stories on hard material matters - Ceratizit S.A.

RADO, CARBIDE WATCH CASES
Interview mit Peter Oppliger, Purchasing Manager Rado
How did the partnership with CERATIZIT start?
Oppliger: “The partnership began in the middle of the
1980’s. After carrying out a detailed study about batch
production of our model `The Original´ whose success
has been unparalleled since 1962, we decided to
modify our production method. We no longer wanted
to produce the watch crown of our top model through
pressing but through injection moulding. So we referred
to Cerametal in Luxembourg.”
Why does Rado count on carbide from CERATIZIT?
Oppliger: “CERATIZIT has a reputation as a reliable
business partner. Its extensive know-how in the field of
carbide injection moulding enables embossing of our
logo in the watch case. In this way it’s also easier for us
to proceed against counterfeits.”
What is important with regard to the watch cases? What
are the special characteristics and properties?
Oppliger: “Since its foundation 50 years ago Rado has
always been a watch manufacturer who has focused
specifically on technology and innovative batch produc-
tion processes. At the time of the market launch the
objective was to create a watch on which time would
leave no traces, i.e. a scratchproof watch. For this
purpose you need a hard and sufficiently shockproof
material. Carbide combines these characteristics
and in addition is a visually pleasing material, which is
extremely important for watches.”
What are the current projects and further developments?
Oppliger: “Following its pioneering spirit Rado is working
on several projects simultaneously; however, we are
unable to discuss anything particular about them right
now. CERATIZIT has offered us a very interesting new carbide
which is light and hardly releases any nickel. So it
can continuously be in contact with the skin. This new
material allows us to think about many possible applications
for the future.”
Are there any materials which compete with carbide?
Oppliger: “In a certain respect high-tech ceramic manu-
facture which was introduced in the watch industry
by Rado, is a carbide competitor. Its lightness and
hypoallergenic properties make this ceramic a material
which can be easily worn on the wrist without complications.”
What would CERATIZIT have to optimise in order to score
additional points and to get more business?
Oppliger: “As for every other supplier for us it seems
important to maintain close cooperation and good
communication. As these are luxury articles where
aesthetics and quality are basic requirements it is
obviously decisive to guarantee consistent and
impeccable quality.”
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