True Square Automatic Blue Ref. R27077202

Rado’s True Square collection takes after the 1990 Rado Ceramica, the brand’s first ever square timepiece constructed out of high-tech plasma ceramic. Challenging the boundaries of what is possible with the innovative use of cutting-edge materials, Rado reimagined the distinctive geometric appearance of the classic model in a groundbreaking high-tech ceramic case produced through injection-moulding technology. As the manufacturer who invented high-tech ceramic timepieces, the Rado True Square packs remarkable upgrades with a smoother, more refined case design and a modern workhorse movement, incorporating the 90s Rado spirit with marvellous contemporary revamps. 

Rado True Square Automatic Blue Ref. R27077202

From a brand that was initially conceived as a small atelier, to become an industry leader for innovation more than a century later. Rado is a well-respected name that is no stranger to the watch world, producing incredibly robust timepieces that pushes the boundaries of what was achievable with luxury watchmaking with top-class Swiss craftsmanship, revolutionary high-tech materials and outstanding timekeeping performance. While originally founded in Lengnau, Biel/Bienne, Switzerland in 1917 as ‘Schlup & Co.’ by brothers Fritz, Ernst and Werner Schlup, it wasn’t until the brand took off in the early 1950s, selling watches under the ‘Rado’ name we’re familiar with today.

Ever since its founding, Rado has fostered the philosophy “if we can imagine it, we can make it”, which still holds true today, reflected by the brand’s highly-durable, innovatively designed timepieces. Rado is perhaps best known for their innovative use of technologically advanced materials, being one of the pioneers in the watchmaking industry adopting high-tech ceramics in their watches. Although the implementation of ceramic is widely seen across innumerable watch brands in this day and age, Rado revolutionized the industry with the birth of the Rado Integral back in 1986 with its use of scratch-resistant high-tech ceramic in the bracelet. 

Driven by the Swiss ETA C07.611 Powermatic 80 movement

For the watchmaking industry, the 1960s was a booming period of valiant exploration and innovation for countless illustrious watch brands, it was arguably the golden age of wristwatches with watch manufacturers delving into unchartered waters when it comes to design and mechanical engineering. The ever-popular dive watch was certainly one of the genres of watches adopted by many major players in the market; and you’ve guessed it, Rado was no exception. 

The gunmetal grey case of the Rado True Square Automatic Blue Ref. R27077202 represents the most iconic material associated with the brand — high-tech ceramic. Constructed out of a single piece of ceramic, the monobloc case is manufactured using an incredibly precise and sophisticated process of Rado’s pioneering injection moulding, an industry-first technology that revolutionized traditional watchmaking. This resulted in an extremely durable, lightweight, hypoallergenic and scratch-resistant case that not only feels silky smooth to the touch, but also visually attractive with its stealth dark appearance. 

High-tech ceramic monobloc case

Measuring with a case diameter of 38mm, a compact lug to lug distance of 48mm and an exceptionally slim case thickness of only 9.6mm. These tasteful dimensions translate into a watch that looks especially elegant on the wrist with minimal bulk. While fundamentally being a square-shaped case, Rado has refined the case with gently rounded corners for a significantly more cohesive design that seamlessly flows down to the integrated bracelet which is also made with the same high-tech ceramic. Needless to say, the whole experience of wearing this piece on the wrist feels immensely comfortable, providing a sensually pleasing feel when the ceramic surface comes into contact with the skin. 

Underneath the scratch-resistant sapphire glass, the Rado True Square Automatic Blue Ref. R27077202 takes a minimalist approach with its radiant sunray blue dial and slim silver hands and indices. While looking rather simple, the dial carries great versatility that holds a timeless appeal that will never go out of style. Despite its dressy nature, Rado the hands and indices are treated with SuperLuminova for enhanced night-time visibility. 

Superluminova for night reading

Under the hood, the Rado True Square Automatic Blue Ref. R27077202 is driven by the Swiss ETA C07.611 self-winding movement based on the ever-reliable Powermatic 80 movement. Featuring a power reserve of a whopping 80 hours, this 25 jewel movement beats at a 3 hertz rate of 21,600 beats per hour (BPH) with hand winding and hacking capabilities. Encased within the closed monobloc case construction, the watch features a water resistance rating of 50m, providing protection against light splashes. 

All in all, the True Square collection from Rado offers a unique style and incredible robustness as a result of the brand’s innovative high-tech ceramic. Every aspect of the watch, from its case down to the bracelet feels exceptionally well designed with consideration to every detail. Square watches are not all that common in today’s market, however, Rado managed to produce a stunning work of art that beautifully excels in design, materials and mechanical performance. 

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