Christopher Ward is a British watch company founded in 2004 by three friends, Christopher Ward, Mike France, and Peter Ellis. They started the company with a rebellious spirit, aiming to shake up the traditional Swiss watch industry by offering high-quality, precision timepieces at a fair price. Their innovative approach resonated with watch enthusiasts who were tired of the inflated prices associated with luxury brands.
One of the ways
Christopher Ward challenged the status quo was by becoming the world's first online-only watch retailer. This decision allowed them to cut out the middleman and pass the savings on to the customer. Furthermore, they focused on building a relationship with their customers through exceptional service and transparency. 16 years later, the brand continues to thrive with a loyal following and a reputation for creating high-performance watches with a distinctive British flair.
Courtesy of Christopher Ward
The Christopher Ward Twelve series was introduced in 2019 as a sophisticated and sporty timepiece designed for everyday wear. The inspiration for the name came from the twelve indices on the watch dial, each meticulously crafted to ensure readability and functionality. The first iteration of the Twelve featured a classic, three-hand automatic movement with a closed caseback. Since its release, the Twelve has become a staple in the Christopher Ward collection, evolving into a series that includes GMT and chronograph complications.
The Twelve has garnered a reputation for its exceptional quality and value proposition. It is a testament to Christopher Ward's commitment to in-house innovation and their ability to produce high-end watches without the typical luxury markups.
The Twelve X (Ti) is the latest addition to the Twelve series and represents a significant leap forward in terms of design and technical complexity. This skeletonized version of the Twelve showcases the intricate inner workings of the Swiss-made Calibre SH21 movement. Through the use of domed sapphire crystals on both the front and back of the watch, wearers can marvel at the craftsmanship of the movement, from the twin barrels that provide the impressive 120-hour power reserve to the intricate escapement.
Courtesy of Christopher Ward
The Twelve X (Ti) boasts a striking 41mm titanium case. The use of two grades of titanium is a notable design detail. The Grade 5 titanium on the bezel allows for a high-polish finish that beautifully contrasts with the satin-brushed finish of the Grade 2 titanium case. This combination of finishes creates a truly unique and sophisticated aesthetic.
The beating heart of the Twelve X (Ti) is the in-house manufactured Calibre SH21 automatic movement. This movement, first introduced in 2014, marked a significant milestone for Christopher Ward, showcasing their commitment to pushing the boundaries of watchmaking. The Calibre SH21 is a COSC-certified chronometer, meaning it has undergone rigorous testing to ensure exceptional accuracy and timekeeping performance. It boasts a healthy 120-hour power reserve, ensuring the watch continues to run for over five days between windings.
The Twelve X (Ti) takes the Calibre SH21 to a whole new level by showcasing it in a skeletonized form. This means that the dial has been partially removed to reveal the intricate mechanics of the movement in all their glory. Watch aficionados will appreciate the opportunity to admire the intricate gears, springs, and escapement that orchestrate the smooth running of the watch. The skeletonized design also offers a glimpse of the craftsmanship behind the Calibre SH21. The movement is meticulously finished with a combination of polished chamfers, Geneva stripes, and blued screws, creating a visually captivating display of watchmaking artistry.
Courtesy of Christopher Ward
The Twelve X (Ti) is housed in a 41mm titanium case. The use of titanium is a strategic choice, offering several advantages over traditional stainless steel. Titanium is incredibly strong and lightweight, making it a comfortable choice for everyday wear. It's also naturally hypoallergenic, which makes it an ideal option for those with sensitive skin.
The Twelve X (Ti) incorporates two grades of titanium to achieve a unique and sophisticated aesthetic. The majority of the case is crafted from Grade 2 titanium, which is known for its excellent strength and durability. The bezel, however, is constructed from Grade 5 titanium. This grade of titanium is significantly harder than Grade 2, allowing for a high-polish finish that creates a dazzling contrast with the satin-brushed finish of the case. This subtle play of textures and finishes elevates the Twelve X (Ti) from a tool watch to a statement piece.
One of the most captivating features of the Twelve X (Ti) is the use of domed sapphire crystals on both the front and back of the watch. Sapphire crystal is renowned for its exceptional clarity and scratch resistance, ensuring a clear view of the inner workings of the watch. The domed shape of the crystals adds a touch of vintage charm to the Twelve X (Ti) and creates a captivating magnifying effect when looking at the watch from different angles.
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While the skeletonized design offers a captivating view of the movementin its natural state, the Twelve X (Ti) doesn't compromise on legibility. The watch hands and hour markers are generously coated with Super-LumiNova® X1 BL C1, a proprietary luminous material that Christopher Ward claims to be brighter and longer-lasting than traditional lume. This ensures that the time remains readable even in low-light conditions. The hands themselves are beautifully sculpted and tapered, adding a touch of elegance to the overall design.
The Twelve X (Ti) is secured to the wrist with a bracelet crafted from Grade 2 titanium. The bracelet features a tapered design, meaning it narrows towards the clasp, which provides a comfortable and secure fit. The links are solid, ensuring a feeling of quality andheft on the wrist. The clasp itself is a butterfly clasp with a micro-adjustment mechanism. This innovative feature allows the wearer to fine-tune the fit of the bracelet in small increments, ensuring a perfect fit throughout the day.
The bracelet is finished with a satin brush that complements the finish of the case. The clasp features the Christopher Ward logo engraved discreetly, adding a touch of brand recognition without being ostentatious. Overall, the bracelet of the Twelve X (Ti) is a perfect match for the watch's sporty and sophisticated personality.
The Christopher Ward Twelve X (Ti) is a remarkable timepiece that represents the culmination of two decades of innovation and watchmaking expertise. The skeletonized Calibre SH21 movement offers a captivating glimpse into the inner workings of the watch, while the use of high-quality materials and thoughtful design choices ensure exceptional performance and durability. The Twelve X (Ti) is not just a timepiece; it's a conversation starter, a piece of mechanical art that is sure to turn heads and spark discussions about watchmaking and design.
Courtesy of Christopher Ward
While the Twelve X (Ti) boasts impressive technical specifications and a captivating design, it's important to remember that it's also a watch designed to be worn and enjoyed every day. The use of titanium ensures a lightweight and comfortable fit, while the 100-meter water resistance rating means it can withstand splashes, sweat, and even a dip in the pool. Whether you're dressing up for a night out or hitting the gym, the Twelve X (Ti) can be your reliable and stylish companion.
The Christopher Ward Twelve X (Ti) is a testament to the brand's commitment to challenging the status quo and offering exceptional value. It's a watch that is sure to appeal to discerning watch collectors who appreciate innovation, quality, and a touch of British flair.