Rado DiaStar Jubilé Gold-Tone Quartz Wristwatch
Jewelry (Watch) · Rado (Switzerland). Founded in 1917 as Schlup & Co., Rado is world-renowned for pioneering the use of scratch-resistant materials in horology.
Pattern: DiaStar (The Original collection), featuring the Jubilé designation typically indicating the use of diamond hour markers.
Type
Jewelry (Watch)
Maker
Rado (Switzerland). Founded in 1917 as Schlup & Co., Rado is world-renowned for pioneering the use of scratch-resistant materials in horology.
Material
Gold-plated stainless steel or PVD coating over hardmetal/tungsten carbide. This item contains no solid silver; it is a metallic alloy composition designed for durability and scratch resistance. The dial features four small diamond-accented indices.
Dimensions
Approximate case diameter of 35mm. Typical weight for this model is approximately 80 to 110 grams depending on link count and movement type.
Description
A striking example of Swiss modernist design, this Rado DiaStar Jubilé blends industrial durability with luxury aesthetics. Known as 'The Original' scratch-proof watch, its unique oval case shape and faceted crystal offer a look that is instantly recognizable to collectors of mid-century and modern timepieces.
Key Features
Scratch-resistant tungsten carbide bezel, four diamond markers on the dial, rotating anchor logo, and the faceted sapphire crystal that creates unique light refractions.
Material & Composition
Gold-plated stainless steel or PVD coating over hardmetal/tungsten carbide. This item contains no solid silver; it is a metallic alloy composition designed for durability and scratch resistance. The dial features four small diamond-accented indices.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish on the oval bezel. The dial is a silver-toned sunray or mother-of-pearl finish with the iconic Rado rotating anchor logo at 12 o'clock. Modernist minimalist style.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The dial is stamped with 'RADO', 'DIASTAR', 'jubilé', 'SWISS MADE'. The case back (not visible) would typically feature the Rado sea-horse logo, serial number, and reference numbers.
Construction Details
Machine-manufactured. Features a signature scratch-proof tungsten-carbide 'hardmetal' bezel and a faceted sapphire crystal cover.
Functional Features
Analog time display, date window at 6 o'clock position, quartz movement (battery-powered), and a water-resistant case construction.
Handle & Grip Details
Integrated gold-tone three-row link bracelet with a fold-over deployment clasp, typically made of titanium or stainless steel.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision machine-led Swiss engineering. The focus is on the metallurgy of the bezel and the seamless integration of the faceted crystal.
Authentication Indicators
The rotating anchor logo and the specific alignment of the date window. Note: This is an heavily faked model; genuine Rado pieces have extremely high-quality finishing and the anchor on the dial should rotate freely with the movement of the wrist.
Origin & Manufacturing
Lengnau, Switzerland. Following Swiss horological traditions of precision and innovative material science.
Era & Period
Modern / Contemporary (Style originated in the 1960s, but this specific iteration appears to be from the late 20th to early 21st century).
Age Estimate
Circa 1990 - 2010. Based on the 'Jubilé' branding and the font style of the date wheel.
Cultural Significance
The DiaStar has a massive cult following in South Asia and the Middle East, where it is viewed as a significant status symbol and a popular gift for weddings and milestones.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Visible wear and scratches on the gold-tone plating of the bracelet links. The bezel appears to have held its polish well, which is characteristic of DiaStar hardmetal. Significant dust/debris around the crystal edge.
Value Estimate
$200 - $550 USD depending on the authenticity of the diamonds and movement condition. Resale is influenced by the amount of plating wear on the bracelet.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft cloth. Do not use silver polish, as this is not silver and abrasive cleaners will strip the gold PVD coating. Quartz movements require battery replacement every 2-3 years.
Similar Pieces
Rolex Day-Date (for the gold aesthetic), Movado Museum Watch (for minimalism), or the Rado Ceramica (for alternative scratch-resistant materials).
Interesting Facts
The DiaStar was the world's first scratch-proof watch when it debuted in 1962, utilizing materials previously only used in industrial applications.