Captain Cook, for many years now, is one of the most important models in Rado’s collection. Back in 2017, I did a hands-on review of the HyperChrome Captain Cook 37 mm, which was a modern re-edition of a popular model introduced in 1962. A year later, Captain Cook was experimenting with a completely new design with the Mark III Automatic, followed by the Tradition Captain Cook 42 mm, which I reviewed here. A few months ago, Rado unveiled the Captain Cook bronze burgundy, a very interesting model featuring a 42 mm bronze case combo with a burgundy sunray dial and ceramic bezel. Yet, in my opinion, among all these watches, the new Captain Cook High-Tech Ceramic is probably the most representative for Rado. Let’s see why.

It is a well-known fact that Rado is a master of materials, always exploring new venues, new possibilities and unexpected combinations. In this price range, they are one of the most innovative brands, when it comes to technology and design. High-tech ceramic is a material that is mastered by Rado that perfected this technology and developed over the years new colours. Having the new Captain Cook crafted using this material, I think it makes it the ultimate Rado watch.

It got bigger, it is now 43 mm and it comes in four versions. The first version has a black high-tech ceramic case and bracelet with a hardened stainless steel turning bezel and black high-tech ceramic insert. A second model holds this same case and dial but is offered with a rubber strap for those who prefer a more casual look. A third version is offered similarly in black high-tech ceramic case and bracelet but with contrasting rose gold coloured PVD coated stainless steel turning bezel, and black high-tech ceramic insert. Followed by the fourth model, a highly distinct plasma high-tech ceramic case and bracelet, with hardened stainless steel bezel, and blue high-tech ceramic insert.

Despite their larger size, having been made from ceramic and titanium, the new Captain Cook is very comfortable on the wrist.

They are all powered by the Rado calibre R734, with 80 hours of power reserve. The dial and case back are stunningly crafted in black-tinted sapphire crystal allowing its wearer to explore and admire the inner workings of the skeletonised movement in a subtle manner, whilst still proving to be legible. This semitransparent dial combined with a skeleton movement reminds me of another Rado, the True Open Heart, which had its dial made from a thin layer of black mother of pearl, revealing just a little bit the skeleton movement powering the watch. I loved that watch and I find it amazing that the new Captain Cook uses the same approach. You get the best of both worlds, a clean, legible dial and you get to admire the inner workings of the movement.

Prices in Canada, vary from $4,320 for the black ceramic model on a rubber strap, the same watch on a ceramic bracelet with titanium 3-fold clasp is $4,710, the rose gold version is $4,840, while the plasma high-tech ceramic model is $4,970. You can find them at your local Rado dealer or online at www.rado.com.