Christopher Ward proudly introduces the C1 Bel Canto Classic, the anticipated follow-up to the chiming watch that captivated enthusiasts worldwide. This new release retains the innovative “sonnerie au passage” complication but brings fresh enhancements, making it a worthy successor to the original.
The Bel Canto Classic draws inspiration from its predecessor while incorporating new design details and technical updates. It now features a meticulously laser-etched guilloché platine, creating an eye-catching pattern that dances with light. The dial also sports an updated handset and is covered by a glass box sapphire crystal, which gives the face added depth and evokes the charm of vintage acrylic crystals, all while retaining the scratch resistance of sapphire. Owners can choose between a variety of strap and bracelet options, allowing for a custom look and fit.
When the first C1 Bel Canto launched in November 2022, its initial 300-piece series sold out within hours, and the watch soon gained recognition at the Grand Prix d'Horlogerie de Genève. It took home the Petite Aiguille prize in 2023, marking a milestone for both the model and for Christopher Ward as the first British brand to win at the prestigious awards.
“The Bel Canto has truly been transformative for us,” notes CEO Mike France, reflecting on the watch’s role in the brand’s rapid growth over the past year. "While demand soared, we adapted, growing production from 50 units monthly to 500, ensuring we could meet the overwhelming interest."
Scaling up production called for creative problem-solving. Initially, Christopher Ward partnered with artisanal suppliers for the Bel Canto’s intricate components, but to keep pace with the watch’s popularity, the company expanded its supply network. CEO Jorg Bader Sr., in Switzerland, recounts how these changes led to the creation of a new partnership with APJ, a finishing house capable of delivering fine craftsmanship at scale.
Additional CNC machining for movement components, such as the FS01 calibre’s bridges, is now handled by Paoluzzo, a Swiss machining firm specializing in aerospace and medical technology. Christopher Ward’s investment in Paoluzzo secures a long-term source of finely-made parts, helping the Classic maintain its high standards of quality.
Visually, the Classic takes a refined approach, combining high-contrast Roman numerals and a brushed time-telling dial with a subtle minute track. This layout enhances readability, and together with the new guilloché detailing, it brings a sophisticated vintage feel. The Grade 5 titanium case and FS01 movement, which produces that distinctive hourly chime in D, remain unchanged, retaining the essence of the original Bel Canto.
The C1 Bel Canto Classic is available in four new colors on Seta leather straps, each with a graceful taper from 22mm to 16mm, or on a titanium bracelet with a Bader clasp and micro-adjustment for a versatile, comfortable fit.
Christopher Ward C1 Bell Canto Classic Key Specifications:
Case material: Grade 5 Titanium
Case diameter: 41mm
Lug-to-lug: 48mm
Lug width: 22mm
Weight: 53g
Water resistance: 3 ATM (30 meters)
Movement: FS01 (based on Sellita SW200-1)
Complication: Passing chime with on/off pusher
Power reserve: 38 hours
Jewels: 29
Timing tolerance: +/- 20 seconds per day
Price: Starting at £3,495 on leather, £3,745 on titanium bracelet
With its new visual details and the timeless chime complication, the C1 Bel Canto Classic is poised to delight collectors and new enthusiasts alike, building on Christopher Ward’s legacy of distinctive, finely-crafted timepieces.
Learn more about the Christopher Ward C1 Bel Canto Classic at Christopher Ward
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