The Rado Captain Cook High-Tech Ceramic Skeleton is a watch of such a singular aesthetic that it’s guaranteed to stand out in any and all circumstances. From its stunning pairing of matte olive-green, high-tech ceramic with rose-gold PVD accents to the skeletonised design and innovative movement that lies at its heart, this is as unique a watch as we’ve had come through Man of Many’s doors. As such, it should also come as no surprise that it’s also proved itself a real head turner when worn out and about.
Designed for those ready and willing to embrace the unconventional, the Captain Cook High-Tech Ceramic Skeleton is a perfect timepiece for watch lovers who live with a touch of adventurous flair and don’t mind being noticed along the way — an unavoidable outcome with this Rado in tow, regardless of where or when you happen to wear it. To put it simply, this watch is a perfect companion, no matter the surroundings or situation in which you might find yourself, and as such we’ve enjoyed every moment with it.
Hooked On a Feeling
Beyond the striking visual aspect (more on that shortly), there’s something undeniably compelling about the way this watch feels. It’s probably down to the high-tech ceramic, first introduced by Rado in 1986, which has revealed itself to be something of a miracle material over time. While wonderfully light and easy on the wrist, it’s also exceptionally scratch-resistant, which isn’t something you’d assume when first taking the watch out of its box.
However, once you put it on, that’s when this watch reveals one of its many super powers; a level of comfort that’s difficult to describe. It’s almost as if the watch bracelet’s material is partly made of silk. Obviously this isn’t the case, but that’s the sensation you experience upon closing the clasp around your wrist.
Beauty and Character Collide
While Rado’s Captain Cook offering has always been an uncompromising and character-rich affair, this new piece elevates matters. Taking inspiration from the natural beauty that has often been a determined explorer’s reward, the new shade of matte olive-green has a sense of the organic that’s offset by the sunny rose-gold PVD treatment surrounding the bezel, punctuating the dial, and making up the crown.
The watch also offers a more sporty, outdoor-ready aesthetic for those so inclined, including a matching olive-tone rubber strap similar to those used on Rado’s diver models. This comes equipped with a welcome finishing touch, too; a small, high-tech ceramic clasp-cover holding two reliable, rose-gold-shaded pushbuttons to handsome effect.
Intricately Crafted Heart
While the watch certainly feels incredible and the matte olive-green of the ceramic and rose-gold detailing have a comparable impact on the eye, on close inspection it’s the innovative R808 movement that really fascinates. An absolute wonder of contrasting materials and clever geometry, its immaculate finishing in a range of shades enhances the visibility of distinct elements within the mechanism, including the centre-wheel bridge and the horizontally brushed platine. Realised through the elite skill and know-how of Rado’s master craftspeople, it’s truly something to behold.
Sitting atop this feat of meticulous design is a clear and spartan dial boasting generous geometric indices and hour, minute, and second hands finished in rose-gold tones. The hands are also layered with white Super-LumiNova, maximising readability in low-light conditions and giving the watch a rugged practicality that perfectly balances its tremendous intricacy and precision.
An Explorer’s Spirit
Whether our next expedition sees us exploring the natural world or the urban jungle, there’s no timepiece we’d rather have by our side than the Rado Captain Cook High-Tech Ceramic Skeleton. Priced at AUD$7,450 and available now, the rugged and durable release is a true adventurer’s piece. From its nature-inspired aesthetic to the sheer beauty and precision of its stunning R808 movement, this is a watch quite unlike any other.
Rado Captain Cook High-Tech Ceramic Skeleton
- Brand: Rado
- Model: Captain Cook High-Tech Ceramic Skeleton
- Movement: R808 movement
- Reference: R32150162
- Diameter: 43mm
- Water Resistance: 300m
- Power Reserve: 80 hours
- Price: AUD$7,450
