anOrdain Model 1vsVario Empire Art Nouveau Handwound
lug2lug doesn't sell watches. Buy links open the brand's or seller's own site. Some links are affiliate links: lug2lug may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Disclosures
Measurements
Catalog photos are all shot at the same flattering size. These aren't: every case below shares one millimeter scale.
Model 1
Empire Art Nouveau Handwound
Diameter
38mm
38mm
Lug-to-Lug
49mm
n/a
Thickness
11.5mm
11mm
lowest
Water Resistance
50m
50m
Power Reserve
42h
n/a
MSRP
$3,804
$888
lowest
Movement
Sellita SW210-1
Miyota 6T33
Case
3 specsCrystal & Dial
2 specsMovement
3 specsPricing
1 specsReviews
Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.
Owners and reviewers widely praise the anOrdain Model 1 for its exquisite vitreous enamel dial, noting its depth, unique light play, and custom typography. The watch is also commended for its elegant design, comfortable wearability, and scratch-resistant hardened case. Some owners appreciate the 38mm size and its excellent fit on average wrists. However, significant wait times, potentially exceeding two years, are a notable drawback. A few reviewers mention minor quirks of its handmade nature, such as dial taper or dial feet visibility in certain lighting, and one owner found the strap buckle uncomfortable. Overall, owners and reviewers rate the anOrdain Model 1 highly for its stunning, handmade enamel dial and excellent value for its artisanal craftsmanship.
Thoughtful finishing and beautiful color options are notable strengths of the anOrdain Model 1. The watch's lug-to-lug fit is relatively long, which may not suit everyone's wrist size, and the relatively low 5ATM water-resistance may limit its suitability for swimming or diving. Reviewers disagree on the movement used in the watch, with some mentioning the Sellita SW210 or La Joux Perret G101, while others mention the Sellita SW200.
Owners widely praise the Vario Empire Art Nouveau Handwound for its detailed, multi-layered dial with applied numerals and guilloche patterns, its elegant Art Deco styling, and the enjoyable winding feel of the Miyota 6T33 manual-wind movement visible through the exhibition case back. The included OEM strap is noted as surprisingly good and exceptionally soft, contributing to the watch's comfortable 38mm wearability. Some owners find the differing fonts on the sub-dials and perimeter less appealing, and the absence of a constant seconds sub-dial is noted as a drawback. Overall, owners rate the Vario Empire Art Nouveau Handwound highly for its unique dial artistry and attractive price point.
Similar watches
Matched to the watches above on size, movement, style and price, microbrands first. Open any one to dig in.
Also compared
Comparisons nearby in the catalog: alternatives to the watches above paired against the matchup.