiny finish. The all black tones are disrupted by the stark white hour markers and hands that are luminant covered. The face is particularly easy to read and inspired by diving watches – that are themselves designed to be easy to read. The chic looking watch surely isn’t for everyone, but fans of the brand and new onlookers can appreciate the quality design and straightforwardness the timepiece offers. Ceramic always has the benefit of being very resistant to wear – and an added incentive to take a close look at watches that use the material.

Designs like this will get Rado noticed by more watch lovers. The history of the brand will surely assists its reputation with watch lovers, and the designs it has are serious alternatives to many mainstream looks. I don’t quite get all of Jasper Morrison Rado watches, but when I see pieces like this I look forward to what he will present next.

By Ariel Adams

Tags: automatic, Jasper Morrison, r5.5, Rado, watch

This entry was posted on Tuesday, February 9th, 2010 at 2:34 pm and is filed under Watches. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed.