In a world where wristwatches often evoke images of rugged explorers or elegant socialites, Christopher Ward, in collaboration with the enigmatic artist seconde/seconde/, has taken a decidedly different plunge. The C65 Desk Diver Limited Edition is a testament to the brand's willingness to embrace the unexpected, a timepiece that winks at the absurdities of the modern workplace while maintaining the impeccable craftsmanship and technical prowess that
Christopher Ward is known for.
Before we delve into the whimsical world of the Desk Diver, let's take a moment to appreciate the brand behind it. Christopher Ward, founded in 2004, has consistently challenged the status quo of the watch industry. They were among the first to embrace the online-only model, offering luxury timepieces directly to consumers, cutting out the middleman and delivering exceptional value. Their commitment to innovation is evident in their in-house movements, like the acclaimed Calibre SH21, a testament to their dedication to pushing the boundaries of horological engineering.
Courtesy of Christopher Ward
Romaric André, known by his pseudonym seconde/seconde/, is a creative force who has made a name for himself by playfully reimagining vintage watches with whimsical touches. His collaborations with watch brands, both big and small, have garnered a cult following among collectors who appreciate his unique blend of satire and horology. With the Desk Diver, seconde/seconde/ has turned his attention to the mundane reality of the office, injecting a dose of humor and irreverence into a timepiece that celebrates the everyday struggles and triumphs of the modern worker.
The C65 Desk Diver is not your typical dive watch. While it boasts the robust construction and water resistance of its aquatic brethren, its true purpose lies in navigating the treacherous waters of the office environment. The dial and bezel are adorned with playful reminders and tongue-in-cheek prompts, transforming the watch into a witty companion for the daily grind.
The watch face, a canvas for seconde/seconde/'s creativity, features a dopamine toxicity graph, a humorous warning against the perils of doom-scrolling. It reminds us that true fulfillment lies in human connection, not in the endless pursuit of digital distractions. The bezel, with its whimsical symbols, encourages wearers to embrace the lighter side of office life, from indulging in gossip to taking a well-deserved power nap.
Courtesy of Christopher Ward
The Desk Diver is based on the C65 Aquitaine, a classic dive watch known for its robust construction and timeless design. The 41mm stainless steel case, water-resistant to 200 meters, ensures that it can handle the occasional coffee spill or unexpected downpour. The Sellita SW200-1 automatic movement, a workhorse known for its reliability, keeps time with precision, ensuring that you're never late for that crucial meeting.
The dial, a masterpiece of playful design, features a mini Post-it note, a nod to the ubiquitous office tool that helps us keep track of our ever-growing to-do lists. The date window, on the first of the month, displays a coin emoji, a cheeky reminder of payday and the fleeting nature of financial security.
Let’s get one thing straight - the Christopher Ward C65 Desk Diver isn't just another pretty face in the watch world. It's a 41mm statement piece, crafted from 316L stainless steel, a material known for its durability and resistance to corrosion. It's the kind of watch that can handle the daily grind, whether you're navigating a sea of spreadsheets or braving the perils of the office coffee machine.
Courtesy of Christopher Ward
The watch's Light-catcher™ case isn't just a marketing gimmick. It's designed to sit comfortably on your wrist, even during those
Marathon conference calls. And with 200m of water resistance, you can rest assured that it can survive an accidental dunk in the water cooler.
The curved sapphire bezel, a signature feature of the Aquitaine line, is more than just a visual delight. It's a functional tool, adorned with symbols that offer a playful commentary on office life. From a knife representing "treachery" to a mug signifying "tea time," the bezel serves as a subtle reminder to navigate the workplace with a healthy dose of humor and self-awareness.
The dial, a playground for seconde/seconde/'s creativity, is a feast for the eyes. The Super-LumiNova® Grade X1 BL C1 hands and indexes ensure legibility even in the dimly lit corners of the office. The date window, with its cheeky coin emoji on the first of the month, adds a touch of whimsy to the otherwise utilitarian design.
Courtesy of Christopher Ward
But the true star of the show is the Sellita SW200-1 automatic movement, visible through the exhibition case back. This Swiss-made powerhouse boasts a 38-hour power reserve, ensuring that your watch keeps ticking even if you forget to wind it after a long weekend. The elaborate "Colimaçoné" finish on the movement and the twin-flag engraving on the rotor are a testament to Christopher Ward's commitment to craftsmanship, even in a watch that doesn't take itself too seriously.
The C65 Desk Diver isn't just a timepiece; it's an experience. Each watch comes with a Delugs yellow rubber strap, a vibrant alternative to the classic stainless steel bracelet. The custom box includes branded pencils, paper clips, Post-it notes, highlighters, and even board pins, transforming your workspace into a playful homage to the watch's design.
With only 500 pieces available, the C65 Desk Diver Limited Edition is a must-have for any watch enthusiast who appreciates a touch of humor and irreverence. It's a conversation starter, a statement piece that reflects your personality and your appreciation for the finer things in life, even if those things include navigating the absurdities of the modern office.
Courtesy of Christopher Ward
The C65 Desk Diver Limited Edition is available for purchase from September 26th, 2024 for $1395. It's an investment in a timepiece that will not only keep you on schedule but also bring a smile to your face every time you glance at your wrist.
The C65 Desk Diver is a testament to the power of collaboration. Christopher Ward's technical expertise and seconde/seconde/'s artistic vision have come together to create a watch that is both functional and fun. It's a timepiece that celebrates the everyday, reminding us that even the most mundane moments can be infused with a touch of whimsy and wonder.