HANDS-ON: The Rado Captain Cook now comes with three interchangeable straps and we hope this is the future

Nick Kenyon

Every now and then you’ll come across something that makes you think, “Why doesn’t everyone do this?” This was what came to mind when I was considering the Rado Captain Cook with interchangeable straps, which offers a pretty practical solution to the limited versatility of a watch that only comes with one bracelet or strap. In this expression of the Rado Captain Cook, you are getting everything you would expect to in a piece from the collection, and a little more, so let’s take a closer look. After all, a different strap is almost as good as a new watch.

The case

The 42mm stainless steel case is based on the first Captain Cook dive watches from the 1960s, which were released in response to the boom in enthusiasm for scuba diving, and the need to accurately time these underwater adventures. While the original vintage references were produced in smaller case sizes, the modern 42mm case maintains similar proportions and holds true to the original inspiration. The flattened surfaces of the lugs have been finished with a high polish that nicely reflects the light and adds to the feeling of integration with the three-link bracelet that is also polished on its outer links.

The inwardly sloping bezel is another detail that has been preserved from the original Captain Cook references, however this reference is produced in contemporary green ceramic rather than aluminium. Rado is well known for their expertise in producing ceramic components, and the bezel is no different. Prominently positioned at 3 o’clock, the crown is large enough to be used easily, and screws into the case as a part of the package that guarantees 300m of water resistance.

The dial

The dial of this Rado Captain Cook with interchangeable straps is an attractive tone of mossy green, darkening around the edges of the dial, which elevates the contrast against the bright white lume of the hour markers and hands. The dial text is restrained, with the Rado logo and the Captain Cook text, allowing attention to be drawn to the boldly arrow-shaped hour hand, and the inwardly sloping brushed steel minute track around the circumference of the dial.

Another detail that is true to the original Captain Cook watches from the ’60s is the red-on-white date window at 3 o’clock, offering an additional point of interest on an otherwise cleanly executed dial.

The movement

Inside the Rado Captain Cook with interchangeable straps is the self-winding caliber C07.611. It is hidden behind the recognisable Rado caseback that features a trio of embossed stars and seahorses, and offers an appropriately modern 80 hours of power reserve.

The bracelet and straps

This is the part where the heart really gets racing, once you lay eyes on the leather pouch that the watch arrives in and contains the two additional straps. The stainless steel bracelet is significantly different from the original Captain Cook references as it comes in a three-link format instead of a beads-of-rice bracelet number. It integrates well with the case, and is secured with a folding clasp.

In addition, you also get a deep olive green leather strap with four contrast stitches at the spring bar end, and a more forest green NATO-style textile strap. It takes only a quick and painless press of the fingernails to swap between the straps and bracelet, thanks to the Rado EasyClip System. No tools required.

The verdict

On its own, the Rado Captain Cook is a well-made, thoughtfully designed dive watch with legitimate historical inspiration behind it. It’s well-sized, includes some high-spec features like the ceramic bezel, and is powered by a movement that won’t need kid gloves to operate. All factors that make it a captivating proposition for anyone who likes vintage-inspired tool watches. By adding the additional straps, Rado EasyClip System and travel pouch, the entire offering becomes more enticing as a versatile option that can be dressed anyway you like. In a way, you’re getting thee for the price of one.

Rado Captain Cook with interchangeable straps price and availability:

The Rado Captain Cook with interchangeable straps is AUD$3675 and is available from Rado authorised dealers. For more details, visit Rado right here.

Made in partnership with Rado. However, the opinions expressed in this article are our own in accordance with our Editorial Policy.