Get ready to see a watch like never before – the new Rado Anatom Skeleton is here, and it’s a game-changer. Imagine a timepiece that’s not just scratchproof but also reveals its inner workings in stunning detail. Rado, a brand synonymous with cutting-edge materials and bold designs, has taken its iconic Anatom model and given it a full-body X-ray, transforming it into the Anatom Skeleton. But here’s where it gets controversial: while some purists might argue that skeletonized watches sacrifice practicality for aesthetics, Rado proves that you can have both – and this is the part most people miss. Let’s dive into what makes this watch a masterpiece of innovation and style.
Rado’s journey began with the 1962 DiaStar, hailed as the ‘world’s first scratchproof watch,’ thanks to its revolutionary Hardmetal tungsten carbide case. Fast forward to 1983, and the Anatom emerged, blending Hardmetal with a sweeping convex sapphire crystal and a fluid, anatomical design. For its 40th anniversary, the Anatom received a high-tech ceramic upgrade, followed by ceramic bracelets a year later. Now, the Anatom Skeleton takes center stage, showcasing the intricate calibre R808 movement in all its glory.
Known as the ‘Master of Materials,’ Rado’s high-tech plasma ceramic is a showstopper. Unlike regular ceramic, it boasts a metallic sheen achieved in a plasma reactor heated to a staggering 20,000°C. This process alters the surface molecular structure, introducing carbon to create a futuristic liquid-metal appearance. The new Anatom Skeleton features a matte grey plasma ceramic bezel and crown, paired with a brushed stainless steel middle case. Rado’s focus on textures is evident in the cool, pearlescent ceramic contrasted with a smooth, velvety grey rubber strap and yellow gold-colored steel accents.
The ergonomically designed 32.5mm case sits comfortably on the wrist, thanks to its cylindrical and bevelled sapphire crystal, which is no small feat to manufacture. This edge-to-edge crystal, finished with grey metallization, isn’t just a protective layer – it’s an integral part of the watch’s architecture. And here’s a bold statement: Rado’s commitment to skeletonization isn’t just a trend; it’s a testament to their confidence in showcasing the craftsmanship behind their movements.
The dial is a masterpiece of contrasts, with anthracite-coated elements and yellow gold-colored cogs and wheels. Divided into three sections, it highlights the balance wheel, wheel train, and barrel in a way that’s both functional and mesmerizing. A suspended white minutes track with Super-LumiNova indices and openworked gold-colored hands ensures readability, even with so much going on. But is this design too busy, or is it the perfect balance of form and function? That’s for you to decide.
Flip the watch over, and a round sapphire glass reveals the calibre R808’s anchor-shaped rotor, adorned with Côtes de Genève. This movement delivers an impressive 80-hour power reserve and features a Nivachron hairspring, immune to magnetic fields and temperature changes. Priced at EUR 4,500, the Anatom Skeleton is a statement piece that blends heritage with innovation.
But here’s the question: Is the Rado Anatom Skeleton a must-have for watch enthusiasts, or does its bold design push the boundaries too far? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below. For more details, visit rado.com.
Technical Specifications – Rado Anatom Skeleton
- Case: 32.5mm diameter x 46.3mm length x 11.5mm height
- Matte grey high-tech plasma ceramic bezel and crown
- Cylindrical sapphire crystal with AR coating and grey metallised edges
- Brushed stainless steel case middle and caseback
- Round sapphire crystal on caseback
- Yellow gold-colored PVD-coated steel end pieces
- 50m water-resistance
- Dial: Openworked with nickel-colored lower plate, ruthenium-coated parts, and yellow gold-colored cogs
- Suspended minutes track with Super-LumiNova indices
- Openworked hour and minute hands with white SLN
- Movement: Rado calibre R808 (base ETA)
- Automatic, 80-hour power reserve
- 25 jewels, 21,600vph
- Nivachron anti-magnetic hairspring
- Adjusted in 5 positions
- Hours, minutes, central seconds
- Strap: Grey rubber strap with steel 2-fold clasp and matte plasma ceramic cover
- Reference: R10206109
- Price: EUR 4,500
