MICROBRAND
AnOrdain: Reviving Enamel Watchmaking in Glasgow
In a modest Glasgow studio, a team crafts eight enamel dials weekly, creating some of the most sought-after pieces in independent watchmaking.
Image: source
Founded in 2015 by Lewis Heath, AnOrdain embarked on a challenging mission: to produce vitreous enamel dials entirely in-house using the traditional grand feu technique. This craft, nearly extinct and maintained by only a few specialists globally, was revived by Heath’s team who chose to master the intricate process themselves. Glasgow, an unconventional location for watchmaking, became the birthplace of AnOrdain’s unique approach, building its craft from scratch.
Enamel dials are notoriously difficult to perfect, requiring high-temperature firing where any flaw means starting anew. AnOrdain’s meticulous process results in just eight dials per week, each handcrafted. This limited production has led to a waitlist reportedly stretching into 2028, with completed watches becoming prized collectibles.
AnOrdain isn’t just preserving an old craft — it’s innovating it. The brand introduced the world’s first fumé enamel dial, featuring a graduated, smoky effect previously thought impossible in enamel. This spirit of innovation is evident in their 2023 ventures: the launch of the experimental Model 3 ‘Method,’ the acquisition of fellow Scottish brand Paulin Watches, and the opening of a new Glasgow facility. These moves reflect a microbrand with long-term ambitions.
More recently, AnOrdain expanded its offerings with its first porcelain dials, now featured in the Model 2 Porcelain — a further demonstration that the Glasgow studio is never content to stand still.
The Collection
The flagship Model 1 is a 38mm watch featuring AnOrdain’s signature vitreous enamel dial, powered by an ETA/SW movement, protected by sapphire crystal, water-resistant to 50m, and available with a shell cordovan or suede strap. Prices start at approximately £1,100 / $1,300 — remarkable value for a hand-fired enamel dial.
| MODEL | NOTES |
| Model 1 Fumé | World’s first fumé enamel dial; same 38mm spec as the standard Model 1. |
| Model 2 | Field-watch-inspired, larger case, enamel dial, priced around $1,300. |
| Model 2 Porcelain | Latest addition, introducing AnOrdain’s first porcelain dials. |
| Model 3 ‘Method’ | Experimental piece with carved wood-pattern enamel dial; limited numbers. |
Each model underscores the philosophy that a watch dial is its soul, not just its face. AnOrdain sells directly through its website, where you can monitor availability and join the waitlist.
And at Spot.Watch — that’s always worth noticing.