Anordain Model 1 Porcelain: A Fresh Take on Classic Dial Craft

Introducing the Anordain Model 1 Porcelain

Anordain, a Scottish watchmaker renowned for its affordable enamel-dial timepieces, has unveiled the Model 1 Porcelain. This new release combines a classic porcelain dial with a bespoke typography that reinterprets traditional Breguet numerals, underscoring the brand's commitment to design excellence.

Design and Aesthetics

The Model 1 Porcelain features a clean, minimalist design typical of Anordain. The porcelain dial is hand-painted with a clay-based mixture, a method that preserves the artisanal charm while allowing for higher production volumes compared to enamel dials. The custom font, designed by Amsterdam-based graphic designer Kia Tasbihgou, adds a playful yet sophisticated twist to the classic Breguet style, complemented by a railway-style minute track and five-minute numerals. The hands echo Anordain's syringe design but with a Breguet-inspired hour hand, featuring a ring modeled after the font's off-center '0'.

Movement and Performance

Powering the Model 1 Porcelain is the La Joux-Perret G101 automatic movement, a reliable workhorse favored by many microbrands for its excellent price-to-performance ratio. It operates at 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz) and offers a 68-hour power reserve. For an additional cost, buyers can opt for the upgraded La Joux-Perret A1, which features a custom spiral motif decoration on the bridges and rotor, designed by a Glasgow-based artist exclusively for Anordain.

Production and Availability

Porcelain dial production involves applying clay to the dial blank and firing it, a process that, while traditional, is more scalable than enamel. Anordain states that one porcelain specialist can produce 30-40 dials per month, compared to 50 enamel dials by seven enamellers. This efficiency allows for a monthly output of 300 porcelain dials, though rejection rates can reach 90%. The Model 1 Porcelain is available outside the existing waiting lists, with existing customers receiving priority access for the first 24 hours. Initially, 70 pieces are available, with more to be produced monthly.

Price and Specifications

Diameter: 38 mm
Height: 11 mm
Material: Stainless steel
Crystal: Sapphire
Water resistance: 50 meters
Movement: La Joux-Perret G101 (or A1 with upgrade)
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds
Winding: Automatic
Power reserve: 68 hours
Strap: Leather with pin buckle
Price: ,950 (G101) / ,400 (A1)

Buying Tips and Authenticity Notes

When purchasing the Anordain Model 1 Porcelain, ensure you buy from authorized dealers or directly from Anordain to guarantee authenticity. The porcelain dial is unique to this model, and the custom font is a signature element. Given the limited initial availability, act quickly if interested, and consider the movement upgrade if you appreciate decorative details on the caseback.