Recently, Rado announced an all-new Les Couleurs™ Le Corbusier collection which fuses two of its most popular lines. Combining the True Thinline and True Square collections, the new launches benefit from a slim silhouette with a classic Rado square case. This release includes three versatile colourways, which take inspiration from Le Corbusier’s iconic Architectural Polychromy. And, with each one limited to 999 pieces, these new models are a true collector’s item for watch fans and architecture enthusiasts alike. So, without further ado, let’s delve into these exciting new Rado True Square Thinline x Le Corbusier releases.
First of all, who is Le Corbusier?
Widely regarded as one of the most influential designers of the 20th century, Le Corbusier was a Swiss-French architect. Like Rado, Le Corbusier was born in Switzerland, specifically in the Jura Mountains in 1887.
As an architect, Le Corbusier’s reputation lies in his revolutionary purist style and unique treatment of light. Over his career, he worked on a vast amount of successful projects, many of which still stand today. In fact, many of his works attract visitors from all over the world. Most notably, these include the Unité d’habitation in Marseille and Villa Savoye in Poissy, both of which are now UNESCO World Heritage sites.
However, Le Corbusier is not just known for his groundbreaking architecture. He is also remembered for the palette of 63 colours he created between 1931 and 1959, the Architectural Polychromy. He identified these colours as being “architectural, naturally harmonious and able to be combined in any way”. Nearing 100 years since its creation, these 63 colours are yet to become outdated, and his proclamation imopressively still rings true.
This is not the first time Rado has looked towards the famed architect for inspiration. A few years ago, the brand’s True Thinline Les Couleurs™ Le Corbusier watches saw the Thinline collection adopt Le Corbusier’s evocative colour palette. In 2023, the collaboration returns for an even more exciting new range.
Core Features of the Rado True Square Thinline x Le Corbusier Releases
Case and Dial
Retaining the namesake essence of Rado’s True Square collection, these new Le Corbusier models feature a square case. At a versatile 37mm width, each case takes the True Thinline collection’s slim profile of just 5mm. Each case uses Rado’s signature high-tech ceramic, which boasts a durable build that solidifies the brand’s reputation as the ‘master of materials’.
Meanwhile, the dials across the three colourways follow a similar core design. In slightly varying hues, each model features a dark dial with complementary slim baton indices and matching hands. For instance, enhancing the brown undertones of the first model’s burnt umber case and sunray dial are cream baton indices and hands (R27046172). Whereas, on the second model, the dial is a cooler grey dial with turquoise indices and hands (R27045162). Lastly, the final model features an all-over back design complete with black indices and hands (R27062152). So, whilst tying in the colours of the Architectural Polychromy, the resultant watches echo the cohesive and conscientious principles behind Le Corbusier’s famous designs too.
Movement and Finishing Touches
There are also many attentive finishing touches. For a final seal of protection, a sapphire crystal encases each of the dials. Overleaf, the case backs are branded with Le Corbusier’s signature encircled by the Architectural Polychromic wheel, giving each piece an air of exclusivity.
Adding to the collection’s effortless elegance is the monobloc construction of each model’s bracelets. On the black model, this features a trendy and versatile monochrome colour scheme (R27062152). However, on the two colourful models, the bracelet has a more playful twist. Whilst the bracelet’s main colour matches the case and dial, the brighter accent colour replaces its central links.
Finally, at their heart, Rado’s reliable R420 quartz calibre keeps each watch running smoothly.
What do you think of these brand-new Rado True Square Thinline x Le Corbusier releases, will you be indulging in one for yourself? Let us know in the comments below.
