Introducing: The Anoma A1 Optical
In 2024, Anoma introduced its first watch: the A1. The piece caused quite a stir among watch fans and sold out quickly. Subsequent releases with different dial colors have followed suit, with far more demand than supply. Now, there’s a new addition known as the A1 Optical, and from the photos, these pieces will likely be gone moments after the official ordering window opens.
I was fortunate to spend a few moments with the A1 Slate at this year’s British Watchmakers’ Day. As a London-based company, it was nice to meet Matteo Violet-Vianello, the founder, briefly and try on an Anoma. The watch felt composed, mature, and expensive. For a newer brand, it isn’t priced as an inexpensive foray, but it’s relatively approachable considering the quality in hand. The soft triangular shape, on the other hand, brought back thoughts of the Hamilton Ventura. This was the first watch I ever pined for, and I ended up saving up $325 to buy a gold-plated quartz reissue when I turned 15. Therefore, the A1 and I became fast friends on that warm London day. But enough reminiscing for now. Let’s take a look at the new A1 Optical.
The Anoma A1 Optical
The latest Anoma comes in a familiar form. The lugless triangular case shape has returned and is crafted from 316L stainless steel. The measurements are moderate with a width of 39mm and a length of 38mm. Interestingly, the brand is quick to point out that the watch wears like a 37mm piece due to the lack of lugs. Similarly, the 9.45mm thickness is deceiving due to the curved ends. A countersunk and flush-mounted crown lies at three o’clock.
A triangular sapphire crystal sits flush within the case, but its positioning does not follow the same orientation as the case. As a car nerd, I do not find it dissimilar from a Wankel rotor. Regardless of the far-fetched analogy, the look is pleasing and allows for an upright dial position that makes sense from a design and legibility perspective. The A1 Optical is paired with a gray, grained Italian leather strap and asymmetrical pin buckle. Despite the dressy presentation, the watch has an impressive depth rating of 50 meters.
Dials that employ several processes
The A1 Optical dials reflect light and are inspired by Optical Art. Two versions are available in either a copper or silver hue. To create the intricate patterns, an engraving tool inscribes 50 offset triangles. Then, the dials are sandblasted to add texture. Finally, each dial undergoes a hand-polishing process to create smooth, reflective ridges. While each Anoma release has brought a unique design, these watches are a visual treat.
The Sellita SW100 automatic inside
In keeping with the minimalist theme, the A1 Optical has a closed stainless steel case back fixed with four screws. Underneath this panel, the watch uses the Sellita SW100 automatic. The small 17.5mm diameter caliber has a frequency of 28,800vph and a power reserve of 38 hours. When I tried on a previous A1, I had initially hoped for a manual winding movement. However, the small crown design wouldn’t be the easiest for daily use.
Pricing and availability
The new A1 Optical is likely to be a hot seller the moment it goes on sale. Incidentally, the order window opens on August 7 at 2:00 PM GMT on the Anoma website. The brand will offer 150 numbered pieces in each dial tone. Each will come with a unique piece of art by optical artist Adam Fuhrer. The watches are priced at £2,200 and begin shipping in October 2025. The watches will eventually enter serial production, but the timeline hasn’t been specified. I’ve enjoyed Anoma’s A1 releases thus far, and the Optical is no exception. If the shape is of interest, this should prove to be a real beauty on the wrist.
