SHAPE SHIFTING

In the world of watches, where heritage is as important as watchmaking itself, these young designers are literally reshaping timepieces

- by Somya Rauthan

— For decades now, watch designs by legendary names like Gérald Genta, Jorg Hysek, Albert Gilbert, Emmanuel Gueit and more have created benchmarks that few have managed to reach. However, a new wave of young watch designers is breaking the mould, quite literally, and moving beyond familiar codes of case design. In the process, they are forging new paths, expanding horizons, and infusing watchmaking with fresh ideas.

— For decades now, watch designs by legendary names like Gérald Genta, Jorg Hysek, Albert Gilbert, Emmanuel Gueit and more have created benchmarks that few have managed to reach. However, a new wave of young watch designers is breaking the mould, quite literally, and moving beyond familiar codes of case design. In the process, they are forging new paths, expanding horizons, and infusing watchmaking with fresh ideas.

MATTEO VIOLET VIANELLO

London-based Anoma introduced the A1 First Series in June 2024, a model whose striking rounded triangular case design quickly gained traction. Inspired by Charlotte Perriand’s free-form tables and Constantin Brâncusi’s sculptures, the 100 pieces sold out quickly.