In 1962, Rado introduced the DiaStar as the first scratch-proof watch, which obtained the superlative due to its use of ceramic for the case. Ever since, the Swiss watchmaker has, more than anyone, been the most closely associated with the then-innovative material. However, Rado had some non-ceramic timepieces as well, such as the DiaStar Anatom, which debuted in 1983 and got its name from how it was designed to anatomically form to your wrist for comfort. Due to the limitations of technology at the time, the curved case led them to use stainless steel instead. Now, for the watch’s 40th anniversary, Rado has brought back the Anatom, yet this time fitting it in nicely with the brand’s reclaimed identity as the ceramic experts.

Unveiled this week, the new Anatom comes in four dial colors: green, blue, cognac, and black. The three non-black versions feature what we’re calling a spotlight effect on the gradient dial, where the color is most vibrant in the middle but fades out to black by the dial’s edges, seeming to transition seamlessly to the black bezel and ceramic case. Compared to the three production models, the all-black variant is limited to just 40 pieces. It features a polished bezel and has baguette-cut diamonds in place of eleven of its indices. Like the others, the 6 o’clock spot has a date window.

While nodding to its 1983 original, this revival is very much settled in the modern age of watchmaking. Aside from the use of high-tech ceramic this time around, the aesthetic of the watch is very much 2023. The original Anatom also used quartz movements but switched to automatic in the ‘90s, which this new model houses as well inside its 32.5mm x 46.3mm case. These timepieces are also adorned with textured rubber straps with ceramic-covered triple-folding steel clasps.

Priced at $3,350 or $10,100 for the 40th-anniversary model, the 2023 Anatom is available right now from Rado’s website.