One of the largest points of contention surrounding the original launch of the Christopher Ward C1 Moonphase last year was the clashing aesthetic styles of the sporty case and dress watch dial. Now though, a new edition has been released that downsizes the fairly substantial 40.5mm case down to a much more svelte 37mm. While it’s a relatively small change on paper, it does the C1 Moonphase 37mm a world of good.
Off the bat, 37mm in steel is a much more unisex size (both proportionally and in terms of reducing the weight a bit) and considering the jewel-like aventurine glass dial and elegant moonphase complication there is a huge amount of feminine appeal here. However, there’s more to it than simply being better suited to slimmer wrists.
Throughout 2024 one of the prevailing trends has been an increased interest from collectors in neo-vintage and retro watches. The types of watches that historically had sizes in the 36mm – 39mm ballpark rather than the more modern trend for 40mm – 43mm giants. By reducing the size of the C1 Moonphase 37mm, Christopher Ward is able to tap into that market to a greater degree, especially as at the same time stone and mineral dials, such as aventurine glass, are doing well too.
Beyond the reduced size, this is the C1 Moonphase as we already know it. The case still retains a somewhat sporty design with its steel construction and bold lines, but at a diminished size that sportiness is much less pronounced, making for an overall more cohesive design. Inside the case is the Sellita SW220-1 with JJ04 module, the same automatic calibre as used in its larger cousin. Increasing the 38-hour power reserve should definitely be on CW’s list for the next suite of improvements.
As the C1 Moonphase 37mm is mechanically identical to the 40.5mm edition, the price is also the same. Meaning it’s £1,950 on leather strap or £2,130 on Consort 5-link bracelet.
Price and Specs:
Model:
Christopher
Ward C1 Moonphase 37mm
Ref:
C01-37AMP2-S00B0-B1
Case:
37mm
diameter x 13.1mm thickness, stainless steel
Dial:
Midnight
blue aventurine
Water resistance:
30m
(3 bar)
Movement:
Sellita
calibre SW220-1 with JJ04 module, automatic, 26 jewels
Frequency:
28,800
vph (4 Hz)
Power reserve:
38h
Functions:
Hours,
minutes, seconds, moonphase
Strap:
Stainless
steel Consort bracelet or leather strap
Price:
£1,995
(leather strap), £2,130 (bracelet)
More details at Christopher Ward.
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