If you recall, it was not all that long ago that we brought you word of the anOrdain Model 2 (you can see that here). Since that initial article, we were able to spend a few weeks with a loaner of the new watch in its medium-size case. So, read on to see what all you get with the anOrdain Model 2 MKII.
While the anOrdain Model 2 MKII is ostensibly a field watch (simple steel case, time-only display, and so on) it feels like so much more. For me, that’s because of the enamel dial, which gives you a look and sheen unlike any other dial you’re going to come across. They’ve then come up with their own font which shows up as skeletonized numerals on the dial; the hour indices are also hollowed out. This carries the theme from the handset, which are elongated (and open) loops with luminous bars at their end to cleanly indicate the time.
In many ways, the dial felt like a piece of fine, well, porcelain. Not that I could feel the dial under the sapphire crystal. No, it’s more in the look. Here, with the white dial and blue accents, it felt very much like a Royal Delft plate or vase. It was crisp and clean, and pointed to a material skill that has quite a deep history.
Rather than leaning into that blue color scheme, the anOrdain Model 2 MKII was paired to a grey suede strap. This toned down the watch a bit, and I felt would help it blend into a wider range of situations. Then again, with the quick release spring bars, popping another one into the 18mm lugs (or 20mm on the larger case) would be a cinch.
All in all, it made for a very comfortable watch on the wrist. The 36mm case felt right on my wrist, and that strap – which was neither too thin nor too thick – held it securely in place. Even with the automatic movement (the Sellita SW-210-1) the watch did not feel overly heavy whatsoever. In fact, you’d be tempted to think of it as a dressier watch with the dimensions and weight, but this is very much a watch meant for everyday usage. Sure, that dial is a bit more precious, but the steel case is ready to keep it safe.
Just one word of caution – while the anOrdain Model 2 MKII is a field watch, it is one that you really shouldn’t swim with. The 5 ATM water resistance rating will certainly keep things dry if you get caught in the rain (or while you’re washing your hands), I just would not want to keep it submerged for too long and risk overwhelming those gaskets on the crown stem.
All in all, the anOrdain Model 2 MKII is an absolutely lovely piece. They are indeed new hands keeping the old ways alive, and doing it in small batches that help keep the uniqueness of the watches undiluted. If you’re looking for a three-hander unlike anything your friends have, this is a watch that should be at the top of your list to check out. When it comes time to buy one, the medium size will come in at £1700 ($2,223) and the large at £1800 ($2,354) plus VAT if applicable. It’s also worth noting that if you’re not a fan of Delft, there are other dial finishes, and you can also opt for a brushed or polished finish on the case. No wrong way to go, per se, but we really do like that white-and-blue version. Check them all out over at anOrdain.com
Tech Specs from anOrdain
- Dial: Vitreous enamel on copper
- Case finish: brushed or polished
- Movement: Sellita SW-210-1 + Incabloc shock protection
- Glass: Sapphire with 6 layers of anti-reflective coating
- Hands: custom-made and heat-treated, finished with Super-Luminova tips
- Case back: Solid screw-in
- Waterproof: 5ATM
- Warranty: 5 years
- Medium
- Case diameter: 36mm
- Lug to lug length: 43mm
- Case depth: 11mm
- Strap width: 18mm
- Large
- Case diameter: 39.5mm
- Lug to lug length: 46mm
- Case depth: 11mm
- Strap width: 20mm
