Rado’s Captain Cook watches have become some of the most well-known timepieces in the horological industry. However, not many collectors are aware of the history behind these iconic watches. This ultimate guide to Rado’s Captain Cook watches will explore the history of the collection and delve into the different Captain Cook models that have been created throughout the years. This collection is perhaps the biggest and most loved within Rado’s portfolio. The brand is consistently working to develop the timepieces and has collaborated with celebrity names to add new styles to the collection. The Captain Cook watches have retained their signature look for decades and have become a coveted timepiece for collectors worldwide. If you are interested in these luxury models, keep reading for our ultimate guide to Rado’s Captain Cook watches.
The History of the Captain Cook Collection
In recent years, the Captain Cook has become the natural choice for modern explorers. However, the iconic design of these timepieces first came to be decades ago. The first-ever Rado Captain Cook watch was unveiled in 1962. The watch was named after the British explorer, James Cook. Its most distinctive feature was the pivoting anchor. This has now become the symbol of the Captain Cook collection. In the original model, this anchor was mounted on a lubricated ruby bearing. When the anchor stopped moving, the wearer would know that it was time to have the watch serviced. The design of this timepiece is what inspires the vintage details and advanced features of today’s Captain Cook models.
It was not until 2017 that the Captain Cook watch was relaunched. This new version stayed true to the original with a smaller 37mm case size. However, Rado modernised many features of the watch, making it more useful to the modern watch wearer. A larger case size was introduced in 2019. This new model has a 42mm case and was updated to be water-resistant up to 30 bar. This meant that the Captain Cook could now be worn for diving, introducing the collection to a whole new demographic. This new version was a huge hit with contemporary watch wearers and modern explorers. Rado introduced its signature High-Tech Ceramic to the Captain Cook design in 2021 in a 43mm case size. This set a new benchmark with an iconic watch design being made in a signature material.
The Captain Cook Collection
Rado’s Captain Cook watches are a staple in any watch collection. They are adored internationally and have become a symbol of watchmaking excellence. The collection features several sub-categories with different designs that ensure that there is a perfect Captain Cook watch for every collector. Over the years, there have been collaborative watches and special edition models in this iconic design alongside the staple styles within the collection.
High-Tech Ceramic Diver
The Captain Cook High-Tech Ceramic Diver is suited to oceans, nordic forests or alpine wilderness. This is the perfect model to be worn in any kind of challenging environment. This design is a culmination of decades of research and development and was eagerly anticipated by fans of the brand. These watches combine the latest in High-Tech Ceramic production and Rado’s most innovative watchmaking to produce high-quality and reliable timepieces.
RADO Captain Cook High-Tech Ceramic Diver Black Rubber Strap R32129158
This model exhibits an all-black colour palette, giving it a very striking appearance on the wrist. The dial of the watch is detailed with baton indices with silver hands and a date display. The details of the dial are treated with luminous material to ensure that they can be read when underwater. A black ceramic insert is set into the stainless steel bezel that frames the dial. This perfectly matches the black 43mm High-Tech Ceramic case. This case houses the automatic movement that powers the watch. This movement provides the watch with a power reserve of up to 80 hours. This model is finished with a black rubber strap that will be comfortable to wear for all occasions.
Over-Pole
The Captain Cook Over-Pole watch is a limited edition timepiece. It is a departure from other models in the collection as it features a worldtimer feature. The names of various cities around the world are engraved into the bezel of the watch giving it a very striking appearance. Additionally, the watch is presented in a stylish brown pouch, making it a beautiful collector’s item.
RADO Captain Cook Over-Pole Mechanical Watch R32116158
This limited edition model features an attractive grey gradient dial that moves from white to black as it approaches the outer edges. The dial is detailed with the collection’s iconic anchor alongside baton hour markers and a date aperture. The case of this watch is crafted from stainless steel to provide a durable and long-lasting finish. This model is provided with two strap options. The first is a classic brown leather strap that is detailed with white contrast stitching. The second is a stainless steel bracelet that is designed with a rice grain style for a distinctive look. This model is powered by a hand-wound movement and is water-resistant up to 100 metres.
High-Tech Ceramic
The High-Tech Ceramic variation of the Captain Cook watches is perhaps the most iconic within the collection. This is the watch that most people think of when considering Rado’s most iconic watch designs. The watches in this category are the culmination of years of research and development that is combined with the history and tradition of the Rado Captain Cook.
RADO Captain Cook High-Tech Ceramic Blue Dial R32128202
This watch exhibits an attractive blue bezel that is made from a ceramic insert within stainless steel. This bezel framed a transparent dial that allows the wearer to enjoy the mechanics of the automatic movement that powers the watch. The dial is protected by a black-tinted sapphire crystal that has been treated with an anti-reflective coating. Both the case and bracelet of this watch are made from grey High-Tech Ceramic, giving the watch a luxurious and unique finish. This model is water-resistant up to 300 metres, making it suitable for most water-based activities.
Bronze
This special edition version of the Rado Captain Cook uses the oldest manmade alloy to create a truly eye-catching watch. Bronze is combined with some of the best materials and technologies in modern watchmaking to create a bold and unique timepiece. The flawless physique of this watch will ensure it is the centrepiece of any look.
RADO Captain Cook Automatic Bronze Burgundy R32504407
The combination of bold red and warm bronze tones used in the design of this watch combine to create a striking and elegant timepiece. The case of this watch is made from bronze High-Tech Ceramic, giving this unique model the same high-quality finish that is found in the rest of the Captain Cook collection. The watch has a bold red dial that is detailed with gold hour markers and gold hands. A red bezel framed the dial and furthers the vibrant red colour scheme. The dial is protected by anti-reflective sapphire crystal, giving it s scratch resistant finish. This model is secured on the wrist using a red NATO-style strap that is detailed with a gold strap through its centre.
What did you learn from the ultimate guide to Rado’s Captain Cook watches? Do you have a Captain Cook watch in your collection? Let us know in the comments!
