Fears Arnos Rectangular Watch Review

Vetnov · 2026-06-03T01:01:23Z

Explore the Fears Arnos, the brand s first rectangular watch since its revival. Vetnov shares ownership insights on this British-made timepiece.

Vetnov introduces the Fears Arnos, a significant release marking the brand's first rectangular model since its 2016 revival. This article explores the Arnos's design, comfort, and historical inspiration, offering a collector's firsthand account of owning a piece from a brand dedicated to re-establishing British watchmaking.

Fears was in business in Bristol, England from 1846-1976 (quartz crisis?). The brand was renewed in 2016 by a relative of the original company founders. They have kept the business in its original city, and I believe is one of the companies involved in the movement to revive British watchmaking among others.

Unlike their cushion shaped models, the Arnos is the first rectangular model in a line I think they plan on expanding, and is based on the model pictured below which is from around 1930. You can see the new model is not an exact copy of the original but similar in design and style.

The new model is 20x40mm including lugs. I don’t know how thick it is but I’m guessing about 10mm. The case back is curved to match the crystal. It is a small watch but fits my wrist nicely. It’s very comfortable, and comes with 2 straps. The one I am wearing is a blue rubber Delugs strap with a double folding clasp that was made specifically for the watch.

Original model.

New model

As the only shaped case in my collection right now I’m quite happy with it.

Key Points from the Discussion

The Fears Arnos, despite its smaller center dial, maintains strong wrist presence due to its clean, visually striking design and lack of distractions, making it a 'right' size for many wrists.
The 'Clous de Paris' pattern surrounding the central dial is crucial to the Arnos's aesthetic, preventing the upper and lower dial sections from appearing empty and contributing to its overall appeal.
The Arnos is considered some of the best work by Lee Yuen Rapati, Fears' head designer, highlighting the design's quality and the brand's commitment to aesthetic excellence.
The author expressed interest in Fears' jump hour models, indicating a broader appreciation for the brand's diverse offerings beyond the Arnos.

The Discussion

AuHavrePro

Jun 3, 2026

Good looking watch! 🙂👍

quattro

Jun 3, 2026

It looks very nice.

It’s a watch I’ve had an eye on but didn’t yet get to see it in person. I was concerned that the round center part of the dial might look a little small but I imagine that the Clous de Paris pattern surrounding it is very nice in real life and that the upper and lower parts of the dial don’t feel empty. Congratulations ! Best, Emmanuel

gadalex

Jun 3, 2026

It really is a very handsome piece in the metal.

I saw a few during testing at a 'secret' location in London and Lee Yuen Rapati (their head designer and One Hour Watch on Instagram) is a good friend. I think this is possibly some of his best work. Regards, Baruch

quattro

Jun 3, 2026

Thanks a lot for your feedback, Baruch!

I hope I’ll be able to see it in person in the not too distant future. Best, Emmanuel

Vetnov

Jun 3, 2026

Thanks for your input👍

Jay (Eire)

Jun 3, 2026

Emmanuel, seeing in person for me confirmed the overall design is very strong.

Is the actual center dial on the smaller side, yes it is. Could it be a little too small for older eyes (like mine), maybe. But I think the fact that there is no other distractions on the dial will probably counter those concerns. And the watch is a really nice size. It has wrist presence despite this, but because of the clean and visually strong dial. This is the watch on my wrist at last weekend’s GTG. It looks a little bigger on my wrist given that my wrist is angled away from the camera.

Key Points from the Discussion

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