Rado DiaStar Original R12165155, 38mm, Black Dial, Grey Rubber Strap
Rado DiaStar Original, Black Dial
Rado DiaStar Original is a Swiss automatic with a black dial, 38 mm ceramic case, sapphire crystal and 100 m water resistance.
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About this item
- DiaStar Original X Tej Chauhan Special Edition
- Swiss automatic movement
- Ceramic case, 38 mm diameter
- Sapphire crystal
- Water resistant to 100 metres
- Rubber strap with foldover clasp
Top Highlights
- Brand
- Rado
- Model Name
- Diastar Original
- Model Number
- R12165155
- Department
- Unisex
- Item Type
- Automatic Watch
- Manufacturer
- RADO
- Country of Origin
- Switzerland
- First Available
- 9 April 2025
Features & Specs
- Display
- Analog
- Movement Type
- Swiss automatic
- Additional Features
- Unique Collaboration, Sapphire Crystal, High-Precision Movement
- Strap Type
- Two Piece Strap
- Case Material
- Ceramic
- Case Size
- 38.0 mm
- Case Thickness
- 11.7 mm
- Lug Width
- 20.0 mm
- Weight
- 101.1 g
- Water Resistance
- 100 m
- Strap
- Rubber
- Clasp
- Foldover Clasp
- Crystal
- Sapphire crystal
Style
- Style Name
- Modern
- Dial Shape
- Oval
- Dial Colour
- Black
- Band Color
- Gray
- Face Style
- Modern
- Collection
- DiaStar Original
Description
The Rado DiaStar Original in its Tej Chauhan Special Edition is a unisex Swiss automatic watch built around a distinctive oval dial. It suits anyone who wants a design-led piece that departs from the usual round dress watch, and it carries the open heart styling noted in the listing.
The ceramic case measures 38 mm across and 11.7 mm thick, with a sapphire crystal over a black dial. The Swiss automatic movement is paired with 100 m of water resistance, and the 20 mm lugs hold a grey rubber strap closed by a foldover clasp.
What sets this edition apart is the collaboration itself. Ceramic is far more scratch resistant than steel, and the rubber strap gives the watch a relaxed, modern character. At 101 g it has a reassuring weight on the wrist for daily wear, from the office to the weekend.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I swim with the Rado DiaStar Original?
The Rado DiaStar Original is rated to 100 m, so swimming in a pool or the sea is generally fine. Showers are also fine, though hot water and steam can age rubber seals over time. Avoid pressing the crown while submerged, and have the seals checked periodically at a service centre.
Is it suitable for daily wear at the office?
Yes in practice, because the 38 mm ceramic case and 11.7 mm thickness slide under most cuffs. The rubber strap keeps it casual, while the black dial and oval shape still look refined. Ceramic resists daily scratches well, so it generally stays looking new through a normal work week.
Will it fit my wrist?
A 38 mm case with 20 mm lugs generally suits small to medium wrists, and as a unisex piece it works for many wrist sizes. The foldover clasp on the rubber strap helps fine-tune fit. Most wearers between roughly 16.5 and 19 cm find it comfortable.
How is it different from a steel automatic dress watch?
Compared with steel, the ceramic case resists scratches far better and keeps its finish for years. It also has an oval profile and a rubber strap, so it reads more modern than a classic round dress watch. The trade-off is that ceramic can chip on a hard impact, which steel generally does not.
Does it need a battery, and how often should it be serviced?
As a Swiss automatic, it runs from the motion of your wrist and needs no battery. Wear it regularly or the movement may stop, then simply reset the time. Service is generally recommended every five years or so, with a seal check for the 100 m water resistance.
Can I change the rubber strap?
The 20 mm lug width means you can fit a compatible 20 mm strap, such as leather, for a more formal look. Check how the original strap attaches before buying, as some Rado designs use fitted ends. A watchmaker can fit a replacement quickly and safely.
Editor's take
Rado has built its reputation on ceramic since the original DiaStar of the 1960s, and this Tej Chauhan Special Edition continues that line as a unisex piece. The Swiss automatic movement and the oval profile make it a deliberate departure from conventional round dress watches.
The ceramic case is the main attraction. At 38 mm across and 11.7 mm thick, it resists scratches far better than steel, and the sapphire crystal above the black dial adds to that durability. 100 m of water resistance covers swimming and daily splashes comfortably.
The trade-off is the strap and clasp arrangement. A rubber strap with a foldover clasp is practical and casual, but it will not suit anyone who wants a traditional leather dress look without buying a second strap. Ceramic also resists scratches yet can chip under a hard knock, which steel does not.
This watch suits buyers who value design and material over convention, and who wear one watch most days. For a similar budget, a steel-cased Swiss automatic dress watch is the obvious alternative if you prefer a classic round profile.
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