AnOrdain, the Glaswegian watchmaker renowned for its exquisite grand feu enamel dials, is expanding its porcelain collection with the introduction of the Model 1 Porcelain. This new timepiece, a follow-up to last year's Model 2 Porcelain, showcases a more traditional aesthetic while retaining the brand's signature playful touches. Although AnOrdain's primary expertise lies in vitreous enamel, the venture into porcelain dials is a strategic move to manage the overwhelming demand for its meticulously handcrafted watches.

The Model 1 Porcelain maintains the brand’s dedication to artisanal methods, with dials meticulously crafted in its Glasgow workshop. Unlike mass-produced ceramic alternatives, AnOrdain's porcelain dials are created through a time-honored process involving high-temperature firing of clay and vitreous glaze. This demanding technique results in a high rejection rate, with only a fraction of the approximately 300 produced dials making it to the final product. The watch's design incorporates a 38mm stainless steel case, a 46mm lug-to-lug measurement, and an 11mm thickness, featuring polished facets on the lugs and bezel, complemented by a brushed midcase and screwed-in caseback. The movement powering the Model 1 Porcelain is the La Joux-Perret G101, available in a standard version or a decorated A1 variant with an exhibition caseback and spiral anthracite striping. Set to launch on August 27th, with early access for existing customers, the initial batch will comprise 70 watches, with subsequent monthly restocks. Pricing begins at $2,950 for the standard G101 model, with the decorated version available for $3,400.

The Artistry of the Model 1 Porcelain Dial

The AnOrdain Model 1 Porcelain stands out with its distinct white glazed porcelain dial, a testament to the brand's commitment to traditional craftsmanship. While AnOrdain is celebrated for its grand feu enamel, its foray into porcelain dials, following last year's Model 2 Porcelain, brings a fresh yet classical appeal. The production process for these porcelain dials is painstaking, carried out entirely by hand in the brand's Glasgow workshop. Unlike industrial methods involving zirconium ceramic sheets or injection-molded clay slurry, AnOrdain adheres to traditional porcelain-making. This involves firing clay and vitreous glaze at intense temperatures, a process that, despite appearing scalable, results in a significantly high rejection rate. Out of approximately 300 dials produced, only a small number meet the brand's exacting standards, underscoring the immense skill and precision required for each piece.

The dial's typography, a collaboration with graphic and type designer Kia Tasbihgou, pays unmistakable homage to the classic Breguet numerals. This classical inspiration is beautifully complemented by a unique heat-blued steel handset, which pairs a Breguet hour hand with an angular, skeletonized syringe hand. A subtle yet thoughtful detail is the '0' numerals on the dial, designed to echo the open circle of the hour hand, creating a cohesive visual narrative. This blend of classicism with a playful, artistic twist sets the Model 1 Porcelain apart, demonstrating AnOrdain's ability to innovate within traditional frameworks. The craftsmanship extends beyond the dial to the watch's reasonably compact stainless steel case, measuring 38mm in diameter, 46mm lug-to-lug, and 11mm in thickness. The case design features short lugs with broad outer polished facets, giving them a slim appearance on the wrist. The polished, rounded bezel contrasts elegantly with the brushed midcase and screwed-in caseback, ensuring a sophisticated finish that respects both aesthetics and wearability.

Precision Engineering and Market Anticipation

Powering the AnOrdain Model 1 Porcelain is the reliable La Joux-Perret G101 movement, offering two distinct options to cater to varying preferences. The standard G101 caliber provides a robust and accurate timekeeping experience, while an optional decorated A1 version elevates the watch's aesthetic appeal. The decorated variant comes with an exhibition caseback, allowing a glimpse into the intricate mechanics within. This version features a unique spiral anthracite striping and a partially skeletonized rotor, showcasing the meticulous attention to detail. Both versions of the G101 movement share identical performance specifications, boasting a beat rate of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz) and a substantial power reserve of 68 hours, ensuring consistent and dependable operation.

The Model 1 Porcelain is further enhanced by an in-house produced leather strap, designed to complement the watch's refined aesthetic and comfortable wearability. The timepiece is set to be released for purchase on August 27th, with a special 24-hour early access window provided to existing AnOrdain customers. The initial production run will consist of 70 watches, reflecting the brand's controlled approach to manufacturing and its commitment to quality over quantity. AnOrdain anticipates small monthly restocks to meet ongoing demand. The pricing for the Model 1 Porcelain is set at $2,950 for the standard G101 caliber, while the decorated A1 caliber with its exhibition caseback is available for $3,400. This pricing strategy reflects the artisanal nature of the watches and the brand's unique blend of traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design sensibilities. The brand's established reputation for high-quality, handcrafted pieces, coupled with its innovative design collaborations, ensures that the Model 1 Porcelain will be a highly sought-after addition to any discerning collector's repertoire.