London: The 1960s legacy of Rado’s DiaStar watch continues with modern updates and a collaboration with designer Tej Chauhan. The refreshed collection includes new case sizes and special editions, showcasing innovative materials and aesthetics inspired by the Space Age.
The 1960s marked a pivotal era in watchmaking, reflecting the broader cultural shifts of the time, from the influences of the Swinging ’60s to the Space Age. It was during this dynamic decade that Rado launched its DiaStar watch in 1962, which has recently been revived in contemporary form as the DiaStar Original collection.
As traditional luxurious timepieces evolved into practical tools, Rado’s DiaStar distinguished itself not only through its bold design but also thanks to its innovative materials. This line introduced a unique composite known as ‘hardmetal’, which combined metal with a ceramic to ensure durability and resistance to scratches. Furthermore, the adoption of sapphire crystal—previously not common in watchmaking—marked a significant advancement in the industry.
Now, more than sixty years later, the DiaStar stands as a testament to Rado’s enduring legacy of innovation and creativity. Recently, the brand unveiled two major updates to the DiaStar Original collection, further cementing its status within the watchmaking community.
The first addition features a new 30mm case size, making it the smallest variant in the DiaStar collection, alongside the previously available 38mm size. Crafted in stainless steel, these models showcase platinum-coloured Ceramos bezels and are presented in three vibrant colours: a serene glacial blue, an Art Deco-inspired turquoise, and a striking purple reminiscent of blooming exotic flowers. Each dial showcases a unique finish with vertical and horizontal satin brushing in alternating quadrants, while the signature moving anchor logo—indicative of when servicing is required—remains in place. The models are powered by an automatic movement, offering a power reserve of 48 hours.
Additionally, Rado has introduced a special edition version of the DiaStar Original in collaboration with British industrial designer Tej Chauhan, marking a continuation of their creative partnership that began with the Rado True Square in 2021. Chauhan is recognised for his emotive approach to industrial design and has previously made a significant impact at Nokia, contributing to some of its most notable products.
Chauhan’s inspiration for the DiaStar Original x Tej Chauhan Special Edition is rooted in AI futurescapes and the aesthetics of space films, with design influences drawn from gold space helmets associated with the ’60s. This collaboration features a stainless steel case and Ceramos bezel coated entirely in yellow gold-coloured PVD, while the dial presents a matte black base featuring silver and blue tracks, alongside Superluminova hour and minute hands, complemented by a neon yellow seconds hand. Unique “Party Time indexes” are printed in blue on the 9 to 12 positions, designed to represent special hours throughout the day.
Chauhan took creative liberties with all aspects of the watch design, including custom typography for the date and day windows, which showcase an array of colours to convey his interpretation of the week’s progression. However, Rado CEO Adrian Bosshard specified that the design must incorporate a rubber strap. Chauhan overcame potential associations of sportiness by developing a distinctive pillow-shaped rubber design, which resembles plush furniture more than traditional sportswear, enhancing the overall aesthetic.
Reflecting on the design process, Chauhan noted the unique challenges posed by watchmaking, particularly in working with microns rather than millimetres. He emphasised the precision required in creating the DiaStar Original, such as adjusting the design of watch hands during his first collaboration with Rado due to variations in paint thickness.
Rado’s latest additions to the DiaStar Original collection highlight both the brand’s historical significance and its ongoing commitment to innovative design, linking the rich heritage of the 1960s to contemporary aesthetics.
Source: Noah Wire Services
