Rado watches: history, innovations and best models
Rado watches: history, innovations and best models
The Radowatches brand was officially launched in 1950, but the company was initially founded in 1917, in Lengnau.
Created under the name Schlup & Co., by brothers Fritz, Ernst and Werner Schlup, it was initially conceived as a small atelier, to become among the largest producers of mechanical movements by the end of the Second World War, and began selling RADO branded watches only in 1950.
It is in 1962, however, that RADO adds an essential milestone to its history, by launching the world's ever first scratch-resistant watch, the DiaStar 1. The DiaStar 1 introduced two world premieres in modern watchmaking: the world's first case made of Hardmetal, and the sapphire crystal.
From that moment on, the brand was regarded to as a pioneer in creating and adopting technologically advanced materials, such as Hi-Techceramics, ultra-lightceramics and special alloys such as Ceramos.
1976: Rado introduces the Glissiére.
With the DIA67 Glissière, Rado crafted a watch whose glass fully covered the case from side to side.
1986: Rado Integral.
The Rado Integral is the first application ever of High-Tech ceramics in watchmaking.
1990: Rado Ceramica.
The Rado Ceramica is the first timepiece entirely made of High-Tech ceramics.
1993: Rado Sintra.
The Rado Sintra is the first RADO ever to adopt Titanium carbide for case and bracelet.
2002: Rado V10K.
Rado debuts the first timepiece to boast a 10,000Vickers hardness.
Horbiter® offers extensive coverage of Rado watches, including high-quality photos and videos.
Rado boasts today the highest number of patents when it comes to new materials, that are coupled to minimalistic design, to offer comfort on the wrist and high resistance to wear. Horbiter® has widely covered all the Rado collections so far and has produced exclusive videos like the Rado Star Prize in Milan, in 2017. In this dedicated page, you will also find a direct link to our watch catalog and those products that are milestones in the brand's history. Rado watches are strictly connected to the introduction of ceramics in watchmaking, and the brand has invested consistently in developing innovative materials and cutting-edge technologies.
Here is a list of the most recent articles regarding Rado watches, on Horbiter®: