Rado Brings Back the Anatom, a Lost Classic from the 1980s

Over the weekend, Rado dipped into their archives to bring back a lost classic from the 1980s. If you can recall the early 80s (or just have a penchant for watches of this era) you might remember the Anatom. This square cased watch with a dramatically curved case and sapphire crystal has been ripe for repurposing for the last few years – it certainly has some integrated bracelet sports watch notes to it. What Rado has done with this release is take the premise of the watch from the 80s and modernize it using Rado’s contemporary design language. The result is an Anatom that doesn’t look much like the original, but clearly shares some DNA and is unmistakably a Rado. 

The most significant difference between the original Anatom and the new version is the more prominent use of ceramic in the present day model. Rado has always been keen to experiment with materials, especially ceramic, but they’ve really leaned into this as part of their brand identity quite heavily in the last few years. Most of the key models in their lineup are either full ceramic, or ceramic in all the important places. That’s where the Anatom fits in. The new version has a PVD coated steel midcase, but the ceramic bezel leaves a large visual impression, and we also get a ceramic crown and a ceramic overlay on the integrated rubber strap’s clasp. The case measures 32.5mm x 46.3mm and is 11.3mm tall. As with the vintage versions of this watch, the case is curved, which in turn means the dial and crystal share that same curve, adding to the complexity of the manufacturing process while allowing for what should be a uniquely elegant wearing experience. 

There are a total of four dial options available at launch. First, a trio of options in fumé executions of blue, green, and a reddish orange hue that Rado refers to as cognac. These dials go completely black at the edges, and are accented with applied batons for the hours and a date display at the 6:00 position. There’s also a limited edition referred to as the Jubilé with a black lacquered dial and diamond hour markers. The Jubilé is limited to just 40 pieces, and would appear to be the ultimate modern tuxedo watch. 

All variants of the Anatom run on Rado’s R766 caliber (a rebadged ETA 2892) with 72 hours of power reserve. The retail price for the non-limited edition versions is $3,350. We’ll have one of these in for review soon, and will have detailed hands-on impressions. Rado