Rado DiaStar Original R12161253, 38mm, Gold Dial
Rado DiaStar Original, Gold Dial
Gold-dial automatic from the Rado DiaStar line, with a 38 mm stainless steel case, sapphire crystal and 100 m water resistance.
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About this item
- Case material: stainless steel with PVD Ceramos finish
- Automatic movement
- 38.0 mm case diameter
- 11.9 mm case thickness
- Stainless steel bracelet with PVD finish
- Sapphire crystal, water resistant to 100 m
Top Highlights
- Brand
- Rado
- Model Name
- DiaStar Original
- Model Number
- R12161253
- Department
- Unisex
- Item Type
- Automatic Watch
- Manufacturer
- Rado
- Country of Origin
- Switzerland
- First Available
- August 26, 2024
Features & Specs
- Display
- Analog
- Movement Type
- Automatic
- Additional Features
- Lightweight, Scratch-Resistant
- Strap Type
- Bracelet
- Case Material
- Stainless steel
- Case Size
- 38.0 mm
- Case Thickness
- 11.9 mm
- Weight
- 70 g
- Water Resistance
- 100 m
- Sport Type
- Walking
- Strap
- Stainless steel
- Clasp
- Foldover Clasp
- Crystal
- Sapphire crystal
Style
- Style Name
- Modern
- Dial Shape
- Oval
- Dial Color
- Gold
- Band Color
- Gold
- Face Style
- Modern
- Collection
- DiaStar
Description
The Rado DiaStar Original is a unisex automatic watch built around the brand's best-known design idea: a smooth, scratch-resistant case with a gold-toned finish. It suits anyone who wants a refined everyday piece with a modern look.
The case is stainless steel with a PVD Ceramos finish and measures 38.0 mm across and 11.9 mm thick. A sapphire crystal covers the oval gold dial, and the automatic movement means no battery is needed. Water resistance is rated to 100 m.
The matching stainless steel bracelet with PVD finish closes with a foldover clasp. At around 70 g, the watch stays light on the wrist, which makes it easy to wear from morning through evening without fatigue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wear the Rado DiaStar Original in the shower or pool?
Yes for both. The DiaStar Original is rated to 100 m, which generally covers showers and swimming at the pool without trouble. Avoid hot water and steam where possible, as heat can wear down gaskets over time, and keep the crown pushed in whenever it gets wet.
Will a 38 mm watch fit my wrist?
A 38 mm case with an 11.9 mm profile usually sits well on average wrists, and it works for both men and women since the watch is unisex. Because it is a bracelet watch with a foldover clasp, a jeweler can usually remove links to get the fit right.
Do I need to change a battery in this watch?
No. The Rado DiaStar Original is automatic, so it is powered by wrist motion rather than a battery. If you leave it off for a few days it may stop, in which case a gentle wind of the crown and a few hours of wear will usually get it going again.
How does this compare with a plain steel dress watch?
Compared with a steel dress watch, this DiaStar leans on its gold-toned PVD Ceramos finish and rounded, scratch-resistant case. If you prefer a quieter, classic look, a simple steel automatic is the alternative. If you want something with more presence, this suits better.
Is it suitable for daily sport such as walking?
It is listed for walking and light sport. The sapphire crystal resists scratches, the 70 g weight is easy to carry all day, and 100 m water resistance copes with sweat and rain. For heavy impact sports a dedicated sports watch would be a better fit.
How often does an automatic watch like this need service?
Most automatic watches benefit from service every five years or so, though it depends on use. A service center will check the oil, gaskets and timekeeping. Having the 100 m water resistance retested after any service is sensible if you swim regularly.
Editor's take
The Rado DiaStar Original is the house's signature design, a rounded, scratch-resistant case that has defined the DiaStar line for decades. This version is aimed at anyone, men or women, who wants a distinctive automatic movement watch with a gold-toned look rather than a plain steel dress piece.
The case is stainless steel with a PVD Ceramos finish, 38.0 mm across and 11.9 mm thick, and the dial sits under a sapphire crystal. Because the movement is automatic, there is no battery to swap, and the 100 m rating covers showers and swimming at the pool without trouble.
The main trade-off is that the page does not state a caliber or power reserve, so anyone who buys on movement specification will want to ask a retailer before committing. The 11.9 mm thickness is also on the chunky side for a 38 mm watch, which may catch under a fitted cuff.
It suits buyers who want a gold-toned, low-maintenance daily watch with a foldover clasp bracelet and a light 70 g feel. If you prefer a conventional steel dress look, a plain automatic from a Swiss mainstream brand is the obvious alternative.
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