Home › Watches › Rado DiaStar Original R12161313

The Rado DiaStar Original R12161313: oval case, yellow-gold PVD Ceramos bezel, faceted sapphire and an iridescent green mosaic dial set with 11 crystals.

Quick answer: The Rado DiaStar Original R12161313 is a Swiss automatic watch that reinterprets Rado's 1962 DiaStar, the watch Rado presented as the world's first scratch-resistant watch. It has a 38 mm oval stainless steel case, a polished Ceramos bezel with yellow-gold PVD, a vertically faceted sapphire crystal and an iridescent green multi-level mosaic dial set with 11 crystal stones in gold-colored mounts. Inside is Rado's Caliber R764 automatic with day and date at 6 o'clock, 25 jewels, an 80-hour power reserve and a Nivachron hairspring. It is 12.1 mm thick, weighs 140 g, is water resistant to 100 m and comes on a gold-tone bracelet. It is available at Lexor Miami for $2,200 with Rado's 5-year warranty, free U.S. shipping and free returns.

• Price: $2,200 · 5-year Rado warranty
• Case: 38 mm oval stainless steel · 12.1 mm thick · 100 m
• Dial: Iridescent green mosaic with 11 crystal indices
• Movement: Rado R764 automatic · day-date · 80-hour reserve · Nivachron
• Availability: Limited stock at Lexor Miami

Shop the DiaStar Original – $2,200

100% Authentic · 5-Year Rado Warranty · Free U.S. Shipping · Free Returns

Introduction: The Watch That Refused to Scratch

In 1962, most watches showed their age within months. Cases scuffed, crystals scratched and polished surfaces lost their shine. That year, Rado introduced a watch built to resist all of it: the DiaStar. Its hardmetal case and faceted sapphire crystal made it what Rado described as the world's first scratch-resistant watch, and its unusual oval silhouette made it impossible to mistake for anything else.

Six decades later, the DiaStar Original remains one of Rado's most iconic collections, and the R12161313 may be its most glamorous expression. A polished Ceramos bezel in yellow-gold PVD frames an iridescent green dial with a multi-level mosaic pattern and 11 crystal stones as hour markers. The faceted sapphire crystal catches light like a cut gem, and the day and date sit neatly at 6 o'clock. Inside, a modern Swiss automatic delivers 80 hours of power.

It is a watch that feels vintage and modern at once: unmistakably 1960s in shape, unmistakably 2020s in performance. And because it is a DiaStar, it is designed to keep looking beautiful for years, long after ordinary watches have lost their shine.

In this guide we cover everything a U.S. buyer should know: the DiaStar story, Ceramos, the R764 movement, verified specifications, how the green mosaic dial is made, who this watch suits, comparisons and care. If you are ready, order the Rado DiaStar Original R12161313 here.

The Rado Story: The Master of Materials

Swiss roots since 1917

Rado's history begins with a movement workshop founded in 1917 in Lengnau, Switzerland. The Rado name was adopted in the 1950s, and the brand soon became known for bold designs and a fascination with new materials.

1962: The DiaStar

The DiaStar was Rado's breakthrough. Its case was made from hardmetal, a material based on tungsten carbide with a metallic binder, far harder than steel. Combined with a faceted sapphire crystal, it allowed Rado to present the DiaStar as the first scratch-resistant watch in the world.

The birth of the "Master of Materials"

The DiaStar's success set Rado on a path that defines it to this day. The brand pioneered high-tech ceramic in watchmaking in the 1980s and developed Ceramos, a composite combining the hardness of ceramic with the shine of metal. Rado's motto, "Master of Materials," began with the DiaStar.

A design that never left

The DiaStar has been reinterpreted many times, including anniversary editions, designer collaborations and skeletonized limited editions. Each version keeps its essential DNA: the oval case, the convex bezel and the faceted crystal.

The DiaStar Through the Decades

The 1960s: a radical idea

When the DiaStar appeared in 1962, watch design was dominated by thin round cases in gold or steel. The DiaStar broke every rule. Its broad oval case, made of hardmetal, had a sculptural, almost futuristic presence, and its faceted crystal sparkled in a way no flat glass could. It quickly became a symbol of modernity.

The 1970s and 1980s: a family grows

The DiaStar's success inspired a whole family of designs. Rado continued to explore hard, scratch-resistant materials, a path that led to its pioneering use of high-tech ceramic in the 1980s.

The 2010s and 2020s: the Original returns

In recent years, Rado brought the DiaStar back as the DiaStar Original, faithful to the 1962 silhouette but equipped with modern automatic movements. Anniversary editions celebrated its 60th birthday in 2022, designer collaborations reinterpreted its shape, and the 2026 Skeleton Limited Editions opened up its dial. The R12161313 is part of this living legacy.

Why the design endures

Great designs survive because they are both distinctive and practical. The DiaStar's oval case is comfortable on the wrist, its faceted crystal is beautiful and durable, and its scratch-resistant materials make it easy to live with. Few watches from the 1960s still feel this relevant.

Key Features of the Rado DiaStar Original R12161313

• Authentic Swiss-made Rado with a 5-year warranty.
• Iconic oval DiaStar case in stainless steel, 38 mm wide and 12.1 mm thick.
• Polished Ceramos bezel with yellow-gold PVD coating.
• Vertically faceted sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating on the inside.
• Iridescent green multi-level mosaic dial.
• 11 crystal stones as hour markers in yellow-gold-colored mounts.
• Super-LumiNova on the hands.
• Day and date display at 6 o'clock.
• Rado Caliber R764 automatic with 25 jewels.
• 80-hour power reserve.
• Nivachron anti-magnetic hairspring; adjusted in five positions.
• 100 m (10 bar) water resistance.
• Gold-tone link bracelet with folding clasp engraved "RADO."
• Weight of 140 g.

Benefits: Why the DiaStar Original Works So Well

1. Built to stay beautiful

The Ceramos bezel and sapphire crystal, the two parts of a watch most exposed to knocks, are far more scratch-resistant than steel or mineral glass. Your DiaStar keeps its polish and sparkle longer than most watches.

2. A dial that changes with the light

The iridescent green mosaic dial has multiple levels, so light plays across it differently with every movement of your wrist. Indoors it looks deep and rich; in sunlight it shimmers.

3. Everyday practicality

The day and date at 6 o'clock make the DiaStar a genuinely useful daily watch, perfect for busy professionals and frequent travelers.

4. Weekend-proof power

The R764's 80-hour reserve means the watch keeps running through a weekend off the wrist, so you rarely need to reset the day and date.

5. Jewelry-like elegance

Gold, green and crystal is a luxurious combination. The DiaStar Original R12161313 works like a piece of jewelry while remaining a robust Swiss automatic.

6. Unisex appeal

At 38 mm with an oval case, the DiaStar suits both men and women who like a distinctive, design-led watch.

Check Availability – Limited Stock

Technical Specifications

Day and date at 6 o'clock keep the green mosaic dial balanced and easy to read.

Brand	Rado
Collection	DiaStar Original Automatic
Reference	R12161313
Movement	Rado Caliber R764, Swiss automatic
Jewels	25
Power reserve	80 hours
Hairspring	Nivachron (anti-magnetic)
Accuracy	Adjusted in 5 positions
Functions	Hours, minutes, seconds, day and date at 6 o'clock
Case	Stainless steel, oval
Case width	38 mm
Thickness	12.1 mm
Weight	140 g
Bezel	Ceramos, polished, yellow-gold PVD
Crystal	Vertically faceted sapphire, anti-reflective coating inside
Dial	Iridescent green, multi-level mosaic pattern
Indices	11 crystal stones in yellow-gold-colored mounts
Hands	With Super-LumiNova
Water resistance	100 m (10 bar)
Bracelet	Gold-tone link bracelet
Clasp	Folding (butterfly) clasp engraved "RADO"
Gender	Unisex
Origin	Swiss Made
Warranty	5 years
Price at Lexor Miami	$2,200

How does a 38 mm oval watch wear?

The DiaStar is 38 mm across, but its oval shape follows the curve of the wrist, giving it more presence than a round 38 mm watch. It wears comfortably on wrists from roughly 6 to 7.75 inches and suits both men and women. At 12.1 mm thick, it slides under a cuff, and its 140 g weight on the bracelet gives it a satisfying, quality feel.

Ceramos and the Faceted Sapphire Crystal

What is Ceramos?

Ceramos is a Rado composite that combines the hardness of ceramic with the metallic luster of metal. It continues the hardmetal story that began with the 1962 DiaStar, giving the bezel exceptional scratch resistance with a polished, jewelry-like shine.

A golden bezel

On the R12161313, the polished Ceramos bezel is coated in yellow-gold PVD. PVD (physical vapor deposition) bonds a thin, durable layer of color to the surface, giving the bezel its warm gold tone.

The faceted crystal

The DiaStar's vertically faceted sapphire crystal is one of its defining features. The facets catch and break up light like a cut gem, and an anti-reflective coating on the inside keeps the dial legible. Sapphire is among the hardest transparent materials used in watchmaking, so it resists everyday scratches.

Why it matters to you

The bezel and crystal take most of the knocks a watch receives. By making them from Ceramos and sapphire, Rado keeps the DiaStar's most recognizable features looking new, exactly as the 1962 original promised.

The Green Mosaic Dial

The multi-level mosaic pattern and 11 crystal indices make the green dial shimmer in every light.

A multi-level mosaic

Instead of a flat surface, the R12161313's dial is built in multiple levels with a mosaic pattern. Each tile reflects light at a slightly different angle, creating depth and movement.

Iridescent green

The green is iridescent, shifting between emerald, forest and bright green depending on the light. It is a sophisticated alternative to classic black, blue or silver dials.

Eleven crystal stones

Eleven crystal stones replace traditional hour markers, each set in a yellow-gold-colored mount. The twelfth position is reserved for the Rado logo, and the stones add discreet sparkle without overwhelming the design.

Day and date at 6 o'clock

Placing the day and date at 6 o'clock keeps the upper half of the dial clean and symmetrical, a signature DiaStar layout.

Luminous hands

The hands are treated with Super-LumiNova so you can read the time in low light, whether at a candlelit dinner or on a late flight.

The Caliber R764: An 80-Hour Day-Date Automatic

The engraved case back: Swiss Made, 10 bar (100 m) water resistance.

Swiss automatic with day and date

The R764 is Rado's automatic day-date caliber. It winds itself as you move and displays both the day and date at 6 o'clock.

80 hours of power

Built on the Swatch Group's modern long-reserve architecture, the R764 runs for up to 80 hours when fully wound, roughly double the reserve of traditional automatics.

Nivachron hairspring

The Nivachron balance spring resists magnetic fields and temperature variations far better than traditional springs, helping keep the watch accurate around phones and laptops.

Adjusted in five positions

Rado adjusts the R764 in five positions for consistent timekeeping regardless of how the watch rests.

25 jewels

Twenty-five synthetic jewels reduce friction at key points in the movement, supporting accuracy and longevity.

How to Set the Day and Date

Step 1: Make sure the watch is running

If the watch has stopped, give the crown a few gentle turns or wear it for a few minutes to start the automatic movement.

Step 2: Set the date and day

Pull the crown to the quick-set position and turn it to adjust the date, and in the opposite direction to adjust the day (on many day-date automatics; your Rado instructions confirm the exact direction).

Step 3: Set the time

Pull the crown to the time-setting position. The seconds hand stops, so you can synchronize precisely. Move the hands past midnight to make sure the day and date change at 12 AM, not 12 PM, then set the correct time.

Step 4: Avoid the "danger zone"

Never adjust the day or date between about 9 PM and 3 AM, when the calendar mechanism is engaged. Changing it then can damage the movement.

Why Green Dials Are Everywhere

Over the past few years, green has become one of the most popular dial colors in watchmaking, appearing on everything from sports watches to dress watches. Green is associated with nature, growth and calm, and it pairs beautifully with both steel and gold. It is also more distinctive than black or blue while remaining versatile enough to wear every day.

The DiaStar Original R12161313 takes the trend further with an iridescent green that shifts through different shades, a multi-level mosaic texture that adds depth and gold accents that make the green look richer. If you want a green-dial watch that stands apart from the crowd, this is it.

The Gold-Tone Bracelet and Clasp

The gold-tone link bracelet closes with a folding clasp engraved "RADO."

Coordinated gold tone

The gold-tone link bracelet matches the yellow-gold PVD bezel and the dial's gold mounts, creating a cohesive, luxurious look from case to clasp.

Folding clasp

The folding (butterfly) clasp opens symmetrically and closes securely, with the Rado name engraved on top.

Sizing

Links can be removed to fit your wrist. The Lexor Miami team can size the bracelet in the showroom.

What Owners and Reviewers Appreciate

Reviewers of the modern DiaStar Original consistently highlight the same strengths. Gnomon Watches, in its review of the collection, pointed to the scratch-resistant case materials, the 80-hour automatic movement, 100 m water resistance and a design versatile enough for both formal and casual settings. They also described the bracelet as fluid and comfortable, and noted that the collection is offered in sizes suited to both men and women.

Owners tend to add one more point: the DiaStar gets noticed. Its oval shape and faceted crystal are recognizable across a room, and the R12161313's green mosaic dial and gold bezel make it even more of a conversation piece. If you like a watch that people ask about, the DiaStar delivers every time.

What to Look for in a Luxury Dress-Sport Watch

The DiaStar Original sits in a sweet spot between dress watch and everyday sports watch. If you are shopping in this category, here are five things worth checking.

1. Scratch resistance

A watch you wear every day should still look good after a year. Sapphire crystals and hard bezel materials like Ceramos make a visible difference.

2. A reliable automatic movement

Look for a long power reserve and anti-magnetic components. The R764 offers both: 80 hours and Nivachron.

3. Practical complications

Day and date are among the most useful complications for everyday life, and the DiaStar includes both.

4. Real water resistance

100 m means you don't have to worry about rain, handwashing or a swim.

5. A design with history

Watches with a real story, like the 1962 DiaStar, tend to stay meaningful long after trends move on.

Who Should Buy the Rado DiaStar Original R12161313?

Lovers of vintage design

If you appreciate 1960s style, the DiaStar's oval case and faceted crystal are pure mid-century charm.

Those who want a watch that stays pristine

The scratch-resistant Ceramos bezel and sapphire crystal keep the DiaStar looking new with daily wear.

Fans of green and gold

Green dials are one of the strongest trends in watchmaking, and green with gold is a timeless luxury pairing.

Men and women alike

The 38 mm oval case and jewelry-like details make the DiaStar a true unisex watch.

Busy professionals

The day-date display and 80-hour reserve make it a practical daily companion.

Gift buyers

For an anniversary, birthday, graduation or retirement, a Rado DiaStar is an elegant, lasting gift with history.

Who might prefer another model

If you want a visible movement and limited-edition rarity, look at the DiaStar Original Skeleton Limited Edition R12166309. If you want a sporty, all-ceramic watch, consider the Rado Captain Cook Discover.

See the DiaStar Original at Lexor Miami

Why Buy the DiaStar Original at Lexor Miami?

Authentic, brand new, 5-year Rado warranty

Every watch from Lexor Miami is 100% authentic and brand new, with original packaging and Rado's 5-year warranty.

Free shipping and free returns

Products priced at $150 or more ship free within the 48 contiguous United States. Approved returns within 30 days of delivery come with a prepaid return label; items must be unused and in original condition and packaging. Lexor Miami does not ship to Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, APO/FPO/DPO addresses, freight forwarders or international destinations. Expedited shipping options are available at checkout if you need your DiaStar quickly, for example for a birthday or anniversary.

Bracelet sizing in our Miami showroom

Visit Lexor Miami at 2371 NW 20th St, Miami, FL 33142, Monday to Saturday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with free parking and on-site security. See the DiaStar in person and have the bracelet sized on the spot.

Trusted by thousands

Lexor Miami is a women-owned family business with more than 20 years in luxury retail and over 3,100 five-star Google reviews. Customers across the United States trust Lexor Miami for authentic Swiss watches, honest advice and a personal shopping experience that feels more like a boutique than a website.

Safe, flexible payment

Pay securely with major credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal, Shop Pay and other trusted payment methods at checkout.

Expert help

Ask about sizing or gifting on WhatsApp, call +1 (305) 633-0950, use the contact page or read the store FAQs.

DiaStar Original R12161313 vs. Similar Watches

Here is how the R12161313 compares with other watches at Lexor Miami. Prices reflect Lexor Miami's listings at the time of writing.

Model	Design	Calendar	Character	Price
Rado DiaStar Original R12161313	38 mm oval, gold PVD Ceramos, green mosaic	Day + date	Vintage-glam, scratch-resistant	$2,200
Rado DiaStar Original Skeleton LE R12166309	38 mm oval, gold PVD, skeleton	None	Limited to 555, visible movement	$2,800
Hamilton Jazzmaster Day Date Auto H32505131	Round steel dress watch	Day + date	Classic, understated	$1,045
Hamilton Khaki Field King Day-Date H64475560	40 mm steel field watch, green dial	Day + date	Casual, military heritage	$795
Rado Captain Cook Discover R32279312	40.7 mm black ceramic, green dial	Date	Modern, sporty	$4,250

DiaStar Original vs. DiaStar Skeleton

Both share the 38 mm oval case and gold PVD Ceramos bezel. The Skeleton Limited Edition reveals its movement and is limited to 555 pieces. The R12161313 offers a shimmering mosaic dial with crystals, a practical day-date and a steel bracelet at a lower price.

DiaStar vs. Hamilton day-date watches

The Hamilton Jazzmaster Day Date and Khaki Field King Day-Date offer the same useful complication at lower prices in classic round cases. The DiaStar adds Rado's scratch-resistant materials, an iconic oval design and a jewelry-like dial.

DiaStar vs. Captain Cook Discover

Both feature green dials. The Captain Cook Discover is a modern, all-ceramic sports watch; the DiaStar is a vintage-inspired dress-sport watch with gold accents and day-date.

Browse all luxury watches or our limited edition watches at Lexor Miami.

The Luxury Lifestyle: Mid-Century Glamour, Miami Style

On the wrist: the oval case follows the line of the wrist for a comfortable, elegant fit.

Mid-century Miami

Miami's MiMo (Miami Modern) architecture, with its curves, bold shapes and optimism, was born in the same era as the DiaStar. Wear the R12161313 along Biscayne Boulevard or in North Beach and it feels right at home, a perfect match of 1960s design and contemporary Miami style.

From brunch to black tie

The green and gold DiaStar dresses up a linen shirt at brunch in Coral Gables and looks equally polished with a tuxedo at a gala in Brickell. Its oval case and faceted crystal make it as much an accessory as a timepiece.

A jewelry-like watch that is equally at home on men's and women's wrists.

A gift with a story

Watches make the most meaningful gifts when they come with a story worth telling. The DiaStar Original lets you tell one: the first scratch-resistant watch, born in 1962, still made in Switzerland today. Its unisex 38 mm size makes it a thoughtful choice for a partner, a parent or a graduate, and its green-and-gold palette feels celebratory without being flashy. For anniversaries, consider pairing it with a matching gold accessory from Lexor Miami's eyewear selection.

Pair it with gold eyewear

Gold accents look superb together. Pair the DiaStar with gold-detailed Cartier sunglasses or Cartier optical frames for a perfectly coordinated look.

Caring for your DiaStar Original

• Wipe the bezel, crystal and bracelet with a soft microfiber cloth.
• Rinse with fresh water after swimming and dry thoroughly.
• Avoid setting the day or date between about 9 PM and 3 AM.
• Avoid hard impacts and strong magnetic fields.
• Have the watch serviced by an authorized Rado service center as recommended.

Make It Yours – Shop Now

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is the Rado DiaStar Original R12161313?

It is $2,200 at Lexor Miami, with free shipping within the 48 contiguous states and Rado's 5-year warranty.

What movement does the DiaStar Original use?

Rado's Caliber R764 Swiss automatic, with 25 jewels, an 80-hour power reserve, a Nivachron hairspring and day-date display.

What size is the DiaStar Original R12161313?

38 mm wide and 12.1 mm thick, weighing 140 g.

Is the DiaStar Original water resistant?

Yes, to 100 m (10 bar).

What is the bezel made of?

Ceramos, Rado's scratch-resistant composite, with a polished yellow-gold PVD coating.

Are the hour markers real diamonds?

No. The 11 hour markers are crystal stones set in yellow-gold-colored mounts.

Where are the day and date?

Both are displayed at 6 o'clock.

Is the DiaStar Original unisex?

Yes. Its 38 mm oval case suits both men and women.

Why is the DiaStar famous?

Launched in 1962, the DiaStar was presented as the world's first scratch-resistant watch and established Rado's reputation as the "Master of Materials."

Is the bracelet gold?

It is a gold-tone link bracelet, coordinated with the gold PVD bezel, with a folding clasp engraved "RADO."

Can the bracelet be resized?

Yes. Links can be removed, and Lexor Miami can size it in the showroom.

What is the warranty?

Rado provides a 5-year warranty.

Is the crystal scratch-resistant?

Yes. It is vertically faceted sapphire with an anti-reflective coating on the inside.

Can I return it if it doesn't suit me?

Yes. Unused items in original condition and packaging can be returned within 30 days of delivery with a prepaid label. Email info@lexormiami.com first to request a return authorization.

Can I see it in person?

Yes. Visit Lexor Miami at 2371 NW 20th St, Miami, FL 33142, Monday through Saturday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Is the Rado DiaStar Original worth it?

If you want a distinctive Swiss automatic with real history, scratch-resistant materials, a practical day-date and a dial that shimmers in every light, the DiaStar Original R12161313 offers a rare combination of heritage and everyday performance.

Ready to Wear an Icon?

The Rado DiaStar Original R12161313 is available at Lexor Miami in limited quantities. Order today for free U.S. shipping, free returns and Rado's 5-year warranty.

Buy the DiaStar Original – $2,200

Free U.S. Shipping · 30-Day Free Returns · 5-Year Rado Warranty · 100% Authentic

Conclusion: Sixty Years of Resisting Time

The Rado DiaStar Original R12161313 carries forward the idea that made Rado famous in 1962: a watch built to stay beautiful. Its oval stainless steel case, polished gold PVD Ceramos bezel and vertically faceted sapphire crystal resist the wear of daily life, while its iridescent green mosaic dial with 11 crystal stones adds glamour. Inside, the R764 automatic delivers day-date practicality, 80 hours of power and Nivachron protection, all with 100 m water resistance.

At Lexor Miami, you get it with Rado's 5-year warranty, free shipping across the contiguous states, free returns and in-store bracelet sizing.

Explore all luxury watches, our limited edition watches and the Lexor Miami blog. When you are ready, the Rado DiaStar Original R12161313 is waiting for you.

Shop DiaStar Original Now