In a monochrome, modernist twist on the recently released A1 First Series, London upstart brand Anoma—short for Anomaly— has announced its followup, the appropriately named A1 Slate. Sharing the same smooth triangular shape with rounded angles and an offset face, the A1 Slate was similarly inspired by a free-form table designed by Charlotte Perriand in the 1950s, and Constantin Brâncuși’s modernist sculptures. The new gray, black, and white color scheme, however, promises a more subtle take on the shape that aligns more with the third inspiration—river stones, smoothed over time by passing water.
The 316L stainless steel triangular case is likely the first detail on the A1, whether the First Series or the Slate, that an observer will notice. Measuring in at 30mm x 38mm (though Anoma notes that the shape and lack of lugs make the fit closer to 37mm), the case is mirror-polished, and meant to refract and bend light at every angle. Without having the watch on hand, I can’t vouch for this effect, but Worn & Wound’s own Zach Weiss reviewed the A1 First Series back in January 2024 and attested to the charm of the watch’s styling and finish.
The vertically-brushed dial itself stands out against the case, with individually-engraved contrasting inner triangles coated with three layers of glossy black lacquer. Leaf hour and minute hands adorn the dial, with the Anoma logo below the centerpoint. A cleverly-situated cross with lines at the 12, 3, 6, and 9 o’clock positions divides the dial into four sections, and additional hour markers occupy the space between. Underneath the mid-century styling is a Sellita SW100 automatic movement with 50m of water resistance. An anti-reflective sapphire crystal and a gray Italian leather strap complete the A1 Slate package.
Whether or not the more subdued color scheme will appeal to you is entirely subjective, but it certainly gives the A1 Slate a sleeker, more science-fiction inspired appearance than the original model, which featured a dial of contrasting blues, and could be optioned on a beige strap. As such, my feeling is that strap choice will play a big role in the overall vibe of any given A1 Slate, whether the wearer goes for the included gray strap’s cool, stony aesthetic, or perhaps picks a pop of color to further bring out contrast with the smoky dial and mirror finish of the case.
The same charm and stylistic quirks that made a splash upon the release of its predecessor mean that the Anoma A1 Slate is poised to be a conversation piece, even in its new monochrome dressing. The subtler design could also open the door for more stylistically-cautious enthusiasts to try a uniquely-shaped watch that may have been “too much” in crazier colors.
Orders for the A1 Slate open on March 10th, 2025, with a delivery goal of May 2025. The retail price is £1,800. Anoma
