In just two years, London-based Anoma has already carved out its own position in the watch world through its unique sculptural design that still looks like a traditional wristwatch. The brand’s third iteration of its signature A1 case, the A1 Optical, pushes this vision even further with a dial that transforms simple geometry into something hypnotic.
Distortion as Art Form
Where the original A1 and its Slate variant relied on color and finishing to create the overall aesthetic, the Optical takes a different approach entirely. Offered in silver and copper, the triangular dial features fifty individually engraved triangles each slightly offset from the next, creating an optical illusion that shifts and moves at different angles. Each triangle is carved by hand using a dragged engraving tool, then sandblasted and hand-polished to achieve the right balance of reflection and depth.
The technique draws inspiration from Op Art pioneers like Bridget Riley and Ferruccio Gard, artists who understood that simple geometric patterns could create profound visual effects. On the wrist, the dial becomes a miniature kinetic sculpture, with the triangular pattern appearing to pulse and flow as you move your arm.
The Foundation Remains Strong
Anoma wisely chose not to mess with the A1’s core design language. The rounded triangular case, inspired by Charlotte Perriand’s 1950s furniture, still measures 39mm, but Anoma says it wears closer to 37mm thanks to its lug-free construction. Likewise, the 9.45mm thickness feels even thinner due to the case’s curved profile that hugs the wrist naturally.
Inside, the watch is powered by the reliable Sellita SW100 automatic with 38 hours of power reserve. To maintain the clean lines of the stainless steel case, it’s designed with a recessed crown accessible through a cutout in the caseback rather than disrupting the side profile of the watch. Lastly, the watch comes with a dark gray grained Italian leather strap with a steel buckle on the end.
Collector Appeal
The first 300 pieces (150 each in silver and copper) will be numbered and include original artwork by optical artist Adam Fuhrer, who collaborated on the dial design. These pen-plotted pieces reinterpret the watch’s pattern in a larger format, gradually distorting as they radiate outward.
Spec Sheet
Model: Anoma A1 Optical
Case Material: 316L stainless steel
Case Size: 39mm
Case Thickness: 9.45mm
Dial: Engraved copper or silver with optical art pattern
Movement: Sellita SW100 automatic
Water Resistance: 50m
Strap: Gray grained Italian leather
Limited Edition?: Yes, 300 (150 each)
Pricing & Availability
Orders open August 7 at 2:00 PM GMT through Anoma’s website, with delivery expected in October. The first 300 numbered pieces are priced at £2,200 (~$2,955) and include the companion artwork. Non-numbered versions will follow in regular production, though timing hasn’t been specified. Given Anoma’s track record of selling out quickly, having your finger ready on the buy button wouldn’t be a bad idea.
Recap
Anoma A1 Optical
Anoma returns with another significant take on its triangular A1 watch, this time with inspiration from Op Art, putting a hypnotic optical illusion on the dial that gets distorted from different angles.
