Introducing The New Two-Tone Rado Captain Cook Automatic 42mm Models

A star collection for Rado, the specialist in innovative ceramics, the Captain Cook is not only its sportiest model but also the one with the most pronounced retro vibe. In the past years, following the resurrection of this name with a faithful vintage re-edition, Rado has capitalised on the appeal of this design, launching multiple variations. From compact retro versions to contemporary ceramic and openworked models, there’s much to discover within the range. And today, the brand adds two more editions, classics with a twist and a certain flair for cool bling. Here are the two new two-tone PVD gradient editions of the Captain Cook Automatic 42mm. 

Contrary to most of the recent Captain Cook collection launches made from high-tech ceramic cases with advanced specifications or a sportier vibe, these are classic models in stainless steel with closed dials and bracelets. Don’t get me wrong, these are still capable dive-like watches with solid features and very decent specs overall, but these aren’t meant to be as upmarket as a Captain Cook High-Tech Ceramic with an openworked movement.

In short, these models use the same technical base as the bronze collection we reviewed here. And yes, these newest versions are all about looks, marked by a rather demonstrative colour scheme throughout the case, bracelet, bezel and dial. Funky and slightly showy, but it pairs well with the overall retro vibe of the design. Measuring 42mm in diameter with a relatively reasonable 12.3mm height, the Captain Cook Automatic is a sports watch with a diving vibe. As such, it’s equipped with a unidirectional rotating bezel and the collection’s attractive bowl-shaped profile, which contrasts with the domed shape of the sapphire crystal. The crown and the solid steel caseback are screwed, and the water-resistance is rated at 300m.

New to the collection is this combination of colours producing a two-tone effect. The cases and bracelet are made from stainless steel with elements coated in gold PVD – either yellow on the green version or rose on the blue model. This PVD coating is used on the bezel, the crown and the middle links of the bracelet. As a Rado watch, you have to expect some ceramic on the Captain Cook Automatic; green or blue ceramic is featured on the bezel’s insert, laser-engraved with a metallised (gold-coloured) 60-minute scale with numbers and markers.

The funky style continues on the domed dial. Classic for the collection, it features applied markers and hands generously coated in SLN, and all are gold-coloured to match the watch’s exterior. Also, the classic moving anchor mounted on a synthetic ruby is kept. Two colours have been released. First, a rather classic blue dial. Second, a bolder green dial. Both are sunray-brushed and feature a gradient effect.

Inside the case beats calibre Rado R763, the brand’s name for Swatch Group’s Powermatic. This evolution of the 2824 architecture now beats at 3Hz and has an extended power reserve of 80 hours.

Worn on a two-tone PVD steel bracelet with a triple-folding clasp and EasyClip interchangeability system, these new, bold editions of the Rado Captain Cook Automatic 42mm are now available and priced at EUR 2,600. For more details, please visit www.rado.com.