Introducing the Christopher Ward C-12 Loco: A Fresh Leap Forward with the New CW-003 Movement
Since its founding in 2004, Christopher Ward has steadily evolved from an ambitious newcomer into a formidable force in watchmaking. Through their commitment to transparent and accessible pricing, coupled with stylish, thoughtfully designed timepieces, they've consistently appealed to both seasoned collectors and newcomers alike. Now, nearly two decades later, Christopher Ward further cements its horological credibility with the introduction of the C12 Loco, powered by their impressive second in-house calibre, the CW-003. This launch represents more than just another watch. It signals the brand’s arrival into the upper echelons of serious watchmaking, blending style and substance in their most ambitious release to date.
The Basics
Brand: Christopher Ward
Model: C12 Loco
Case: Finely executed three-piece case measuring 41mm, featuring brushed and polished finishes and distinctly angled lugs
Crystal: Sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating
Movement: Manual-winding CW-003 calibre
Water Resistance: 30m (3ATM)
Strap Options: Stainless steel bracelet or colored rubber strap with deployant clasp
Price:
GBP 3,795 / USD 4,595 (rubber strap)
GBP 3,995 / USD 4,825 (steel bracelet) Availability: Regular production
The Juice
The new Christopher Ward C12 Loco shows that the brand isn’t holding back with innovation. The addition of a second in-house movement showcases the brand’s dedication to deepening their presence in the realm of high-end horology. One look at the C12 Loco’s intricate and partially openworked dial is enough to confirm this ambition. Breaking from tradition, the brand opts for a specially developed free-sprung balance wheel paired with a custom hairspring. This design decision isn't merely technical. It it enhances the C12 Loco’s visual appeal much in the way the Bel Canto did before it. The open-balance architecture is prominantly displayed, reminding me of much higher priced watches like an MB&F.
One of the best parts of the C12 Loco is how well balanced the dial is. It is partially openworked, but not in a way where it becomes distracting. The time subdial also sits above the skeletonize portion of the dial. This allows for great legibility without sacrificing the “cool factor.” To me the watch is a blend of the best parts of the Twelve and the Bel Canto. While the case architecture is very much akin to The Twelve, the openworked dial is more like that of the Bel Canto. Christopher Ward knows what its customers want, and seems to always deliver. And they have definitely delivered once again with C12 Loco. Haute horology design meets accessible pricing in a way that Christopher Ward definitely knows how to deliver.
Measuring 41mm in diameter and a 13.7mm thick (but 9.75mm without the box crystal) , the C12 Loco is impressively slim and incredibly wearable, making it great for daily wear. If you own or have tried on The Twelve, the C12 Loco will have a familiar fit and feel. 41mm seems to be that sweet spot for modern sport watches, and the fact that Christopher Ward managed to keep the watch under fairly thin is very impressive.
And in the release, Christopher Ward is giving you some options. The C12 Loco is available in four dial variants: Ursa (black), Alabaster (white), Pasadena (blue), and Frisco (orange). Each dial option pairs well with either an integrated steel bracelet or matching rubber straps.
Final Thoughts
If you are one of the growing number of collectors who have a Christopher Ward in their collection, you will likely be a big fan of the C12 Loco. Even more so, if you are a fan of The Twelve or Bel Canto. It is clear with the C12 Loco (and the Bel Canto before it), that Christopher Ward is determined to make a name for itself in the more avant-garde, high horology space. But, the brand intends to do that with reasonably priced designs and complications, something I greatly appreciate. The C12 Loco is an impressive blend of a brand-new in-house movement, open architecture, and a six-day power reserve. All of this wrapped in a slim, stylish case under $5K, makes the C12 Loco a seriously attractive proposition.
How much does the Christopher Ward C12 Loco cost?
The Christopher Ward C12 Loco retails for GBP 3,995 ($4,825 USD) on a stainless steel bracelet or GBP 3,795 ($4,595 USD) when paired with a color-matched rubber strap and deployant clasp. Learn more at Christopher Ward’s website.
