Ben Zachariah
Synonymous with ceramic watches, Rado are rightfully considered an industry leader in the field, so it was big news at Baselworld last year when they announced the first ever brown ceramic models.What makes the rich brown so special is that the ceramic powder is imbued with the colour before it's fired, rather than being coated with a surface colour. It's a complicated process, particularly when you consider that components shrink by 23% during the kiln sintering stage. But the result is a case that shows different hues under different lights, warms to the wearer's skin temperature, is scratch resistant and super light. Definitely worth the effort.The new brown cases will initially be offered on three models from Rado's popular HyperChrome collection the three-handed HyperChrome Automatic pictured here, the Automatic Tachymeter chronograph and a ladies' piece with a diamond-set rose gold bezel.Both the Automatic and Automatic Tachymeter models see the brown partnered with softer tones of rose coloured PVD stainless steel. The 45mm Automatic Tachymeter is limited to 1000 pieces. The HyperChrome Automatic is slightly smaller at 42mm, and uses the ever-reliable ETA 2892-A2 movement.You can't look at the rich, glossy case and bracelet of the HyperChrome and not instantly think of chocolate – and this is one variety that won't pile on the kilos.Rado HyperChrome Automatic Australian pricingThe HyperChrome Automatic in brown ceramic has an RRP of $4825.Images by Jason Reekie.
07.01.16