How do you make a great watch better? You show the world how it works—in Rado’s case, skeletonise it. Only one year after the Rado DiaStar’s 60th anniversary when the brand reintroduced the watch in a Ceramos case, Rado is back at it again with a new iteration: the Rado DiaStar Original Skeleton.
The DiaStar has been iconic, to say the least. When it first debuted in 1962, the watch featured a distinct case design that was famously scratch proof thanks to its tungsten-carbide case. Its futuristic design—which was way before its time—strengthened Rado’s position as a visionary of watch designs. In 2022, the brand made the move to switch the DiaStar’s hard metal case with Ceramos—a ceramic and metal composite—making the iconic watch just as durable, only this time, it was much lighter.
This September’s newest edition—the DiaStar Original Skeleton—extends Rado’s “The Art of Skeletonisation” creative concept and showcases the R808 automatic calibre in all its glory. The movement is coated in anthracite-grey alongside the other coloured elements inside the movements, creating a juxtaposition of shades and materials that pleases the eye. But the movement isn’t the only design element that Rado has put thought into for the DiaStar Original Skeleton.
The bicolour components in the hands and indices not only add contrast, but it’s also treated with white Super-LumiNova for better readability in low-light conditions. All these can be visually appreciated by the wearer thanks to sapphire crystal windows encasing the watch on the front and back. With 80 hours of power reserve and an antimagnetic Nivachron hairspring to keep your time precise and reliable, you will never be fashionably late while wearing this watch.
Moving on from the case, no detail is spared even in the bracelet. Comfort takes as much importance as visual aesthetics, with the triple-row polished stainless steel sitting comfortably on the wrist, held together by an H-link design with alternating polished and brushed elements.
While the DiaStar Original Skeleton is decidedly masculine in its design, the 38mm case makes it a great timepiece for women to consider too, if they appreciate an androgynous style. After all, a beautiful skeletonised movement is for all to enjoy.
This article was first published in Grazia Malaysia’s September 2023 issue.