Christopher Ward C65 Super Compressor Elite

Christopher Ward, established in 2004, has consistently pushed boundaries, challenging industry norms, and carving a unique niche for itself. With a commitment to craftsmanship, quality, and affordability, Christopher Ward has captured the hearts of watch enthusiasts worldwide.

Their latest offering, the C65 Super Compressor Elite, is a testament to their unwavering pursuit of excellence. This timepiece not only pays homage to the rich history of dive watches but also showcases the brand's ability to reimagine classic designs with a contemporary twist.



Christopher Ward's journey began with a bold vision: to create exceptional mechanical watches that were accessible to a wider audience. By eschewing the traditional retail model and embracing a direct-to-consumer approach, the brand was able to offer high-quality Swiss-made timepieces at a fraction of the cost of their competitors.

This disruptive strategy resonated with watch enthusiasts, who were drawn to Christopher Ward's commitment to transparency, innovation, and value. The brand quickly gained a loyal following, and its reputation for producing exceptional timepieces continued to grow.

Over the years, Christopher Ward has continued to innovate, developing in-house movements, experimenting with new materials, and pushing the boundaries of design. Their dedication to craftsmanship and attention to detail is evident in every watch they produce, from the intricate movements to the meticulously finished cases.

One of Christopher Ward's most beloved collections is the C65 line, a series of dive watches that pay homage to the golden era of underwater exploration. Inspired by the iconic dive watches of the 1960s and 70s, the C65 collection combines vintage aesthetics with modern technology, resulting in timepieces that are both stylish and functional.

The C65 watches are known for their distinctive cushion-shaped cases, bold dials, and robust construction. They are powered by reliable automatic movements and are water-resistant to depths of up to 200 meters, making them suitable for both everyday wear and underwater adventures.

The collection has garnered a loyal following among watch enthusiasts, who appreciate its blend of classic design, modern functionality, and exceptional value. The C65 has become a symbol of Christopher Ward's commitment to heritage and innovation, and it continues to be one of their most popular lines.



The latest addition to the C65 collection, the Super Compressor Elite, is a true testament to Christopher Ward's dedication to pushing the boundaries of watchmaking. This timepiece not only boasts a striking design but also features a revolutionary super compressor mechanism that enhances its water resistance as the wearer descends deeper into the depths.

The Super Compressor Elite is a modern reinterpretation of a classic design, drawing inspiration from the iconic dive watches of the mid-20th century. Its 41mm cushion-shaped case is crafted from marine-grade stainless steel and features a brushed and polished finish that exudes a sense of refined ruggedness. The case is topped with a domed sapphire crystal that adds a touch of vintage charm while ensuring optimal clarity and durability.

One of the most striking features of the Super Compressor Elite is its bold and vibrant dial. The dial is adorned with a decompression scale, a tool used by divers to calculate decompression stops during their ascent. The scale is rendered in a captivating color palette of orange, blue, and white, creating a visually arresting display that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

The watch is available with three strap options, each designed to complement its unique character. The light blue Aquaflex rubber strap offers a sporty and casual aesthetic, while the bi-color Tropic rubber strap adds a touch of vintage flair. For those who prefer a more refined look, the Bader bracelet, crafted from marine-grade stainless steel, provides a sophisticated and elegant option.

At the heart of the C65 Super Compressor Elite beats a chronometer-grade Sellita SW300-1 automatic movement. This powerhouse of precision has been meticulously tested by the Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres (COSC), the official Swiss chronometer testing institute, and has met their stringent standards for accuracy and reliability. With a power reserve of 56 hours and a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour, this movement ensures that the watch keeps impeccable time, even under the most demanding conditions.



But the SW300-1 is more than just a timekeeping workhorse. It is a testament to Christopher Ward's commitment to quality and performance. By opting for a chronometer-grade movement, the brand has ensured that the Super Compressor Elite delivers unparalleled accuracy, making it a reliable companion for both everyday wear and underwater adventures.

One of the most remarkable features of the C65 Super Compressor Elite is its namesake mechanism. This ingenious system, invented in the mid-1950s, allows the watch to become more water-resistant as the wearer descends deeper into the water.

The mechanism works by utilizing a thin compression spring located around the perimeter of the case. As the diver descends, the increasing water pressure compresses the spring, pushing the caseback tighter against the O-ring gasket and enhancing the watch's water resistance. This innovative system ensures that the Super Compressor Elite can withstand the immense pressures of the deep, making it a true diving companion.

The compression spring itself is a marvel of engineering. At just 300 microns wide, it is thinner than a human hair yet strong enough to withstand the forces of the deep. This delicate yet robust component is visible through the watch's transparent caseback, allowing the wearer to appreciate the intricate mechanics at play.

The C65 Super Compressor Elite is not just a watch; it's a tool designed to aid divers in their underwater explorations. One of its most distinctive features is the decompression scale, a specialized dial that helps divers calculate decompression stops during their ascent.



The scale is a complex yet intuitive tool that takes into account the depth and duration of a dive to determine the necessary decompression stops. By following the scale, divers can safely ascend from the depths, minimizing the risk of decompression sickness.

The decompression scale on the Super Compressor Elite is rendered in a vibrant color palette of orange, blue, and white, making it easy to read even in low-light conditions. This functional yet aesthetically pleasing feature is a testament to Christopher Ward's attention to detail and commitment to creating watches that are both beautiful and practical.

While the technical specifications of the C65 Super Compressor Elite are undoubtedly impressive, it is the finer details that truly set this watch apart. The 41mm case is the perfect size for most wrists, striking a balance between comfort and presence. The brushed and polished finishes on the case create a captivating interplay of light and shadow, while the domed sapphire crystal adds a touch of vintage charm.

The dial is a masterpiece of design, with its bold colors and intricate details. The decompression scale is not only functional but also visually striking, adding a touch of personality to the watch. The hands and markers are filled with Super-LumiNova, ensuring optimal legibility even in the darkest depths.

The C65 Super Compressor Elite is available with three strap options: a light blue Aquaflex rubber strap, a bi-color Tropic rubber strap, and a Bader bracelet crafted from marine-grade stainless steel. Each strap option offers a unique aesthetic, allowing the wearer to personalize their watch to suit their individual style.

The Christopher Ward C65 Super Compressor Elite is more than just a watch; it is a testament to the brand's unwavering commitment to innovation, craftsmanship, and quality. With its chronometer-grade movement, innovative super compressor mechanism, and distinctive decompression scale, this timepiece is a true testament to the brand's dedication to pushing the boundaries of horological innovation.



Priced at $1,675 for the Tropic Rubber strap model, $1,690 for the Aquaflex Rubber strap model, and $1,825 for the Bader Bracelet model, the Super Compressor Elite offers exceptional value for a watch of this caliber. It is a timepiece that will appeal to both seasoned watch collectors and those who are just beginning their horological journey.

Whether you are a seasoned diver or simply appreciate the beauty of a well-crafted timepiece, the C65 Super Compressor Elite is sure to leave a lasting impression. It is a watch that embodies the spirit of adventure, the pursuit of excellence, and the timeless allure of the deep.