Hot Take: Rado Captain Cook Automatic 2019
Today, we have news of the Rado Captain Cook Automatic 2019, a subtle update to a favorite that first debuted at Baselworld 2017.
At Baselworld 2017, Rado truly surprised the watch media by reintroducing a long-forgotten name, the Captain Cook. First introduced in 1962, the 35mm stainless steel diver had classic looks, decent capabilities and a specific trait that’s highly desired by collectors: an inward sloping bezel. We reviewed an original model a couple years back here on Fratello and you can see it above.
Rado Captain Cook 2017
Rado Captain Cook – A Well Played Reissue
The 2017 model brought things into this millennium – but just barely – by upsizing the case to a still modest 37mm and by adding some Rado flair with the same unique bezel, but made out of the brand’s signature Hyperchrome. For 2019, we get a slight update to the 2017 model with the Rado Captain Cook Automatic 2019.
The Rado Captain Cook Automatic 2019
Said to be inspired by a watch within the brand’s own archives that developed a patinated dial, the new Rado Captain Cook Automatic 2019 receives a brown sun-brushed dial. Whereas the 2017 model contained a dark gray, it should be known that most Cooks one finds for sale actually contain a serious level of aging consistent with what you’ll get with this new model.
The Rado Captain Cook Automatic 2019 keeps the same 37mm case, 100M water resistance, and box-shaped sapphire crystal. That same lovely case back with the three seahorses also returns.
1,962 Pieces and $2,100
Unlike the prior model, though, this one will come with a leather carrying case, strap changing tool, mesh bracelet, and NATO-style strap. Inside, the 25-jewel automatic ETA C07.611 sees duty and has a date function. 1,962 pieces will be available just like the original and the retail price will be $2,100.
Normally, the release of what basically amounts to a dial color change wouldn’t garner a whole lot of attention (or our use of stock images), but when a watch is this good, it deserves mention. The Rado Captain Cook Automatic 2019 uses a wonderful case and has such a perfectly simple design, that I was a bit saddened that the 2017 release was here and gone. Yes, I know that one can still find a few 2017 pieces on places like eBay (and they’re such a good deal), but it’s nice to see this overall composition return and with a dial that’s actually in keeping with the original aesthetic.
One of our Favorite Vintage-Inspired Divers
I’d go as far to say that along with the Doxa SUB 300 “no T” case that the brand released a few years back – and continued to come out with variations until last year – this Rado ranks as one of the top recent vintage style divers. Plus, with its well-played blend of modern materials, it’s an easy everyday wear.
For more details, head to Rado’s official site.
