Rado Centrix Diamonds High-Tech Ceramic and Gold-PVD Wristwatch
Jewelry (Watch/Horology) · Rado (part of the Swatch Group), Lengnau, Switzerland. Established in 1917, Rado is globally renowned for its pioneering use of scratch-resistant materials.
Pattern: Centrix Collection; renowned for its tapered, ergonomic bracelet and minimalist dial design. This specific model features the Jubilee diamond markers.
Type
Jewelry (Watch/Horology)
Maker
Rado (part of the Swatch Group), Lengnau, Switzerland. Established in 1917, Rado is globally renowned for its pioneering use of scratch-resistant materials.
Material
High-Tech Ceramic (black), Stainless Steel with Gold PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) coating, Sapphire Crystal, and four small faceted diamonds. Note: This item contains no solid silver.
Dimensions
Standard men's/unisex size; approximately 38mm case diameter. Thickness roughly 10mm. Weight approx. 110-130 grams depending on link count.
Description
A striking example of Swiss horology, this Rado Centrix combines the warmth of gold tones with the edge of high-tech black ceramic. The edge-to-edge sapphire crystal gives the face a seamless, expansive look, while the four diamond markers provide a subtle luxury. It is a piece that prioritizes sleek lines and material innovation over traditional ornate decoration.
Key Features
Scratch-resistant high-tech ceramic links, edge-to-edge sapphire crystal, diamond 'Jubilee' dial markings, and the iconic tapered bracelet profile.
Material & Composition
High-Tech Ceramic (black), Stainless Steel with Gold PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) coating, Sapphire Crystal, and four small faceted diamonds. Note: This item contains no solid silver.
Finish & Decoration
High-gloss polished ceramic, mirror-finish gold PVD plating. Minimalist aesthetic with a 'Jubilee' dial featuring four diamond indices at 3, 6, 9, and 12 o'clock. Modernist/Contemporary style.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The 'RADO' brand mark is visible on the dial. The case back (not visible) typically includes the reference number, 'High-Tech Ceramic', 'Sapphire Crystal', 'Swiss Made', and water resistance rating.
Construction Details
Machine-manufactured precision assembly. Features a monocoque high-tech ceramic case or stainless steel core with ceramic inserts. Multi-link bracelet with friction pins.
Functional Features
Analog time display, date aperture at 3 o'clock, water-resistant crown at 3 o'clock, and a dual-fold titanium deployment clasp with push-button release.
Handle & Grip Details
The bracelet (grip) is composed of gold-plated stainless steel outer links and black high-tech ceramic inner links, designed for hypoallergenic comfort and temperature regulation.
Craftsmanship Details
High-precision industrial craftsmanship. The alignment of the ceramic inserts within the gold-tone links shows tight tolerances characteristic of genuine Swiss-manufactured Rado pieces.
Authentication Indicators
The dial printing of 'RADO' and the date window alignment are consistent with Rado standards. However, note that Centrix is a frequently replicated model; the thickness of the gold PVD and the weight of the ceramic are primary tell-tales for authenticity.
Origin & Manufacturing
Lengnau, Switzerland. Manufactured following Swiss Made standards which mandate a high percentage of production value and final-check within Switzerland.
Era & Period
Contemporary/Modern (21st Century). Rado's design language focuses on the 'Master of Materials' philosophy, emphasizing durability and futuristic minimalism.
Age Estimate
Circa 2010–2020. The Centrix line has been a staple of the Rado catalog throughout this period.
Cultural Significance
Represents the shift in luxury jewelry and watches from precious metals like silver and gold toward 'functional' luxury—materials that are designed to look brand new for decades despite daily wear.
Condition Notes
The item appears in Good to Very Good condition. There is visible dirt/debris between the links and around the bezel/crystal edges requiring cleaning. No obvious cracks in the ceramic or deep scratches on the crystal visible.
Value Estimate
$800 - $1,600 USD (Secondary market value typically $350 - $700 depending on movement type - Quartz vs. Automatic).
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft damp cloth or an ultrasonic cleaner for the bracelet (non-movements). Sapphire crystal can only be scratched by diamonds or other sapphire. Avoid dropping on hard surfaces like tile, as ceramic is brittle and can shatter regardless of surface hardness.
Similar Pieces
Movado Museum Watch (similar minimalism), Longines La Grande Classique (thin profile), or Tissot Le Locle (Swiss luxury entry-point), but none share Rado's specific ceramic technology.
Interesting Facts
Rado was the first brand to use ceramic in watchmaking in the 1980s. The Centrix is designed to be the brand's most 'fluid' watch, mimicking the natural curve of the human wrist.