by Bob Allaby
Vintage-inspired
There are some watches that seem permanently attached to a particular era. The Rado DiaStar is one of them. Even people who don’t follow watches closely can usually recognize a DiaStar. The unusual oval case shape, broad bezel, and futuristic look made it stand out when it first appeared in 1962. More than six decades later, it remains one of the most distinctive designs in Swiss watchmaking.
That’s why I was a little surprised when I first saw the new DiaStar Original Skeleton Limited Edition collection. Rado has taken one of its most recognizable vintage-inspired models and given it a summer-ready makeover.
Limited edition
The new collection consists of three colourways: blue, red and green with a gold PVD coating. Each version is limited to 555 pieces and each comes paired with a matching rubber strap. Pricing starts at $3,400 CAD ($3700 for the gold).
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Key Features of the DiaStar Original Skeleton Limited Edition
Colour
What struck me most about these watches is the way Rado has used colour to completely change the personality of the DiaStar. The standard DiaStar Original Skeleton already has a fairly technical appearance. Exposed bridges, visible gears, and the open-worked dial give it a contemporary feel. These new limited editions add bright chapter rings and matching straps that transform the watch into something much more playful.
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The blue model is likely the most versatile of the three. It pairs a blue chapter ring and strap with yellow Super-LumiNova accents, creating a combination that feels sporty while remaining easy to wear daily.
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The green version is probably the most dramatic. Rado has combined green elements with gold-coloured PVD accents, creating a look that feels straight out of the 1970s. Given the DiaStar’s history, that seems entirely appropriate.
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Although I wore the blue for most of my time with the watches the red was a favourite too. There is something about the contrast between the bright red ring, the exposed movement, and the green luminous details that feels unapologetically fun. Most skeleton watches tend to lean toward monochrome palettes. This one embraces colour in a way that makes it stand apart.
Comfort on wrist
One note to mention that was also a nice surprise. After wearing a DiaStar really for the first amount of quality time was the level of comfort. Between the lightweight materials, the strap and the case shape it truly disappears on wrist.
Built for summer
The timing of the release also makes sense. Summer watch releases often follow a predictable formula. Brands add brighter dials, colourful straps, or tropical themes to existing models. Sometimes it works. Sometimes it feels forced. Here, the colours feel integrated into the overall design rather than added as an afterthought.
The exposed movement actually benefits from the added colour. Skeleton watches can occasionally look busy or difficult to read. The coloured chapter rings help create visual structure, making the hands and indices easier to pick out against the mechanical backdrop. Of course, beneath the colours, this is still very much a DiaStar.
Case and materials
The 38 mm case retains the familiar shape that collectors have known for decades. Rado’s scratch resistant Ceramos bezel remains a defining feature, paired with the faceted sapphire crystal that gives the watch much of its character. Water resistance is rated to 100 metres, making it more practical than its colourful appearance might initially suggest.
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Movement
Powering the watch is Rado’s calibre R808 automatic movement. The movement features a Nivachron hairspring, 25 jewels, and an impressive 80-hour power reserve.
Specs
| Case | Ceramos 38.5mm Diameter 45mm Lug to Lug 11.9mm Thick 20mm Lug Width Screw Down Case Back 100m Water Resistance |
| Dial & Crystal | Faceted Sapphire Crystal Skeletonized Dial Baton Handset Super-LumiNova |
| Movement | R808 Antimagnetic Nivachron™ Hairspring Regulated in 5 Positions 80-Hour Power Reserve |
| Strap | Rubber with Pin Buckle |
Rado DiaStar Original Skeleton Limited Edition
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Final Thoughts
What I find particularly interesting is how well the DiaStar continues to resonate with collectors. For many brands, maintaining a design for more than sixty years would eventually become a limitation. The DiaStar seems immune to that problem. Every few years Rado finds another way to reinterpret the design without losing what makes it recognizable.
The DiaStar has always occupied its own corner of the watch world.. It has always looked a little different from everything around it. These new Skeleton Limited Editions continue that tradition. Will every collector be drawn to the bright colours? Probably not. Some enthusiasts will prefer the more restrained versions already in the catalogue. Others may find the combination of skeletonization and vibrant colour a little too bold.
That’s perfectly fine. The DiaStar has always stood apart from the crowd. These summer editions ensure it still does.
Please visit the brand website for more details.
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About the Author
Bob Allaby shares his passion for photography, video, travel and watch collecting on the popular YouTube channel TimeToGo Travel and Timepieces. You can also follow him on Instagram.
Off The Cuff articles are full-length, hands-on reviews of the watch in question and represent the opinion of the author only. All photos are original, unless specified otherwise. If you would like to have your watch reviewed on this site, contact us here.
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