The world of watchmaking just got a little more exciting with Christopher Ward's latest release, the C63 Sealander True GMT. This flagship model is a testament to the brand's innovative spirit and its commitment to pushing the boundaries of in-house watchmaking.
The Rise of the True GMT
GMT complications have long been a favorite among watch enthusiasts, offering a practical and visually appealing way to track multiple time zones. However, not all GMT watches are created equal. The distinction between 'caller' GMTs and 'true' or 'traveller' GMTs is an important one. While the former provides a simple 24-hour hand adjustment, the latter offers an independently settable local hour hand, allowing for seamless time zone transitions without disrupting other settings. This added complexity is a challenge for smaller brands, as off-the-shelf movement options are limited.
Christopher Ward's In-House Approach
Christopher Ward has been on a roll with new releases, and their latest venture into the world of true GMT watches is a bold move. Unable to find a suitable off-the-shelf movement, the brand decided to take matters into their own hands, developing the CW-002 movement in-house. This decision showcases their expertise and determination to offer something unique to their customers.
The C63 Sealander True GMT: A Closer Look
The C63 Sealander True GMT is a stunning timepiece, featuring a newly profiled 40.5mm stainless steel Lightcatcher case. The case is a delight, with a glassbox-style domed sapphire crystal and a super-thin brushed steel bezel. The attention to detail is evident in the myriad of polished and brushed surfaces, ensuring a high-quality finish.
Water resistance is a key feature, with the C63 Sealander maintaining a 100-meter depth rating. The anti-reflective coating on the sapphire crystal adds functionality, and this attention to detail is carried over to the exhibition caseback, offering a glimpse of the intricate movement within.
The dial options are a study in contrast, with silver and orange accents, or black and turquoise details. Both variations offer a unique and detailed look, with an applied small seconds dial and a power-reserve indicator. The deeply textured surface and heavily chamfered positions of the sub-dials and hour markers enhance legibility, a crucial aspect for a travel watch.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the dial is the placement of the GMT hour markers inside the crystal, surrounding the outer edge. This design choice is a refreshing departure from the standard bi-color bezel, adding a touch of uniqueness to the overall aesthetic.
The Heart of the Matter: CW-002 Movement
The true star of the C63 Sealander True GMT is its in-house developed movement, the CW-002. This COSC-certified, rhodium-finished calibre has been in development since 2023 and features 16 all-new components, along with modifications to seven components from the CW-001 calibre. The movement boasts a circular Côtes de Genève finish, with cut-outs revealing the twin barrels, balance wheel, and train bridge. The twin barrels provide an impressive 5-day power reserve, while the tungsten rotor adds a touch of visual interest with its mix of sunray-polished and sandblasted surfaces.
Strap Options and Pricing
The C63 Sealander True GMT offers two strap options: a stunning stainless steel Bader 3-link bracelet with polished bevels, and two supple rubber straps color-matched to the dial accents, both featuring a deployant Bader buckle.
Pricing for this flagship model starts at £2,895GBP/US$3,995/€3,775EUR for the rubber strap version, and £2,995GBP/US$4,135/€3,905EUR for the Bader bracelet option.
Final Thoughts
The Christopher Ward C63 Sealander True GMT is a testament to the brand's ambition and craftsmanship. With its unique design, in-house movement, and attention to detail, it offers a compelling proposition for watch enthusiasts seeking a true GMT experience. This release solidifies Christopher Ward's position as a force to be reckoned with in the world of high-end, accessible watchmaking.
