Win it: The Christopher Ward C11 Makaira Pro 500

In Person: Christopher Ward C11 Makaira Pro – $685.00

Christopher Ward watches are a bit 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.  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.”  Here’s their case as to why they can do what they do. 

This thing is a beast.  Now wait, it’s not overly large in size (42mm diameter), but when it comes to the feel, angles, and heft (okay, and price too), it might as well be cut from marble.  Yes it’s a distinctive style that not everyone likes, but for those that do like the laser-cut from an instrument panel look, it’ll make you whistle.

This is the newest model of dive watch from the brand, and it certainly walks the walk.  500m water resistance rating and you can feel the quality of the substantial build in your hands.  Movement is a Swiss Made self-winding by Sellita.  The angled corners on the brushed stainless case give it that deep sea look, while the textured crowns are rock solid and perfectly placed.  The upper crown at 2 o’clock controls the inner bezel, which definitively clicks for each position moved. Large, squat, luminous numbers and equally beefy hands look more than at home under the sapphire crystal.  Even the rubber strap looks and feels better than most, with its cut & tiered deck and equally hefty buckle.

Yeah, it sounds like gushing, but this thing deserves it.  Or put another way, this watch works awfully hard to get you to shell out SEVEN HUNDRED dollars.  Yes, there’s something to be said for variety, but more than a few of us would gladly trade in our entire collection of casual watches, for the right to have this new C11 be our sole option when we’re not dressed up.  Or, our only option if the world comes to an end tomorrow.

Want to win this C11? Go here to get entered. One entry per person. Deadline for entry is 11:59 pm ET on 12/21/12.

UPDATE:  Congrats to Chris H. who won the C11 Makaira Pro!