Hot Take: Rado Captain Cook Automatic 2019

January 17, 2022

Today, we have news of the Rado Captain Cook Automatic 2019, a subtle update to a favorite that first debuted at Baselworld 2017.At Baselworld 2017, Rado truly surprised the watch media by reintroducing a long-forgotten name, the Captain Cook.? First introduced in 1962, the 35mm stainless steel diver had classic looks, decent capabilities and a specific trait that s highly desired by collectors: an inward sloping bezel.? We reviewed an original model a couple years back here on Fratello and you can see it above.Rado Captain Cook 2017Rado Captain Cook – A Well Played ReissueThe 2017 model brought things into this millennium – but just barely – by upsizing the case to a still modest 37mm and by adding some Rado flair with the same unique bezel, but made out of the brand s signature Hyperchrome.? For 2019, we get a slight update to the 2017 model with the Rado Captain Cook Automatic 2019.The Rado Captain Cook Automatic 2019Said to be inspired by a watch within the brand s own archives that developed a patinated dial, the new?Rado Captain Cook Automatic 2019 receives a brown sun-brushed dial.? Whereas the 2017 model contained a dark gray, it should be known that most Cooks one finds for sale actually contain a serious level of aging consistent with what you ll get with this new model.The?Rado Captain Cook Automatic 2019 keeps the same 37mm case, 100M water resistance, and box-shaped sapphire crystal.? That same lovely case back with the three seahorses also returns.1,962 Pieces and $2,100Unlike the prior model, though, this one will come with a leather carrying case, strap changing tool, mesh bracelet, and NATO-style strap.? Inside, the 25-jewel automatic ETA C07.611 sees duty and has a date function.? 1,962 pieces will be available just like the original and the retail price will be $2,100.Normally, the release of what basically amounts to a dial color change wouldn t garner a whole lot of attention (or our use of stock images), but when a watch is this good, it deserves mention.? The?Rado Captain Cook Automatic 2019 uses a wonderful case and has such a perfectly simple design, that I was a bit saddened that the 2017 release was here and gone.? Yes, I know that one can still find a few 2017 pieces on places like eBay (and they re?such?a good deal), but it s nice to see this overall composition return and with a dial that s actually in keeping with the original aesthetic.One of our Favorite Vintage-Inspired DiversI d go as far to say that along with the Doxa SUB 300 no T case that the brand released a few years back – and continued to come out with variations until last year – this Rado ranks as one of the top recent vintage style divers.? Plus, with its well-played blend of modern materials, it s an easy everyday wear.For more details, head to Rado s official site. Watch specifications