For Baselworld 2018, Swiss watch brand, Rado, introduced two watch lines that combine old-school aesthetics with modern design and material innovations.
HyperChrome Ultra Light
Presented in two earthy colors, bronze and brown, the HyperChrome Ultra Light is made with ultra-light high-tech ceramic. It weighs just 56g, half the weight of standard Rado high-tech ceramic, while harder and more scratch-resistant. The brown sunray dial design is inspired by 19th century pocket watches. Each model has the moving anchor symbol, and the printed Rado and automatic logos. The brown version is presented on a NATO strap with a sporty, vintage appearance, while the bronze edition has a brown aged leather strap.
They are both powered by the ETA A31.L02, automatic movement with a 64-hour power reserve, black oscillating rotor, decorated movement, black anodised aluminium bridges and plate, exclusive to Rado.
HyperChrome Ultra-Light retails for $2,950 and will be available in September. Each model is limited to 50 pieces.
Tradition 1965 XL Auto
This watch combines 1960s design with contemporary materials. Inspired by the Manhattan skyline, the design of the 1965 original incorporates elements that include rectangular hour and minute markers, a squared day-date complication window and the iconic Rado red anchor at 9 o’clock.
The new Tradition 1965 XL retains this aesthetic while integrating new materials and design details. The case is now crafted of PVD coated titanium, a material that is almost 40% lighter than stainless steel. Sapphire crystal is used for the glass and the dial design is completed with the “tuning fork” hour and minute hands. New design touches include a red anchor that pivots with the movement of the watch. A larger case size, 44mm x 44mm, and cushion-shaped case back provide extra comfort.
The watch is powered by an ETA C07.621 automatic movement. Production is limited to 1,965 pieces. It will be available in June at a cost of $2,350.
Rado also created two M-sized versions of the Tradition 1965 with 35mm x 35mm stainless steel cases.
The first has a silver-colored, sun brushed dial with rhodium coloured applied indexes; a rhodium coloured moving anchor symbol with red background; rhodium colored applied Rado logo; dark grey printed Automatic logo; and rhodium colored hands. Completing the watch is a cognac colored leather strap. It retails for $1,950 and will be available in June. It is limited to 1,965 pieces.
The second jeweled version (not pictured) has a lacquered polished white dial adorned with 228 diamonds. The stainless steel case,bezel and lugs have an additional 74 diamonds. The caseback is stamped with two seahorses. It is finished with a white crocodile strap. It is limited to 65 pieces.
They are both powered by the ETA 2671 automatic movement with a 38-hour power reserve.
