British microbrand Anoma has released its most compelling timepiece yet with the A1 Optical, a triangular watch featuring an unprecedented dial design that creates mesmerizing optical illusions through precisely engraved geometric patterns.
The release comes as shaped watches gain prominence over traditional round cases, with collectors increasingly drawn to unconventional designs. Following the success of pieces like the distorted Cartier Crash and high-end options from Berneron and Toledano & Chan, microbrands have embraced shaped cases to offer more accessible alternatives to luxury collectors.
Anoma’s A1 Optical features a dial engraved with 50 offset triangular patterns that create optical illusions as the wearer views it from different angles. The intricate pattern distorts and shifts, transforming the timepiece into miniature wearable artwork. The design draws inspiration from English painter Bridget Riley and Italian artist Ferruccio Gard, both renowned for their optical art contributions.
The mesmerizing dial is housed in a 39mm by 38mm polished triangular stainless steel case with rounded edges and 9.45mm depth. The thoughtful proportions ensure wearability despite the unconventional shape, while 50-meter water resistance provides practical functionality. A Swiss-made Sellita SW100 automatic movement with 38-hour power reserve powers the timepiece, paired with a grained grey Italian leather strap.
Since debuting in summer 2024, Anoma has rapidly built collector interest with its distinctive triangular A1 design. Notable enthusiasts include collectors Roni Madhvani and John Goldberger, whose endorsement has elevated the brand’s profile in the microbrand segment. The grey “Slate” variant released in March 2025 further demonstrated the platform’s versatility.
The A1 Optical represents a significant creative leap, showcasing how the triangular case can serve as canvas for innovative dial artistry. Unlike many microbrands that reinterpret classic designs, Anoma has created genuinely original aesthetics that stand apart in the crowded market.
Priced at £2,200 (approximately $2,923), the A1 Optical positions itself in the upper microbrand tier, below independent manufacturers like Berneron but reflecting the significant development costs and specialized manufacturing required for such unique pieces. The value proposition centers on design innovation rather than movement complications.
The first 300 pieces, split evenly between dial variants, will include special pen-plotted artwork by optical artist Adam Fuhrer, commissioned by Anoma and based on the A1 Optical’s dial design. Following the numbered edition sellout, Anoma plans continued production in non-numbered versions.
Orders open August 7th at 10 AM ET, with Anoma reporting a waiting list already ten times longer than available pieces. The overwhelming demand reflects the watch community’s appetite for genuinely innovative design in an increasingly crowded microbrand landscape.
For collectors seeking distinctive timepieces that challenge conventional watch aesthetics, the A1 Optical offers a compelling combination of artistic vision and wearable functionality at accessible luxury pricing.
