History of Rado

HISTORY OF RADO

As an innovative watchmaker with roots going back to 1917, Rado strives to capture the present and shape the future. To this end, we work tirelessly on the development of new materials, colours and shapes at our headquarters in Lengnau, Switzerland, and around the world. After all, there is a reason why we are referred to as the “Master of Materials”.

rado-mission

Our Mission

Rado is known as the Master of Materials. We have revolutionized traditional watchmaking, leading the industry by introducing high-tech ceramic, ultralight high-tech ceramic, colourful high-tech ceramic and Ceramos™ to our design-led collections. An award-winning designer with numerous prestigious international prizes to its name, Rado is considered the most forward-thinking design player in the watch industry today.

The mission to set the standard for the watch industry, to lead and pioneer remain unchanged. Materials, innovation, technology, history, lightness, smoothness, design, warmth, energy, agelessness, durability, vibrancy, style, fashion, colours, the past, present and future are all part of the compelling Rado story Feel It! represents.

How it all began

In 1917, brothers Fritz, Ernst and Werner Schlup made a decision that would change their lives and those of future generations: they became watchmakers. Their humble atelier was located in a converted part of their parents’ home in the village of Lengnau, Switzerland. Through their relentless energy and uncanny ability to spot new opportunities, Schlup & Co. got off to a promising start, signing agreements with a wide array of importers around the world.

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Design

Design is the cornerstone of Rado's many groundbreaking timepieces, and it's also in the brand's DNA.

Tennis

Rado has become synonymous with the world of tennis since it began sponsoring international tournaments over 20 years ago.