Panasonic R-012G AM Radio

Panasonic R-012G AM Radio

Model: R-012G

Year Manufactured: 1977

Made in: Japan

Manufacturer: National Panasonic

Designer: Yamashita Era Staff

Dimensions: 65mm x 115mm x 30mm

Power: AAA Batteries

Features: AM Reception, Volume Dial, Tuning Dial

Produced by Matsushita Electric (National Panasonic) in 1977, the Panasonic R-012G is a definitive icon of late 1970s Japanese industrial design. The radio was awarded the prestigious Good Design Award in Japan upon its release. Known for its "Mister Thin" ultra-slim profile, the AM-only receiver features an ingenious circular PCB that integrates the scale and control pots to achieve its pocket-sized dimensions while running on just two AAA batteries.

Culturally, the R-012 series earned the nickname "Pepper" in Japan, popularized by the massive success of the J-pop duo Pink Lady and their hit single "Pepper Keibu" (Inspector Pepper), cementing the radio's status as a vibrant piece of pop-art history.