Swiss watchmaker Rado specialise in high-tech ceramic watches that are simultaneously durable and beautiful. With timepieces that are meant to last a lifetime and more, Rado have a rich and proud history of innovation that has made them stand out in the watchmaking world.
Rado watches lean towards a minimalist aesthetic which, combined with cutting-edge materials technology, will make you think the brand is younger than it is. Since its inception, the ground-breaking watchmaker has captivated watch aficionados worldwide with an innovative spirit, unique aesthetics and technological developments, which have put the brand well ahead of its time.
History of Rado
Rado were founded in 1917 by brothers Fritz, Ernst and Werner Schlup. The company’s history began in the small town of Lengnau in Switzerland when the brothers opened Schlup & Co, a clockwork shop. This atelier was created from a converted part of their parents’ home.
While the Rado trademark was registered in 1928, for the first decades of operation, the Schlup brothers focused only on producing watch movements. Schlup & Co started selling watches under the Rado brand in the 1950s; in 1957, they became Rado Uhren AG, and the Rado Collection was soon born. By the end of the decade, Rado were already an international brand with a presence in more than 61 countries.
The brand may have had humble beginnings but, by the end of the Second World War, the factory was one of the largest producers of watch movements in the world. Today, Rado are known for their focus on ceramics, water-resistant technologies and high-tech materials. The Swiss watchmaker has also received several international design awards for their unconventional aesthetics.
Centrix Collection
The Rado Centrix collection is incredibly versatile. With different sizes and colour combinations to choose from, you are sure to find a watch that will suit your tastes. The state-of-the-art sapphire crystal and the high-tech ceramic with stainless steel guarantee that every piece in the collection will last a generation. The Centrix range is suited for everyone seeking modern luxury without compromising comfort; the high-tech, scratch-resistant materials make each watch a lightweight wonder that is a true pleasure to wear.
The Rado Centrix 38mm watch is one such piece in the collection. This unisex model comes with the signature Rado sapphire crystal that makes it durable and scratch-resistant, as well as a steel and PVD bracelet and case. The piece also comes with water-resistance of up to 30 metres and quartz movement.
Rado Watches
Rado’s innovative use of state-of-the-art materials allows them to stand out from other Swiss brands. By the 1960s, they were already using uncommon materials, such as carbide and sapphire glass, in their timepieces, and today they continue to focus on light, sturdy and scratch-resistant materials.
The watchmaker has used ceramic since 1986, due to the versatility and strength of the material, adding it to almost every Rado timepiece. The brand’s sleek designs and elegant minimalism gives each watch a unique aesthetic. Rado’s watch catalogue is extensive and ranges from dress watches and retro pieces to skeleton models and chronographs. All pieces are powered by mechanical automatic movements or quartz movements.
This use of unique, one-of-a-kind materials on two of the brand’s most popular ranges, the HyperChrome and the Centrix collection, elevates them to new heights and have given Rado the title “The Master of Materials”.
Rado at Banks Lyon
Rado watches showcase pure Swiss craftsmanship and luxury at affordable prices. We’re proud to stock a vast selection of Rado watches you can explore here at Banks Lyon, from the True range to the Integral collection.
To this day, this globally recognised brand continues its visionary use of cutting-edge materials and unique styles, ensuring each piece blends performance with durability and comfort. Most Rado watches display a minimalist style that is truly iconic; an understated elegance that is, nonetheless, stunning and eye-catching at the same time.
Visit our Lancaster and Kendal stores to see the beautiful Rado timepieces for yourself or browse any of our other world-renowned brands.