Christopher Ward Twelve X Steel Special Edition

A Masterpiece of Craftsmanship

Words by: Hourstriker Staff
November 22, 2024
Christopher Ward's dedication to crafting exceptional timepieces is evident in their latest creation, the Twelve X Steel Special Edition. This remarkable watch is not merely a timekeeping device; it's a testament to Christopher Ward's unwavering commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and the pursuit of horological excellence.



The story of Christopher Ward began in 2004 when three friends, Mike France, Peter Ellis, and Chris Ward, embarked on a journey to redefine the landscape of premium watchmaking. They sought to create a brand that offered exceptional value and quality without the exorbitant markups often associated with luxury watches. Their vision was clear: to craft timepieces that were accessible to a wider audience while maintaining the highest standards of craftsmanship and design.

Courtesy of Christopher Ward


Over the years, Christopher Ward has consistently delivered on its promise, introducing a range of innovative and stylish watches that have captivated watch enthusiasts worldwide. Their commitment to in-house movements, exemplified by the Calibre SH21, has further solidified their position as a leader in the industry.



The Twelve X Steel Special Edition represents a culmination of Christopher Ward's expertise and passion for watchmaking. It's a timepiece that embodies the brand's dedication to innovation, precision, and aesthetic refinement. This special edition watch is not just a celebration of the 10th anniversary of the Calibre SH21 movement; it's a testament to Christopher Ward's unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of horological design and engineering.



The journey to the Twelve X Steel Special Edition began with the launch of the Twelve collection in 2023, a series of watches that showcased Christopher Ward's innovative approach to open-worked design. The Twelve X, introduced in 2024, took this concept further, featuring an even more intricate and visually captivating skeletonized movement.

Courtesy of Christopher Ward


The Twelve X Steel Special Edition builds upon the success of its predecessors, offering a unique blend of technical prowess and aesthetic refinement. It's a watch that demands attention, with its meticulously crafted stainless steel case and bracelet, the vibrant blue accents on the dial, and the mesmerizing display of the hand-finished Calibre SH21 movement.



One of the most striking features of the Twelve X Steel Special Edition is its skeletonized dial, which provides an unobstructed view of the intricate mechanics within. The Calibre SH21, Christopher Ward's in-house movement, is a marvel of engineering, boasting a remarkable 120-hour power reserve and chronometer-certified accuracy. In this special edition, the movement has been further enhanced with exquisite hand finishing, adding a touch of artistry to its technical brilliance.



The dial's design is a study in contrasts, with the industrial aesthetic of the skeletonized movement juxtaposed against the refined elegance of the blue accents. The hands and minute track are anodized in a vibrant electric blue, adding a pop of color that complements the cool tones of the stainless steel case. The dial ring features a subtle blue hue, further enhancing the watch's visual appeal.

Courtesy of Christopher Ward


The case of the Twelve X Steel Special Edition is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, with its intricate blend of polished, brushed, and sandblasted finishes. The 41mm case size strikes a perfect balance between presence and wearability, making it suitable for a wide range of wrist sizes. The watch's slim profile, measuring just 12.3mm in height, ensures a comfortable fit on the wrist.



The stainless steel bracelet is a testament to Christopher Ward's attention to detail. The links are meticulously crafted, with a combination of brushed and polished finishes that complement the case's design. The bracelet's solid construction and secure clasp ensure a comfortable and reliable fit.



At first glance, the Twelve X Steel Special Edition commands attention with its bold and architectural design. The 41mm stainless steel case is a perfect canvas for the intricate skeletonized dial, allowing the inner workings of the Calibre SH21 to take center stage. The case's blend of polished, brushed, and sandblasted finishes adds depth and complexity, creating a dynamic interplay of light and shadow.

Courtesy of Christopher Ward


The dial is a testament to Christopher Ward's design philosophy, where form follows function. The skeletonized design not only provides an unobstructed view of the movement but also contributes to the watch's lightweight construction. The blue accents on the hands, minute track, and dial ring provide a striking contrast to the stainless steel, adding a touch of vibrancy to the overall aesthetic.



The Calibre SH21, Christopher Ward's in-house movement, is the heart and soul of the Twelve X Steel Special Edition. This COSC-certified movement boasts an impressive 120-hour power reserve, ensuring accurate timekeeping even after days of inactivity. The movement's intricate construction, with its 198 individual components, is a testament to Christopher Ward's dedication to horological excellence.



In this special edition, the Calibre SH21 has been further enhanced with exquisite hand finishing. The train bridge, automatic bridge, hour bridge, and balance bridge have been meticulously polished by hand, adding a touch of artistry to the movement's technical brilliance. This attention to detail is a hallmark of Christopher Ward's commitment to quality, ensuring that every aspect of the watch is crafted to the highest standards.



The watch's robust construction ensures that it can withstand the rigors of daily wear. The stainless steel case and bracelet are built to last, while the 10 ATM water resistance provides peace of mind in various environments. Whether you're wearing it to the office or on an outdoor adventure, the Twelve X Steel Special Edition is a reliable companion that will keep you on time and in style.

Courtesy of Christopher Ward


One of the most remarkable aspects of the Twelve X Steel Special Edition is its affordability. Despite its intricate design, hand-finished movement, and limited production run, the watch is priced competitively within the luxury watch market. This commitment to value is a core principle of Christopher Ward, ensuring that exceptional timepieces are accessible to a wider audience.



The Twelve X Steel Special Edition is available in two configurations: on a stainless steel bracelet for $4,725 or on a rubber strap for $4,495. Both options offer exceptional comfort and style, allowing you to tailor the watch to your personal preferences.
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