Christopher Ward is a British watch company founded in 2006 by Mike France, Peter Ellis and Chris Ward. The company is known for its direct-to-consumer sales model and its use of high-quality materials and movements at competitive prices. The company's watches are designed in the UK and assembled in Switzerland.
Christopher Ward's Retro collection draws inspiration from vintage field watches, known for their durability, legibility, and simple designs. The C65 Dune GMT is the latest addition to the collection, and it takes the classic field watch formula and adds a modern twist with the inclusion of a GMT complication.
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The C65 Dune GMT is a 38mm stainless steel watch with a White Sand dial and a Khaki Green interior bezel. The watch has a box-sapphire crystal, which gives it a vintage look and a slight dome shape. The crystal is also slightly thicker than modern sapphire crystals, which adds to the watch's retro aesthetic.
The dial is simple and legible, with large, applied hour markers and a date window at 6 o'clock. The hands are sword-shaped and are filled with Super-LumiNova® BL Grade X1 lume, which makes them easy to read in low-light conditions. The GMT hand is a lollipop-shaped hand that is painted orange for easy differentiation from the other hands.
The C65 Dune GMT is powered by the Sellita SW330-2 movement, which is a Swiss-made automatic movement with a 56-hour power reserve. The movement is visible through the exhibition case back, which is a nice touch for watch enthusiasts who appreciate good craftsmanship.
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The watch comes with a variety of strap options, including a camel canvas webbing strap, a brown leather strap, and a stainless steel bracelet. The straps are all easy to change thanks to the watch's quick-release system.
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Christopher Ward C65 Dune GMT is a versatile watch that can be dressed up or down. It is perfect for everyday wear, but it is also tough enough to handle the rigors of outdoor adventures. The watch's water resistance of 150 meters means that it can withstand being submerged in water up to 150 meters deep.
The C65 Dune GMT is a great option for anyone who is looking for a stylish and functional watch that is built to last. It is a watch that is sure to appeal to fans of vintage watches as well as those who are looking for a modern take on the classic field watch style.
Powering the C65 Dune GMT is the Sellita SW330-2 automatic movement. This Swiss-made workhorse is known for its reliability and accuracy. Boasting a 56-hour power reserve, you can take the watch off for a couple of days without fear of it stopping. The movement is also visible through the watch's exhibition case back, where you can admire the elaboré ‘Colimaçoné’ (snailing) finish – a touch of refined craftsmanship hidden within the watch's robust exterior.
Let's take a closer look at that White Sand dial. It's instantly striking. The subtle texture of the sunray finish provides depth and subtle shimmer, changing its appearance depending on the light. The contrasting Khaki Green of the interior bezel adds a touch of ruggedness to the dial.
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The applied markers are generously filled with Super-LumiNova BL Grade X1 "Old Radium" lume, a nod to the warmth and character of vintage timepieces. This attention to detail is what sets Christopher Ward apart - they don't just slap on lume, they carefully consider how it interacts with the overall design.
The iconic "twin flags" logo at 12 o'clock signifies Christopher Ward's commitment to refined, carefully thought-out design. The balance in the layout, the font choice, and even the subtle detail of the date window at 6 o'clock – it all contributes to a dial that's both handsome and practical.
The 38mm stainless steel case exemplifies Christopher Ward's 'Light-catcher' design language. Its smooth, sculpted lines, brushed surfaces, and polished bevels capture and play with light in a beautiful and understated way. It's a case design that exudes quality without resorting to being brash or gaudy.
The chamfered fixed bezel offers a bit of visual interest, making the case design feel more dynamic. It's not an overly showy watch, but these little details reward those who take a deeper look at the craftsmanship.
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The most defining visual feature of the C65 Dune GMT is the box sapphire crystal. This elevated dome is pure vintage charm, reminiscent of watches from the 1960s and '70s. The profile view reveals that characteristic distortion at the edges, adding a sense of warmth and character that modern, flat sapphire crystals often lack.
While not as scratch-resistant as modern, flat sapphire crystals, the box sapphire is thick enough to withstand reasonable everyday wear. It is, after all, a tool watch at its core, and this crystal choice reinforces the tool-like, utilitarian charm of the overall design.
The C65 Dune GMT is versatile largely in part due to its strap options. The quick-release system lets you change its look within seconds. Opt for the supplied camel canvas webbing strap for a field-ready, rugged vibe. Switch to a brown leather strap for a dressier, refined aesthetic. Or, go for the stainless steel bracelet for a more business-ready appearance.
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The flexibility the C65 Dune GMT offers is truly one of its biggest strengths. No matter your style or the occasion, there's a strap combination that will perfectly suit your needs.
The Christopher Ward C65 Dune GMT is an incredibly well-rounded watch. It's an ideal choice if you're looking for:
Vintage Charm with Modern Reliability: The nods to vintage design, like the box crystal, warm lume, and overall aesthetic are combined with a reliable Swiss movement and sturdy construction.
Understated Quality: The "Light-catcher" case, attention to dial details, and movement finishing showcase quality craftsmanship without being excessive in its presentation.
Versatility: With its size, strap options, and a blend of rugged and refined design elements, it can fit seamlessly into various wardrobes and occasions.
If you appreciate a watch that balances form with function, offers an interesting take on a classic design, and punches well above its price point, the C65 Dune GMT is definitely worth your serious consideration.