Rado Captain Cook

The Rado Captain Cook collection has become a celebrated emblem in the world of dive watches, tracing its origins to the early 1960s when Rado unveiled its first Captain Cook model. Launched in 1962, the collection quickly captivated adventurers and professionals alike because of its robust design and distinct character. Marketed as the ideal companion for explorers, from doctors to deep-sea divers, Captain Cook was designed for those who valued performance and resilience. This collection’s defining element was its rotating anchor symbol at 12 o’clock as it served as an indicator for servicing.

Design And Collection Breakdown

Since its revival in 2017, the Captain Cook collection has continued to evolve, blending Rado’s heritage with modern advancements. The reintroduction included the original 37mm size, appealing to vintage watch enthusiasts, alongside newer, larger iterations that expanded its appeal. In 2019, Rado introduced a 42mm version, equipped with enhanced water resistance up to 300 metres, ideal for the demands of contemporary explorers. In 2021, Rado showcased their signature expertise in high-tech ceramics with the launch of the Captain Cook High-Tech Ceramic, a 43mm model that pushed the boundaries of durability and aesthetics, setting a new standard for dive watches. This particular model exemplifies Rado’s dedication to using cutting-edge materials, with a full ceramic build that ensures longevity and wear-resistance, embodying the essence of a modern tool watch.

The collection’s design iterations reflect a dynamic interplay between tradition and innovation. Among the notable releases is Rado’s collaboration with French-Austrian designer Marina Hoermanseder, which introduced a unique edition of the Captain Cook with a fashion-forward twist. Known for her bold, vanguard style, Hoermanseder brought a fresh aesthetic to the Captain Cook through a light rose-coloured dial and a white high-tech ceramic bezel. This limited edition seamlessly merges Rado’s technical excellence with Hoermanseder’s distinct artistic vision, resulting in a piece that speaks to both durability and high fashion.