In a world jaded by and saturated with collaborations, the most compelling ones are those forged in moments of genuine curiosity and not in boardrooms. These are the kinds where one question leads to another, opening the door for ideas to rearrange themselves into something entirely different. Such was the case when Rado global ambassador Ji Chang-wook stepped into the brand’s high-tech ceramic laboratory in Switzerland. What was initially intended as a simple tour became a meeting of creative minds as the South Korean megastar’s intrigue with the alchemy behind Rado’s signature materials sparked ideas for how form, colour and function could take on a new life. The result is the Rado True Square Open Heart × Ji Chang-wook Limited Edition that marries Rado’s mastery of modern materials with the actor’s personal symbolism.
Rado’s True Square Open Heart forms the foundation of the South Korean creative exponent, a piece that he finds most comfortable with after seemingly wearing every major model across Rado’s portfolio. “I chose the True Square because it’s the watch I wear most comfortably and enjoy the most. Since it’s a model I often wear in real life, I thought it would be great to create my own watch with it,” shares Ji. Part of Ji’s personal touch includes twelve rubies set into the hour indices. “We discovered that in Korean culture, red is known for bringing good luck and protection. Then, on a special, more personal note, Ji Chang-wook told us that the ruby was also his birthstone, so we all thought it would be delightful to add 12 bright-red rubies to the timepiece to mark the hours. They’re a beautiful visual complement to the Open Heart design,” shares Rado CEO Adrian Bosshard.
Ji’s choice of a monobloc matte black high-tech ceramic case was the ideal foil to the brilliance of the rubies. Even though the rounded corners of the True Square’s case might give the watch a softer appearance, it is anything but thanks to Rado’s expertise in high-tech ceramic. Cutouts in the Rado Calibre R734 bridges showcase the movement’s essentials, which blend harmoniously with the dial. Flipping the watch around reveals a sandblasted titanium case back and smoked sapphire crystal with Ji Chang-wook’s signature, and printed white texts “ONE OUT OF 987” (a tribute to Ji’s 1987 birth year) and “LIMITED EDITION” to commemorate the special creation.
Ji Chang-wook at the official watch launch at centralwOrld
To mark this special occasion, Ji Chang-wook was in Bangkok, Thailand, not only to launch his newly created limited edition timepiece but also to inaugurate Rado’s first boutique in the Thai capital. The festivities began in Central Park, where Rado opened its first-ever flagship boutique in Bangkok, followed by the official launch of the watch at centralwOrld. During our time in Bangkok, Thailand, we spoke to Ji Chang-wook and Rado CEO Adrian Bosshard about the makings of a successful partnership and more.
Acting and watchmaking require both precision and emotion. Where do you see the parallels between the two worlds?
Ji Chang-wook (JCW): Personally, I don’t think they’re very different. In any profession — not just acting — effort and practice are essential to achieving good results, even if the audience doesn’t always see how much work goes into it. With watches, some people may simply say, “It’s a black watch” or “It’s a white watch,” without realising the depth of craftsmanship behind it. In acting, whether it’s an action scene or a romantic moment, everything comes from emotion and precision. Every scene requires intention. In that sense, I feel acting and watchmaking are very similar — both require meticulous work to produce something that appears effortless.
What’s something interesting you’ve learnt about watches, whether in style or technical know-how, through your partnership with Rado?
JCW: Through this collaboration as an ambassador and while designing the watch together, I learnt just how high-tech complex ceramic production is. Before visiting Switzerland, I didn’t realise how difficult it is to create high-quality ceramics. Seeing the process firsthand was eye-opening. I’ve also come to appreciate that a watch isn’t just about function. Of course, it needs to tell time accurately, but design has become equally important. Today, a watch is more than a tool — it’s part of someone’s identity. So I think both design and function must work together.
With each passing year, we see time differently. How has your relationship with time evolved over the years?
JCW: Every minute feels meaningful to me now — precious, even. I often feel like there isn’t enough time, and of course, we can never turn it back. Today becomes the past of tomorrow, and every moment becomes part of our history and identity. For me, the goal in life isn’t anything complicated. It’s about spending good days on set, doing my work step by step, and sharing those moments with the people I work with. That’s what makes each day feel worthwhile.
The official inauguration of Rado’s first-ever flagship boutique in Central Park, Bangkok
What is the key to making a collaborative watch truly successful?
Adrian Bosshard (AB): When Ji Chang-wook visited our ceramic manufacture and headquarters in Lengnau last year, we immediately saw how genuinely interested he was — not only in the brand, but in the product itself. It made perfect sense to bring our strengths together. On our side, we have the expertise in watchmaking, movement development and ceramic innovation. He brought a creative vision that inspired our designers with new combinations and ideas. Because he shares our passion and enthusiasm, the collaboration felt natural. The result speaks for itself — people are genuinely excited when they see the watch.
With younger customers valuing individuality and design over status, how is Rado engaging with this new mindset of luxury?
AB: This shift actually aligns perfectly with our brand. We’ve always shaped our identity through distinctive design and material innovation. Younger customers today are very well informed — they do their research especially through digital and social media. They care about long term value. That’s where Rado’s DNA comes in. Our high-tech ceramic will look the same even after 10 or 20 years — it won’t scratch, it’s lightweight, and it’s comfortable to wear. These are rational values that matter to young consumers, alongside emotional connection. So while status is still part of luxury, it’s no longer enough for a brand to simply charge high prices. Customers want substance. We can offer that, which is why we’re seeing strong momentum even in a challenging global environment. Young people today are looking for real, lasting value — and that’s exactly what we provide.
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