RADO has a long and storied history, marked by innovation and a relentless pursuit of pushing boundaries in watchmaking materials and design. Founded in 1917 as Schlup & Co. in Lengnau, Switzerland, the company initially focused on producing watch movements. It wasn't until 1957 that the RADO brand name was born, marking a shift towards creating distinctive timepieces known for their durability and unique aesthetics.
In the 1960s, RADO pioneered the use of hardmetal with the DiaStar 1, the world's first scratch-proof watch, setting a new standard in the industry and establishing RADO as a leader in material innovation. This was followed by the introduction of high-tech ceramic in the 1980s, a material now synonymous with the brand. RADO's commitment to innovation has continued through the decades, with the development of new materials like Ceramos and Plasma high-tech ceramic, further solidifying its reputation as the "Master of Materials" in the watchmaking world.
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In RADO's 2025 Valentine's Day campaign, we are presented with the True Round Open Heart watches, available in two striking variants: black and white high-tech ceramic. These watches are not simply timekeeping devices; they are symbols of love and devotion, designed to resonate with the romantic essence of Valentine's Day. The campaign cleverly utilizes the universal metaphor of the rose, a flower long associated with love and passion, to underscore the emotional depth and connection that these timepieces represent. These watches are presented as perfect gifts to celebrate love.
The visual presentation of the True Round Open Heart watches is immediately captivating. The black version exudes a sleek, modern sophistication, while the white counterpart offers a lighter, more ethereal appeal. Both models feature a 40.0 mm monobloc case crafted from RADO's signature high-tech ceramic, a material celebrated for its exceptional durability, scratch resistance, and hypoallergenic properties. The smooth, polished surfaces of the ceramic cases and bracelets reflect light beautifully, creating an alluring play of shadows and highlights that draw the eye to the intricate details of the watch. The round case shape is a classic design element, but RADO's execution gives it a contemporary twist, ensuring that the watches feel both familiar and refreshingly new.
A defining feature of the True Round Open Heart is, as the name suggests, the open-heart dial design. This isn't merely a decorative element; it's a window into the soul of the watch, revealing the intricate workings of the RADO calibre R734 automatic movement. The cutout on the dial, positioned at the 12 o'clock mark, exposes the balance wheel, the very heart of the movement, as it oscillates back and forth. This visual spectacle is further enhanced by the sunray guilloche finish on the plate, which adds depth and texture to the dial. The juxtaposition of the exposed mechanical components against the smooth, minimalist backdrop of the high-tech ceramic case creates a striking contrast that is both visually appealing and technically impressive.
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The black model of the True Round Automatic Open Heart, with the reference R27107172, showcases a deep, lustrous black dial that perfectly complements the polished black high-tech ceramic case and bracelet. The rose gold-colored hands and indices provide a warm contrast against the dark background, ensuring excellent legibility while adding a touch of refinement. The moving anchor symbol, a signature RADO feature, is also rendered in rose gold, further enhancing the watch's aesthetic appeal. The overall effect is one of understated luxury, making this model a versatile choice that can be dressed up or down. The weight of the watch is 111.6 grams.
The white version of the True Round Automatic Open Heart, with the reference R27115012, offers a different but equally compelling visual experience. The white high-tech ceramic case and bracelet are paired with a clean, white dial, creating a sense of purity and lightness. The rose gold-colored hands and indices stand out against the white background, ensuring readability while adding a touch of warmth. The open-heart cutout is particularly striking on this model, as the contrast between the exposed movement and the white dial is more pronounced. The white ceramic has a subtle sheen that gives the watch a luxurious feel, making it a statement piece that is sure to turn heads. This watch is slightly lighter than the black one, coming in at 110.7 grams.
The True Round Open Heart watches are powered by the RADO calibre R734 automatic movement, a high-quality mechanism that reflects RADO's commitment to precision and reliability. This movement features an antimagnetic Nivachron hairspring, which enhances the watch's accuracy by reducing the influence of magnetic fields. With an impressive 80-hour power reserve, the R734 ensures that the watch will continue to run accurately even if not worn for several days. The movement is meticulously finished, with decorative elements that can be admired through the sapphire crystal case back. The combination of technical excellence and aesthetic refinement makes the R734 a fitting heart for these exceptional timepieces.
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Both versions of the True Round Open Heart feature a curved sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating on both sides. This not only ensures excellent scratch resistance but also enhances the legibility of the dial by reducing glare. The sapphire crystal is seamlessly integrated into the monobloc case, creating a smooth, uninterrupted surface that is both visually appealing and comfortable to wear. The water resistance of 5 bar (50 meters) means that the watches are suitable for everyday wear, capable of withstanding splashes and brief immersion in water.
The bracelets of the True Round Open Heart watches are crafted from the same high-tech ceramic as the cases, ensuring a cohesive and harmonious design. The ceramic links are smooth to the touch and conform comfortably to the wrist, thanks to their lightweight and hypoallergenic properties. The bracelets are secured with a titanium folding clasp, which is both durable and easy to use. The combination of the ceramic bracelet and the monobloc case creates a seamless, integrated design that is both visually striking and incredibly comfortable to wear.
RADO's use of high-tech ceramic in the True Round Open Heart watches is a testament to the brand's mastery of materials. High-tech ceramic is not only incredibly durable and scratch-resistant, but it also possesses a unique tactile quality that sets it apart from other materials. The ceramic has a smooth, silky feel that is pleasant to the touch, and it adapts quickly to the wearer's body temperature, making it comfortable to wear in any climate. The lightweight nature of the material further enhances the wearing experience, ensuring that the watches feel substantial yet not overly heavy on the wrist.
The production process of high-tech ceramic is a complex and precise undertaking, requiring advanced technology and meticulous craftsmanship. RADO's expertise in this field is evident in the flawless finish of the ceramic components, which are free of any imperfections or blemishes. The monobloc construction of the case, where the case is made from a single piece of ceramic, is particularly impressive, showcasing RADO's technical prowess and commitment to innovation. This construction method not only enhances the durability and water resistance of the watch but also contributes to its sleek, seamless design.
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The open-heart design of the True Round Open Heart watches is not merely a visual flourish; it is a deliberate choice that reflects the deeper meaning behind these timepieces. By exposing the beating heart of the movement, RADO invites the wearer to contemplate the intricate mechanics that power the watch and to appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship involved in its creation. The open-heart dial serves as a constant reminder of the passage of time, with the oscillating balance wheel marking each passing second. This visual representation of time's relentless flow adds an emotional dimension to the watch, making it more than just a functional object.
In the context of Valentine's Day, the open-heart design takes on an even greater significance. The exposed movement can be seen as a metaphor for the vulnerability and openness that are essential for love. Just as the watch's inner workings are laid bare, so too must individuals open their hearts to one another to form a genuine connection. The True Round Open Heart watches, with their captivating open-heart dials, serve as a tangible reminder of this essential truth, making them a fitting symbol of love and commitment.
The choice of rose gold-colored hands and indices for both the black and white models of the True Round Open Heart is another thoughtful design element that contributes to the overall aesthetic appeal of the watches. Rose gold is a warm, inviting color that complements the cool tones of the high-tech ceramic, creating a harmonious balance. The rose gold accents also add a touch of luxury and refinement, elevating the watches from mere timekeeping instruments to pieces of wearable art. The use of rose gold is particularly effective on the white model, where the contrast between the warm metal and the cool ceramic is more pronounced.
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The RADO travel pouch, offered as a gift with the purchase of any RADO watch until February 16, 2024, is a practical and stylish accessory that enhances the ownership experience. Designed with elegance and functionality in mind, the pouch provides a safe and secure way to transport and store the watch when not in use. The versatile cushion inside the pouch adapts to any bracelet or strap size, ensuring that the watch is protected from scratches and other damage. The availability of this exclusive offer adds further incentive to purchase a RADO watch during the Valentine's Day season, making it an even more attractive gift option.
Both the black and white versions of the RADO True Round Open Heart watches are priced at $2,500.00. This price point reflects the high-quality materials, the intricate movement, and the craftsmanship involved in their creation. The watches are available for purchase through authorized RADO retailers and on the official RADO website.
Black ModelCase: High-tech ceramic, titanium/PVD, monobloc construction. 40.0 mm diameter, 10.4 mm thickness. Water resistant to 5 bar (50 m). Sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating on both sides.
Movement: Automatic, RADO calibre R734. 80-hour power reserve. Antimagnetic Nivachron hairspring. Movement reference 03.734.532.
Dial: Black, sunray finish. Open-heart design revealing the balance wheel at 12 o'clock. Rose gold-colored hands and indices. RADO moving anchor symbol.
Strap: Black high-tech ceramic bracelet. Titanium folding clasp.
Price: $2,500.00
Reference Number: R27107172
Notes: Weighs 111.6 grams.
White ModelCase: High-tech ceramic, monobloc construction. 40.0 mm diameter, 10.4 mm thickness. Water resistant to 5 bar (50 m). Sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating on both sides.
Movement: Automatic, RADO calibre R734. 80-hour power reserve. Antimagnetic Nivachron hairspring. Movement reference 03.734.532.
Dial: White, sunray finish. Open-heart design revealing the balance wheel at 12 o'clock. Rose gold-colored hands and indices. RADO moving anchor symbol.
Strap: White high-tech ceramic bracelet.
Price: $2,500.00
Reference Number: R27115012
Notes: Weighs 110.7 grams. Part of RADO's 2025 Valentine's Day campaign.