If you recall, a few months ago we brought you word of the Rado True Square Automatic (seen here). I liked what I saw from the photos there (and based on my prior experience with the brand). A little bit ago, I got to spend some time with this squared-off watch.
Rather than bury the lede, I’ll just throw it out there right up front – I did very much enjoy the Rado True Square Automatic. Sure, the thinness (and MOP) dial of the True Thinline is sublime, but this watch, with it’s automatic movement, just looks and feels like an awesome everyday watch that’s more than happy to get a little dressier.
One of the great things about the Rado True Square Automatic is the ceramic that they use for the case and bracelet. From a distance, it looks just like polished steel (other models have used tints in the ceramic for unique looks). But when you feel it – and particularly heft it – you know you’re dealing with something different.
And sure, knowing that you’ve got a high-tech ceramic on your wrist does put a small element of danger there. I mean, I wasn’t doing drop tests with our loaner, but I presume if it hits just right, this ceramic will crack at some point. So, keep that in mind if you tend to find yourself bashing your watch into door handles and walls.
From a design perspective, the squared shape of the Rado True Square Automatic is a refreshing change of pace from the circles we commonly see. Sure, tank watches are out there, but a squared case – to me – retains that robust look and feel that most watches will carry, while rectangular watches can end up feeling a bit too visually frail.
In terms of color pallete, for me, this Rado True Square Automatic with it’s blue dial and the high-polish silver of the case is just perfect. It’s a color combo I really like (though I wouldn’t mind some matte finish on the center links of the bracelet), and I find it to be a very versatile setup. The longer, narrow indices mimic the shape of the hands, and stood out quite well against the dial. The date disc stands out a bit more than I’d like, but then again I’m always agitating for color-matching here.
Another detail on the Rado True Square Automatic that I am always happy to see on a Rado is the spinning anchor up at the 12 o’clock position. This is a signature of the brand, with the anchor rotating around to give you a subtle visual cue that this watch has an automatic movement. I do miss the hint of red that we sometimes have in that from the brand, but it’s not a deal breaker.
Finally, it is worth noting that the Rado True Square Automatic does feature lume on the hands and indices. It’s not the brightest or longest-lasting, but that’s fine. This watch is not a diver. Frankly, it’s a dress watch that’s been hitting the weight bench and has bulked up a bit. Now, considering that the watch runs $2,150 you might want a bit more lume if you’re considering it as an everyday, wear all the time piece. For me, I’m ok with it being a bit more niche, and I will never tire of the feel of the Rado ceramics.
So, as I said up front – I really liked the Rado True Square Automatic. I focused way more on the look and feel of the watch, because that’s where the watch really grabbed me. Sure, there are plenty of technical specifications (both in our prior article and below). For me, though, the Rado True lineup is way more about the emotional, artistic side of things than the hard technical side. Sure, it wasn’t a perfect expression in my view, but nothing here was something that would stop me from buckling the Rado True Square Automatic onto my wrist