Why does watchmaking so often play by the same rules? The Anoma A1 embodies a more experimental and daring vision of watch design, breaking free from traditional constraints with its sculptural approach. It is a design defined by tension between balance and imbalance, softness and sharpness, boldness and subtlety.
The watch's rounded triangular shape draws inspiration from a free-form table created by Charlotte Perriand in the 1950s. Anoma’s love story with this design began a few years ago, when they first discovered one of these tables at an antique gallery in Paris. It forms the foundation of the A1.
This unique piece created for TimeForArt 2024 is a true expression of Anoma’s artistic sensibilities. Designed in collaboration with Jas Rewkiewicz, the dial features an engraved pattern inspired by optical art, a visual art style that uses geometric shapes, patterns, and colors to create optical illusions. Throughout the design process, Anoma particularly drew inspiration from the works of artists Bridget Riley and Ferruccio Gard.
A sequence of slightly offset triangles is meticulously repeated across the dial, creating a captivating optical illusion that gives the dial a sense of three-dimensionality and dynamic light play. The pattern is engraved directly into the metal base; the dial is then coated in black lacquer, enhancing its glossy finish and the sensation of depth. In keeping with the artistic nature of the watch, the dial remains free of any brand signature or indices, allowing the intricate pattern to take center stage.