Rado Captain Cook High-Tech Ceramic Chronograph: Navy Blue Ceramic Dive Watch Debuts

Rado Captain Cook High-Tech Ceramic Chronograph: A Naval Tribute in Navy Blue

Rado continues to push the boundaries of material innovation with the 2026 release of the Captain Cook High-Tech Ceramic Chronograph in maritime navy blue. This marks the latest evolution of the Captain Cook family, which has served as a showcase for Rado's expertise in high-tech ceramic since its modern revival in 2017.

High-Tech Plasma Ceramic: The Material Story

The Captain Cook Chronograph's monobloc case and bracelet are crafted from high-tech plasma ceramic. To produce the futuristic liquid-metal appearance, white ceramic is fired at extreme temperatures of 20,000 degrees. The resulting material features an intriguing metallic grey, almost pearlescent surface that is harder than steel at 1,250 Vickers, impervious to scratches, and light and silky to the touch.

Despite its imposing 43mm diameter, 16.2mm height, and 49.8mm lug-to-lug measurement, the use of high-tech plasma ceramic reduces the total weight to just 169 grams — significantly lighter than a comparable steel watch would be.

Key Specifications

Rose Gold Accents and Naval Design

The sturdy 300m water-resistant case is enhanced with rose gold-coloured PVD-coated details on the large screw-down pushers and crown, as well as the notched bezel area. In true naval style, the gold accents complement the crisp navy blue dial and bezel. The polished navy blue high-tech ceramic bezel insert features markings filled with white Super-LumiNova for excellent legibility.

In homage to the original 1962 Captain Cook, the bezel slopes inwards, and the dial is protected by a box-shaped sapphire crystal. The slightly recessed chronograph counters feature snailed frames with white markings and brushed interiors, while the iconic pivoting anchor appears at noon against a synthetic ruby background.

Chronograph Movement: Rado R801

Powering the Captain Cook Chronograph is the Rado calibre R801, a modular chronograph based on the ETA A31. This robust automatic movement features a Nivachron anti-magnetic hairspring, operates at 4Hz (28,800vph), and delivers a 59-hour power reserve. The 37-jewel movement includes a 12-hour totaliser at 6 o'clock, 30-minute counter at 9 o'clock, and a date window with white background and red numerals.

Rado's Legacy in Ceramic Innovation

Rado has been at the forefront of ceramic watchmaking since introducing the world's first scratch-proof ceramic watch, the Rado Integral, in 1986. The Captain Cook family, revived in 2017 after its 1962 debut, has become a primary vehicle for the brand's material experiments. Previous iterations have included skeleton models in olive green, black and gold, and blue ceramic with orange accents.

FAQ: Rado Captain Cook High-Tech Ceramic

What makes high-tech plasma ceramic different from regular ceramic?

High-tech plasma ceramic is fired at extreme temperatures of 20,000 degrees, creating a metallic grey, pearlescent surface that is harder than steel (1,250 Vickers) while remaining lightweight and scratch-resistant.

Is the Captain Cook Chronograph suitable for professional diving?

Yes, with 300 meters of water resistance, screw-down pushers and crown, and a unidirectional ceramic bezel, the Captain Cook Chronograph meets professional dive watch specifications.

How does the ceramic bracelet compare to steel?

The ceramic bracelet is significantly lighter than steel while being harder and more scratch-resistant. The matte finish with polished middle links provides a sophisticated appearance that resists everyday wear marks.

Sources: Monochrome Watches

Related: Dive Watch Buying Guide | Watch Materials Guide