Finding a Rado Captain Cook in such excellent condition is quite rare. This particular timepiece is a gem, having been well cared for by its previous owner, a dedicated collector of Swiss watches. It appears practically unworn, with no scratches or dings to speak of. Quite remarakable for a watch made on the 23rd September of 1972.

What's more, this Captain Cook comes complete with its original box, an extra bracelet lug, and two original Rado adverts from its era, all collected by the previous owner. These additional items provide a glimpse into the watch's history and add to its collector's value.

The stainless steel body of this timepiece exudes a captivating character, its surface meticulously crafted to a high-polished sheen that catches the light from every angle. Its distinctive barrel-shaped design sets it apart, evoking a sense of timeless elegance and sophistication which is a great rarity for a capable diver watch.

Measured across the width, the watch spans a modest 37mm, while its lug-to-lug length extends gracefully to 41mm. Despite these seemingly understated dimensions on paper, the watch possesses a commanding presence on the wrist, defying expectations with its substantial footprint.

What truly sets this timepiece apart is its ingenious design. The absence of a traditional bezel, coupled with a crystal that measures 35mm, creates an illusion of expansiveness, further accentuating the watch's substantial presence. Moreover, the additional steel real estate between the lugs adds to its overall grandeur, ensuring that it commands attention with every glance.
Then there’s the dome—a substantial 5mm box crystal that adds to the case's robust appearance. The watch features two crowns, both adorned with the trademark Rado anchor insignia, reminiscent of an oscillating weight. The crown at three o’clock operates the inside track, while the smaller push-pull crown is cleverly recessed between the case housing and bezel adjustment for protection. It’s a subtle integration that underscores Rado’s commitment to forward-thinking design.
The movement is safeguarded by a screw-down case back, embellished with inward-facing seahorses and the inscription “Water sealed.” However, as with any vintage watch, gaskets and overall capabilities may degrade over time, potentially compromising its water resistance. The Mark II was originally advertised as waterproof to a depth of 1625 feet (495 meters).
This Captain Cook is equipped with an automatic winding movement (caliber AS 1858/25 jewels), operating at 21,600 vibrations per hour. This timepiece is also equipped with an original extendable clap bracelet with an elegant seahorse engraving on the clasp. Rado has launched a reissue of this version lately but why buy a reissue when you can have the original for less?