In the realm of watchmaking, where tradition often intertwines with innovation,
Rado has consistently carved its own path. Known for its pioneering use of high-tech ceramic, the Swiss brand has time and again pushed the boundaries of design and materials, redefining what a luxury timepiece can be. Now, Rado has once again captured the attention of watch enthusiasts with the introduction of the True Square Automatic Open Heart Diamond watches - a limited edition collection that marries the brand's signature material with a striking black and white aesthetic.
Rado's journey began in 1917 in the small Swiss town of Lengnau, where three brothers - Fritz, Ernst, and Werner Schlup - founded Schlup & Co., a watch movement manufacturer. Over the years, the company grew and evolved, eventually launching its own brand, Rado, in 1957. From the outset, Rado distinguished itself with a focus on innovation and design. In 1962, the brand unveiled the DiaStar 1, the world's first scratch-resistant watch, crafted from hardmetal - a tungsten carbide alloy. This groundbreaking timepiece set the stage for Rado's future endeavors, establishing the brand as a pioneer in the use of unconventional materials.
Courtesy of Rado
Throughout the decades that followed, Rado continued to push the envelope, introducing watches made from ceramics, sapphire crystal, and even high-tech diamonds. The brand's commitment to innovation earned it numerous accolades and a loyal following among watch collectors who appreciated its unique blend of style and technology.
In recent years, Rado has further solidified its reputation for cutting-edge design with the True Square collection. Launched in 2019, the True Square is the brand's first watch to feature a square case crafted from a single piece of high-tech ceramic. This innovative construction method not only showcases Rado's technical prowess but also results in a timepiece that is both lightweight and incredibly durable. The True Square's sleek, minimalist design has quickly become a modern classic, appealing to those who appreciate contemporary aesthetics and high-performance materials.
With the introduction of the True Square Automatic Open Heart Diamond watches, Rado has once again demonstrated its ability to surprise and delight. This limited edition collection comprises two models - one in black ceramic with white accents, and the other in white ceramic with black accents. Both watches feature a captivating open heart dial that reveals the intricate workings of the automatic movement within. The dial is further adorned with twelve diamond hour markers, adding a touch of luxury to the design.
Courtesy of Rado
The True Square Automatic Open Heart Diamond watches are not simply a rehash of existing models; they represent a bold new expression of Rado's design philosophy. The use of contrasting black and white ceramic creates a visually striking effect, while the open heart dial and diamond accents elevate the timepieces to a new level of sophistication. These watches are a testament to Rado's unwavering commitment to innovation and its ability to create timepieces that are both technically impressive and aesthetically pleasing.
The image showcases the two watches in the collection, side by side. The contrast between the black and white models is immediately apparent, creating a visual tension that draws the eye. The square cases, crafted from a single piece of high-tech ceramic, exude a sense of modernity and sophistication. The open heart dials, with their exposed balance wheels and intricate gears, offer a glimpse into the mechanical heart of each watch. The diamond hour markers, carefully placed around the dial, add a touch of glamour without overwhelming the overall design.
Courtesy of Rado
The bracelets, also made from high-tech ceramic, seamlessly integrate with the cases, creating a cohesive and elegant look. The combination of polished and matte finishes on the ceramic surfaces adds depth and visual interest. The overall impression is one of refined luxury and technical mastery. These watches are not simply timekeeping devices; they are wearable works of art that reflect Rado's dedication to pushing the boundaries of design and materials.
At the core of each True Square Automatic Open Heart Diamond lies the caliber 03.734.431, an automatic movement that exemplifies Rado's commitment to precision and reliability. This robust engine boasts an impressive 80-hour power reserve, ensuring that your watch keeps accurate time even after days of rest. The open heart design allows for a mesmerizing view of the balance wheel oscillating at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour, a testament to the watch's mechanical prowess.
But the movement isn't just about performance—it's also a feast for the eyes. The rhodium-colored bridges and gears, meticulously finished with circular graining and beveling, showcase the artistry that goes into every Rado timepiece. The oscillating weight, visible through the sapphire crystal case back, is adorned with special engraving denoting the limited edition status of each watch.
Courtesy of Rado
Rado's mastery of high-tech ceramic is on full display in the True Square Automatic Open Heart Diamond. The case, measuring a comfortable 38mm in diameter, is crafted from a single piece of this innovative material, resulting in a seamless and incredibly durable construction. High-tech ceramic is not only scratch-resistant but also hypoallergenic and lightweight, making it ideal for everyday wear.
The two models in the collection offer a striking contrast in color schemes. The white model features a pristine white ceramic case and bracelet, complemented by a black and white dial and black diamond hour markers. The black model, on the other hand, boasts a sleek black ceramic case and bracelet, accented by a black and white dial and white diamond hour markers. Both models feature a sandblasted titanium case back, providing a subtle contrast to the polished ceramic surfaces.
The dial of the True Square Automatic Open Heart Diamond is a masterpiece of design, balancing intricate details with a clean, uncluttered aesthetic. The open heart aperture, positioned at 12 o'clock, reveals the beating heart of the movement, while the rhodium-colored bevels surrounding the aperture create a sense of depth and dimension.
Courtesy of Rado
The dial is further adorned with twelve diamond hour markers—eight white Top Wesselton diamonds and four black diamonds—adding a touch of luxury and refinement. The rhodium-colored moving anchor symbol, a signature Rado element, floats gracefully above the open heart aperture, while the silver-printed Rado and black-printed Automatic logos discreetly confirm the watch's identity.
With only 888 pieces available in each color, the Rado True Square Automatic Open Heart Diamond is a true collector's item. Each watch is individually numbered, further enhancing its exclusivity. Priced at $3,150, these timepieces offer exceptional value for those seeking a unique blend of design, innovation, and Swiss craftsmanship.