Scottish watchmaker anOrdain has built an enviable reputation as one of Britain’s premier dial artisans, particularly renowned for their mastery of Grand Feu enamel. Now, the Glasgow-based brand is expanding their material expertise with something entirely new: in-house porcelain dials.
The anOrdain Model 2 Porcelain represents more than just another colorway—it’s a technical leap that showcases the brand’s commitment to traditional craftsmanship while solving practical production challenges that have long limited their output.
From Clay to Crown
At £1,800 excluding VAT, this latest offering becomes one of anOrdain’s most accessible timepieces, though don’t mistake accessibility for compromise. The Model 2 Porcelain delivers the same artisanal quality that has made anOrdain a favorite among collectors who appreciate hand-crafted British horology.
With its 39.5mm steel case housing a reliable La Joux-Perret G101 movement, this watch bridges the gap between affordable luxury and genuine craftsmanship—a combination that’s increasingly rare in today’s market.
The transition from enamel to porcelain wasn’t merely about expanding options; it represents a strategic evolution that allows anOrdain to serve more customers while maintaining their exacting standards.
After a three-year development period, the brand has perfected a porcelain dial process that captures their signature aesthetic while dramatically improving production efficiency.
Timeless Aesthetics
The magic behind anOrdain’s porcelain dials lies in understanding the fundamental similarities between porcelain and their beloved Grand Feu enamel.
Both materials require kiln firing and precise mineral combinations, but where enamel demands painstaking single-dial production from delicate glass powder, porcelain’s glazed clay foundation enables small-batch manufacturing. This seemingly simple difference transforms anOrdain’s production capacity, allowing them to create significantly more watches in the same timeframe.
The Model 2 Porcelain’s striking black dial emerges from a carefully formulated glaze incorporating iron oxide compounds, creating an intense depth that serves as the perfect canvas for gold-plated Arabic numerals and hands.
The design captures distinct Art Deco influences reminiscent of the Gatsby era, enhanced by anOrdain’s bespoke typography that gives each numeral character and presence. A red lacquered seconds hand with arrow tip provides the sole color accent, creating visual hierarchy without overwhelming the monochromatic elegance.
Beneath the artisanal dial beats the La Joux-Perret G101 caliber, a movement that has become the gold standard among independent watchmakers who prioritize reliability over in-house manufacturing. Operating at 28,800 vibrations per hour with 24 jewels, this automatic movement delivers a practical 68-hour power reserve while maintaining the slim 11mm case profile that makes the Model 2 exceptionally wearable.
The production approach reflects anOrdain’s customer-focused philosophy—early porcelain examples were offered to customers on their enamel waiting lists, allowing loyal supporters first access to the new material. Now available to new customers with a six-month lead time and limited to one watch per customer, the Model 2 Porcelain maintains exclusivity while improving accessibility.
Water resistance extends to 50 meters, making this suitable for daily wear despite its artisanal nature. The leather strap complements the vintage-inspired aesthetic while ensuring comfort during extended wear.
