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| Christopher Ward C9 Moonphase watch |
Expressive dial with mesmerising effect
In developing Calibre JJ04, Jahnke modified the base ETA
2836-2 by creating two gear systems incorporating four wheels to drive the moon
disc, and a further two wheels for the setting mechanism. The result is a
smooth and continuous movement of the moon disc, in synch with the minutes and
hours, creating an advance on the common use of a disc that jumps once a day
(which often renders the moon window inaccurate for several hours each day,
according to the company). Once set, the representation of the moon’s phase at
any particular moment is unerringly precise and the new gearing ensures that
the moon disc is also accurate to within one day every 128 years of the base
movement’s accuracy.
The C9 Moonphase is presented in two colour options: white
and gold or midnight blue and silver. Housed in the hand-finished 40mm case and
beneath a domed sapphire crystal is perhaps the brand’s finest and most expressive
dial to date, displayed through a wide, curved aperture a generously-cut moon
disc, conveying clearly the increments of the moon’s passage through the skies.
The surface of the large moon disc is 3D-stamped and carries
a semi-matt galvanic finish, creating a mesmerising effect for the viewer. A
bespoke guilloche pattern appears on the lower half of the centre dial, inspired
by the tidal patterns of the moon’s gravitational pull. Combined with the
polished hands and indexes, the overall design seeks to bring the oceans and
the moon together harmoniously.
Mike France, co-founder of the brand, explains the
commitment behind the new model: “We enjoy a unique quality of relationship
with fans of the brand across the world, particularly in the CW Forum, and a
moonphase model has been probably their most vociferous and consistent call. Of
course, we could have responded by rushing out a moonphase model but we have
taken the time – over three years – to ensure that we got it absolutely right. To
paraphrase JFK, we chose to make a moonphase in this way not because it was
easy but because it was hard, and Johannes Jahnke rose magnificently to that
challenge to create an extraordinary new movement.”
The new model is available for delivery in mid-November,
with the leather strap version retailing from £1,295 (alligator strap upgrade
£1,357.50) and the stainless steel bracelet model at £1,395, exclusively at
www.christopherward.co.uk.
