SILCA moves into cycle computer space with OMATA acquisition

SILCA has acquired OMATA, the world’s first analogue cycling computer with internal GPS. Along with the acquisition, SILCA will release an exclusive, limited quantity of the iconic OMATA devices.

Reportedly the world’s first mechatronic cycling computer (a digital unit with analogue movement), OMATA presents a refined yet restrained design without sacrificing the performance expected of a modern digital device. Built as an intentional alternative to screen-fatiguing, noisy digital electronics, OMATA captures data silently in the background while displaying real-time metrics through a mechanical dial.

At SILCA, we are obsessed with the intersection of beauty, precision, and performance,” said Josh Poertner, CEO of SILCA. “OMATA  a masterpiece of functional art. We acquired Omata because we believed it was a product that should continue to exist in this world. Sadly, it relies on a finite supply of legacy Seiko components; so, each unit carries the weight of rarity. By bringing hand-assembly to our Indianapolis facility, we are ensuring each of these stunning instruments is tested for lasting performance.”

Encased in aluminium housing, OMATA features an intuitive rotating bezel for switching modes, a USB-C charging, improved weather resistance and integrated ANT+ connectivity. With its latest firmware update, available to Apple iOS users, OMATA can pair with external sensors to record ride analytics such as power and heart rate, keeping the interface distraction-free while capturing essential information in the background.

SILCA has redesigned OMATA’s internal circuit board, battery system, and outer housing around the legacy analogue “movements” to modernise the hardware. Production and final assembly were moved to the brand’s Indianapolis facility, making it one of the only cycling computers assembled in the United States. The SILCA team also redesigned the instrument’s weather sealing, integrating a custom triple-barrier lip seal for the rotating bezel and a Gore-Tex membrane over the barometric pressure sensor for improved moisture resistance, while also adding a versatile square mounting cleat compatible with standard Garmin or Wahoo mounts, allowing riders to swap between computers and bikes easily.

Because SILCA’s production run is limited and production is not quick, SILCA will be releasing OMATA in small batches until sold out. Consequently, this limited production model means the units are only available in the US. But all is not lost – the firm welcomes enquiries from internationals.