Master of Materials: Rado’s Art of Ceramic

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A symphony of durability and comfort delivers, these protective creations are a perfect harmony of innovation, materials and design. Gentle, light and resistant to wear-and-tear, cases utilise such high-tech materials as Ceramos ™ and Plasma High-Tech Ceramic, as well as the monobloc construction – which fastens the primary movement components directly into the case, an attribution credited to only the Swiss maison – ensuring each piece can last until eternity.

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Producing such intricate designs can only come about through the meticulous production process – one that requires utmost precision, skill, and, above all else, loving care. The method begins by creating a mould which is then injected and heated at 1,450°C for several hours to reach its maximum hardness and colour intensity. For Plasma High-Tech Ceramic, the components then undergo an additional oven treatment to transform its stark white hue to a sleek metallic finish. During this process, the case shrinks by 23 percent, after which it is machined down to achieve the accurate final dimensions required.

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Moving onto the polishing, and the components are bathed in high-frequency vibrations to produce an exceptional shine, while precision-sandblasting bequeathes it an even matte finish. Meanwhile, the finer details of the case are further treated with engraving and lacquering processes as required before undergoing a rigorous inspection to ensure every piece meets Rado’s specific standards. The end result are timepieces that blend innovation and modern beauty with the finest watchmaking skills.