Indie Icons: anOrdain
In the world of independent watchmaking, where small brands carve their niche against industry giants, anOrdain has risen as a beacon of craftsmanship and artistic ingenuity. Based in Scotland, this microbrand has built a cult following with its stunning enamel dials, a rarity in modern watchmaking, let alone from an independent workshop. With meticulous attention to detail and a distinct aesthetic, anOrdain watches are an intersection of artistry and horology.
What exactly makes anOrdain stand out? Let’s take a deep dive into the brand, its origins, and why collectors and enthusiasts are enamored with these Scottish-made timepieces.
anOrdain’s roots
anOrdain was founded in 2015 by Lewis Heath, a designer with a passion for mechanical watches and an eye for detail. The company remains independent, with Heath leading a team of artisans, watchmakers, and designers in Glasgow. Unlike many microbrands that rely on outsourcing, anOrdain has taken a hands-on approach, particularly with its signature enamel dials – something rarely seen outside of Switzerland, and only big players like Jaeger-LeCoultre and Patek Philippe.
To become a master in a specific craft, the age-old saying states that it takes 10,000 hours. The anOrdain team has a workforce of 7 enamellers, continuously learning from their master watchmaker who has learned the trade after reaching that status.
Background and design ethos
The philosophy behind anOrdain watches is simple: blend old-world craftsmanship with contemporary design, ensuring every timepiece is functional art. The brand takes its name from Loch an Ordain in the Scottish Highlands, an area known for its rugged beauty and timeless appeal.
anOrdain has become synonymous with enamel dial watches, particularly its intricate fume dials, which feature a gradient effect that shifts beautifully under light. The fume technique requires layers of enamel to be carefully built up, polished, and fired, resulting in a deep finish that changes depending on the angle. This is a level of craftsmanship that even many high-end Swiss brands don’t attempt.
Why? The failure rate of an enamel dial is incredibly high. Not only is this bad for business, but the unique skillset also required to build these successfully takes a long time to train up new starters. In turn, this has caused the ever-increasing waiting lists of their popular models to reach the unfortunate months into years category.
The good news is that over the years, anOrdain has been able to reduce the failure rate from an estimated industry standard of 80-90%, down to a respectable 30% rejection rate. This has been largely a result of their focus on research & development by using different base materials (such as copper to silver). Taking up to 12 hours to complete a single handmade dial…the lower the failure rate the better for us all!
The company also places great emphasis on typography. The numerals and indices on anOrdain watches are custom designed in-house, inspired by cartographic maps and classic printmaking, making them both legible and artistic… and a little bit different than your typical options found on dress or field watches.
Where are anOrdain watches made?
Every anOrdain watch is assembled in Glasgow, Scotland. The company takes pride in the fact that it produces many of its components in-house, especially the enamel dials, which require incredible skill to perfect. While certain movement components and case materials may be sourced from Swiss or German manufacturers, the final assembly, quality control, and finishing are all carried out in Scotland. This positions anOrdain as one of the leading Scotland watch brands.
What movements does anOrdain use?
anOrdain carefully selects and adapts its calibres to complement its designs. The brand primarily uses Swiss-made movements from Sellita or La Joux-Perret, some of the most reliable movement suppliers in the industry.
- anOrdain Model 1 and Model 1 Fabrik are powered by the Sellita SW210-1, a manual-winding movement with a 42-hour power reserve. The decision to use a hand-wound calibre adds to the vintage charm and allows for a thinner case profile.
- anOrdain Model 2 uses an automatic movement, there is a choice between a Sellita SW210-1 or a La Joux-Perret G101.
- anOrdain Model 3, a newer addition to the lineup, is also expected to feature a refined Swiss movement, though specifics may evolve as the brand continues its innovation.
Specifications and features
The range has expanded to a quite extensive option list through different sizes, model variants and dial colours. The beauty of them all is how anOrdain watches have maintained a balance between refined proportions and wearability. Some key specifications across the range include:
- Case materials: Stainless steel
- Case sizes: 35mm and 39.5mm (Model 1), 36mm (Model 2), 38mm (Model 3)
- Lug width: 18mm or 20mm, depending on the model
- Water resistance: 50m – 100m
- Glass: Double-domed sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating
The sizing debate
anOrdain is also unique, in the sense that they offer a variety of sizes within each mode line. This is broken down into the following
- Small – This is the daintiest offering across the range, coming in at 35mm for the Model 1.
- Medium – Whilst modern day standards means this is still relatively small, the medium offerings come in at 38mm (for the Model 1), or slightly smaller for the Model 2 at 36mm (such as the Model 2 field watch comes in)
- Large – Again, dependent on the model but the largest size they offer within each range. The Model 1 case diameter is 41mm, whereas the Model 2 case diameter in large comes in at 39.5mm!
Regardless of the size that you may or may not settle on, and despite their artistic appeal, these watches are designed to be worn daily. These are deliberately versatile for both casual and formal occasions.
What else should you know about the anOrdain range?
anOrdain Model 1
The Model 1 is the brand’s flagship timepiece and the one that put anOrdain on the map. It features a classic round case, wire lugs, and the brand’s signature enamel dials. Launched in 2018, the initial anOrdain Model 1 was limited to circa 300 pieces.
The dial colour options, including the anOrdain blue fume, anOrdain green fume, and the more classic white enamel, offer plenty of personality without being overstated. The line-up has now brought us even more colours, including ‘Iron cream’, ‘Teal’ and one of our favorites, the anOrdain Japanese Oxblood in a deep rich red.
anOrdain Model 2
With a slightly smaller and more rugged design, the Model 2 draws inspiration from field watches. It’s a great choice for those who prefer something a little more utilitarian while still enjoying the elegance of an enamel dial watch.
My favourite? The racing green brings a unique depth of colour when housed within the matte steel case. This watch is designed to be worn while exploring the outdoors. We have covered some of our favourite field watches in the past, and this is another that could be added to that list.
anOrdain Model 3
The newest in the lineup, the Model 3 refines the brand’s signature aesthetic while introducing subtle improvements in case construction and movement finishing. It’s positioned as a bridge between the dressy Model 1 and the tool-like Model 2.
The Model 3 has a unique selling point compared to the others: its watch dial begins as a carved block of solid ash. This is then transposed and translated into an enamel dial, reflecting the unique indentations and curves. anOrdain have certainly gone above and beyond to create something incredibly unique.
Why anOrdain stands out and what is our pick of the bunch?
There are many independent watch brands out there, but few can match what anOrdain has achieved. Their approach to enamel dial watches is almost unheard of at their price point, and their commitment to handmade craftsmanship sets them apart from mass-produced alternatives. The brand’s Scottish roots also give it a unique edge. While most people associate fine watchmaking with Switzerland, Germany, or Japan, anOrdain has proven that Scotland watch brands deserve just as much recognition.
Introducing the new Porcelain Model 2!
It’s not just their enamel craftsmanship they are championing; 2025 marked a milestone with the release of the Model 2… now featuring a porcelain dial.
If the two watches are lined up next to each other, it would be difficult to recognise the difference between enamel and porcelain. However, porcelain is easier and quicker to produce, with anOrdain hoping to craft up to 30 per month.
For those who may not know the difference, and to keep this succinct – enamel dials are created by layering painted on, colored glass that is heated at high temperatures to bond with the metal dial under layer. Whereas porcelain dials are clay based, with a top-layer of vitreous glaze applied and then heat bonded at over 1000 degrees.
Final thoughts
anOrdain isn’t just a watch brand – it’s a testament to the revival of old-world craftsmanship in modern horology. From the breathtaking anOrdain fume dials to the meticulous typography, every aspect of these watches speaks of their dedication to artistry. Whether you’re considering an anOrdain watch as your first independent brand purchase or adding an anOrdain Model 1, 2 or 3 to an already well-rounded collection, there’s no denying the appeal of these Scottish-made timepieces.
With its limited production runs and growing cult-like following, anOrdain is a brand worth keeping an eye on. After all, when was the last time you saw an enamel dial watch crafted outside of Switzerland at this level?
So, is anOrdain the next great indie icon? We certainly think so and we also think it is time to get our name down on the long wait list for a Model 2 in racing green – watch this space!
