In Person: Christopher Ward C9 Harrison Automatic – $535.00
A Christopher Ward timepiece is sort of like the SuitSupply of the watch world. On the very high end of what most would consider “affordable”, but superb quality for the price point when compared to the luxury competition. That, and like SuitSupply, these things are getting real popular, real fast here in the states.
Designed in England and made in Switzerland with Swiss movements, the brand was launched in 2004 with the goal of making “the cheapest most expensive watches in the world.” And they make a pretty convincing case as to why they can do what they’re doing. Their models range from busier chronographs to subtle pieces like the C9 Harrison.
This model is named after John Harrison, the man who created the first timepiece capable of staying accurate on a ship, as well as a guy getting lots of play lately on this here website. This matte white dial w/ gold indexes version just got released. Instead of the expected gold case, you get silver stainless steel instead. That gives those of us with an aversion to gold watches the opportunity to dip a wrist in the Au-tone pond. If you’re willing to spend $500 on a watch.
The dial is dead simple with lots of white space, which is similar to John Harrison’s H4. But all that white helps the blue second hand really stand out. The 43mm case doesn’t overwhelm an average sized wrist, but those with small wrists might get swallowed up. Some might think that there’s a lot of emptiness under that sapphire crystal. Others are going to love the lack of sub-dials and unnecessary etchings.
The exhibition caseback shows off the 38 hour power reserve automatic Swiss movement. And not that you can’t feel how well it’s built as soon as you lift it out of the incredibly nice presentation case, but each Christopher Ward watch comes with a 5-year movement guarantee. Also, their return window is a generous 60 days. Plenty of time to decide on whether or not it looks good on your wrist.
Available with a black or brown band (which for some reason those brown leather bands look a little orange on their website) as well as silver or black dial options.
Here’s how to win the C9 seen here: Send your first and last name in an email to contests@dappered.com with the subject: Harrison. One entry per person. Deadline for entry is 11:59 pm ET on 10/10/12.
UPDATE: Congratulations to Chris Bennet who won the drawing for the Christopher Ward C9 Harrison! Thanks to all who entered, as well as Christopher Ward for providing the new C9 for the review/giveaway.
