The first month of 2026 has set a high bar for independent watchmaking. We are seeing a shift away from standard dive watches and toward more architectural cases, complex dial finishing, and smaller, vintage-inspired footprints.
Below are the three releases from January and February that are currently dominating the conversation on our app. We’ve broken down the specs and movements so you can decide if they deserve a slot in your watch box.
1. Baltic Prismic Stone (Permanent Collection)
After a limited run last year, Baltic has officially moved the Prismic Stone into their permanent collection as of early 2026. This is significant because it makes accessible stone dials (Lapis Lazuli, Pietersite, etc.) available without the "limited edition" anxiety.
The standout feature here isn't just the dial; it's the case construction. It utilizes a Grade 5 titanium mid-case with stainless steel lugs and bezel, allowing for complex finishing (grain, brushed, and polished surfaces) that catches light differently than a standard steel case.
Technical Specifications
- Case Diameter: 36mm
- Thickness: 9.2mm (7.4mm without glass)
- Lug-to-Lug: 44mm
- Movement: ETA Peseux 7001 (Manual Wind)
- Power Reserve: 42 Hours
- Crystal: Double-domed Sapphire
The Verdict: At 36mm with a Peseux 7001 manual wind movement, this is a true dress watch for the modern era. The Pietersite dial (pictured) offers a chaotic, storm-like texture that makes every unit unique.
View at Baltic Watches →2. Selten Series 00 "Jui Bauhinia"
Released on February 6, 2026, this collaboration between Selten and the Watch Ho & Co community is a masterclass in dial manufacturing. Selten is known for pushing the envelope on materials, and this "Jui Bauhinia" is no exception.
The dial is natural white Mother-of-Pearl that has been tinted (Purple or Pink) and then subjected to CNC Guilloché. Machining MOP without cracking it is notoriously difficult, resulting in a texture that looks like a blooming flower. The hands are heat-treated (not painted) to achieve their blue/purple hue.
Technical Specifications
- Case Diameter: 39mm
- Lug Width: 20mm
- Movement: Miyota 9039 (High-beat Automatic)
- Dial: CNC Guilloché Mother-of-Pearl
- Limitation: 200 Pieces per color
The Verdict: It runs on the reliable Miyota 9 series (the "go-to" for premium microbrands), but you are buying this for the dial work. It punches well above its weight class in terms of finishing.
View at Selten Watch Co →3. Anoma A1 (Jan '26 Batch)
The Anoma A1 has been the most polarizing watch in our community feeds this month. With units from the latest batch arriving in January 2026, we are finally seeing real-world feedback on this sculptural piece.
The case is a rounded, asymmetrical triangle that lacks traditional lugs. The strap bars are hidden underneath the case, allowing the watch to "float" on the wrist. It draws heavy inspiration from the Gilbert Albert era of Patek Philippe, but at a fraction of the cost.
Technical Specifications
- Dimensions: 39mm x 38mm
- Thickness: 9.45mm
- Movement: Sellita SW100 (Automatic)
- Case Finishing: Mirror Polished
- Crystal: Box-shaped Sapphire
The Verdict: It uses the smaller Sellita SW100 to fit that unique geometry. It's not an everyday tool watch, but as a design object, it is arguably the most interesting release of the quarter.
View at Anoma Watches →
