Monday 9 February 2015

Christopher Ward takes a new jump

Christopher Ward is celebrating the launch of its ground-breaking C9 Jumping Hour Mark III presented in a stylish new design. With the growing demand for smaller diameter dress watches, the new 40mm model offers an elegant evolution of the C9 aesthetic that has become the signature look of the brand’s premium watch collection. It is the third expression of watchmaker Johannes Jahnke’s calibre JJ01 modified movement.

Christopher Ward C9 Jumping Hour Mark III watch

Understated design

Hand-assembled at the company’s atelier in Biel, Switzerland, the Mark III adopts Arabic numerals in the hour change aperture at the 12 position on the optic white dial. The new features are designed to combine with the understated design of the dial. The Mark III retains the proven calibre JJ01 that is visible through the screw-down exhibition case-back, and is offered on a leather strap with a double-folded Bader deployment. 

Jahnke’s modified jumping hour complication is among the most precise jumping hour mechanisms, according to the company. The energy for the jump is generated over the course of an hour, ensuring that the power usage for the watch remains consistent throughout and also makes for a more robust movement. The model incorporates a 38-hour power reserve.

Appealing to both men and women

Mike France, co-founder of Christopher Ward, explains the emphasis behind the new sizing: “The Jumping Hour, powered by the outstanding calibre JJ01, stands as one of our finest creations. The new 40mm size provides a stunning new option for customers seeking a smaller case size and we see this model appealing to both men and women wanting not only a more compact dress watch but also a more intriguing one. We are especially delighted to see how the evolution of the model has delivered three unique expressions while clearly retaining the essence of the crisp design aesthetic of the C9 family.”

He continues: "The Christopher Ward brand was founded on a mission to put premium quality watches within the reach of everyone and, with this launch, the Jumping Hour achieves a quantum leap in the level of value for the customer. We’re delighted that we are starting to reap the cost benefits of last year’s merger with our long-standing Swiss atelier partner, Synergies Horlogères, and the release of the stunning new smaller diameter Jumping Hour Mark III is an opportunity for us to share these benefits with our customers."

The stylish presentation box contains a letter of authenticity, signed by Jahnke. 

The C9 Jumping Hour Mark III retails at £995/$1,375/€1,250 and is available to buy at www.christopherward.co.uk.