Rado Captain Cook Gold Dial: First Look at the Sparkling New 39mm Dive Watch

Rado's Captain Cook collection, revived in 2017, has become a cornerstone of the brand's modern lineup. Originally launched in 1962, the model has evolved into a diverse family that includes compact vintage-inspired divers, high-tech ceramic editions, skeleton watches, and chronographs. Rado has consistently experimented with materials, colors, and finishes while maintaining the distinctive character of its retro dive watch. The latest addition to this storied line introduces a captivating golden dial that adds a fresh, luxurious personality to the versatile 39mm Captain Cook series.

Case and Construction

The new Captain Cook retains the stainless steel case that serves as a middle ground between the smaller 37mm and larger 43mm versions. With a diameter of 39mm, a lug-to-lug measurement of 45.5mm, and a thickness of 12mm, the watch offers proportions that suit a wide variety of wrists without sacrificing the robust presence expected from a capable dive watch. Water resistance remains at an impressive 300 meters, thanks to the screw-down crown and caseback, making this timepiece far more than just a stylish everyday accessory.

The polished case features a rotating bezel in yellow gold-colored PVD-coated steel, paired with a polished black high-tech ceramic bezel insert. The insert is adorned with white Super-LumiNova-filled numerals and markers, ensuring excellent legibility in low-light conditions. A box-shaped sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating on both sides completes the package, offering the pleasant edge distortion that enthusiasts have come to appreciate in vintage-inspired designs.

The Sparkling Gold Dial

For this release, Rado has developed a new dial finish using a multi-stage process that produces a sparkling, diamond-powder-like golden surface. The textured finish constantly changes with the light, creating the impression of movement with every turn of the wrist. This effect is bold and slightly extravagant, offering an unexpected guise for the otherwise familiar Captain Cook layout.

Despite its striking appearance, the dial retains all the practical elements that make the Captain Cook a reliable tool watch. Large applied indices receive yellow gold-colored PVD treatment and are filled with white Super-LumiNova, while the broad hands ensure excellent readability. The signature moving anchor logo continues to rotate below 12 o'clock, a nod to the brand's maritime heritage, and the date window remains conveniently positioned at 3 o'clock.

Movement and Performance

Powering the watch is the familiar automatic calibre R763, which is based on the ETA C07.611 'Powermatic 80' movement with a branded rotor. Beating at 21,600 vibrations per hour, it delivers a generous 80-hour power reserve and incorporates a Nivachron balance spring for improved resistance to magnetic fields. This movement is known for its reliability and accuracy, making it a trusted choice for everyday wear.

Straps and Pricing

The new Rado Captain Cook reference is supplied with a stainless steel bracelet and a black textured rubber strap. The bracelet combines brushed outer links with polished rice-grain centre links, continuing the vintage inspiration while offering exceptional comfort. Using Rado's EasyClip quick-release system, changing to the supplied rubber strap requires no tools, allowing for effortless versatility.

The price for this new model is set at CHF 2,450, positioning it as an accessible luxury option within the Captain Cook lineup. The watch is part of the permanent collection, ensuring availability for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Technical Specifications

• Case: 39mm diameter x 45.5mm lug-to-lug x 12mm thick – polished stainless steel case – yellow gold-colored PVD-coated rotating bezel with polished black high-tech ceramic insert – box-shaped sapphire crystal with AR coating on both sides – screw-down crown and caseback – 300m water resistance
• Dial: Yellow gold-colored dial with sparkling diamond-powder-like finish – applied yellow gold-colored PVD indices with white Super-LumiNova – hands with white Super-LumiNova – moving anchor logo – date at 3 o'clock
• Movement: Rado calibre R763 (ETA C07.611) – automatic – 25 jewels – 21,600vph – Nivachron balance spring – 80-hour power reserve – hours, minutes, central seconds, date
• Bracelet: Stainless steel EasyClip bracelet with folding clasp – additional black rubber strap with stainless steel pin buckle
• Reference: R32223258
• Availability: Permanent collection
• Price: CHF 2,450

The new Rado Captain Cook with its shimmering gold dial is a testament to Rado's ability to blend heritage with innovation. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the world of luxury dive watches, this model offers a unique combination of vintage charm, modern mechanics, and eye-catching aesthetics that is sure to turn heads.