Christopher Ward C8 Pilot MkII U-2 Vintage Edition – ‘Hands On’ Watch Review
Written by D Constant for The Watch Review Site.
Here at The Watch Review Site we would like to start by thanking the good people at Christopher Ward for supplying us with a review piece of their new C8 Pilot MkII, the U-2 Vintage Edition. Which is available on pre order and should be available to buy from the start of June 2012.
Now we have the thank you’s out of the way let’s get on with the real reason we are here, to see and review the Christopher Ward C8 Pilot MkII U-2 Vintage edition and put it through its paces on a Watch Review Site ‘Hands On’ Watch Review.
Our initial views are, that name it’s a bit long winded but it takes nothing away from the watch itself, The New Chr.Ward C8 Pilot MkII U-2 Vintage has moved on from the original C8 Pilot and also the C8 Pilot MkII, Gone are the Rivets on the Strap, the dial indicators and markers differ for that vintage look and it comes in a lovely 44mm PVD black case. Yes you heard right Black PVD (very nice)
It’s a lovely addition to the Christopher Ward C8 Pilot Collection,which has been around for a while now, it wears well and looks good in a variety of circumstances. The C8 Pilot MkII U-2 Vintage also performs as well as expected from any Swiss made and Swiss movement timepiece. All in All it’s a great little (well not little really) quality Pilot watch and for the money, well I haven’t seen or played with better.
So have Christopher Ward and their team pulled one out the bag here. Let’s get into the C8 Pilot MkII U-2 Vintage in Depth and see.
First off, when your C8 Pilot is delivered it comes very well presented in a black leather presentation box with light cream interior (which most would probably keep as it is a quality box to store watches that don’t require a winder), Along with this you get a quick start/functions guide, the guarantee and letter congratulating you on your purchase and a Christopher Ward microfibre cloth. All very nicely done. You feel like you have purchased a luxury timepiece from get go.
Once you get over the pleasure of unwrapping your new purchase you notice a fabulous looking, Striking Vintage style Pilot Watch, as Christopher Ward have so kindly pointed out on their website, the C8 Pilot is a traditional Pilot Watch which is based upon the 1940’s classic IWC B-Uhren watch. If you ask me with its Black PVD case there an argument to say it’s akin to the Bell & Ross BR Vintage 123 Carbon Series in looks. Not a bad thing hey.
The C8 Mk2, is very well balanced in style and colour choice throughout, hopefully this comes across in our attempts to do the Christopher Pilot MkII u-2 Vintage justice in our photographs.
What do you expect from a classic Pilot Watch?
Well, whatever it is the Chr.Ward C8 MkII U-2 Vintage has it, from its 44mm Black PVD case to its CW branding on the distressed orange/brown leather strap, its the complete package.
The vintage retro feel begins with your first glance at the Watch, the hands and markers, to slightly contrast its black dial are the in military beige as the use of “Old Radium Super Luminova” is apparent which gives more than sufficient Lumin for the discerning Pilot along with the vintage feel such a timepiece deserves.
And it just goes on with the new distressed leather brown/orange strap (less rivets – I feel it’s better without the rivets and allows the watch to be worn for different occasions easily) is a great touch by Christopher Ward. Now on to the piste-de-resistance in my opinion of the C8 Pilot MkII U-2 Vintage, it’s Black PVD Case making this Pilot a competitor in the looks department for most of the (shall we say) more expensive and well known Pilot Watches out there.
Even its large onion style crown has the CW touch on the head. Whilst we are talking large the case is 44mm and I have very small wrists, when I first took the C8 out of the packaging to place on my wrist (after struggling to reduce the strap size to suit me, the struggling bit is due to me being a little impatient and the strap being new and stubborn, but in a good way) I thought this is going to be way too big for me. But no once on it felt very comfortable, the crown did not infringe or extrude at all and the watch sat nicely on my wrist this may be down to the thickness of the watch but whatever it is it fits well even for the limp wristed like me.
Over and above the obvious first impressions you also notice the time and effort and preciseness that Christopher Ward have put into the C8 Pilot Mk2 U-2 Vintage (I really can’t think of a way of shortening this name without referring to previous CW Pilots, Sorry);
Like the date window on the dial, Christopher Ward use a black date disc, others would have used white, and it is placed so it doesn’t infringe on the 3 o’clock marker, another great touch.
The Buckle, it’s the same as previous C8’s but also coated in Black PVD, with the CW logo on it, the placement of the CW logo on the strap end, further the CW logo on the crown, yes it sounds like there are lots of logos but they are done so meticulously well they are not in your face and are just really good touches to an already great watch.
The weight of the watch, it feels like you have made a substantial purchase, it’s weighted very well and is solid and wholesome.
But the thing I like best is the unique case back with a small round window allowing you to see the Swiss Selitta SW200 movement, but that’s not all the case back also has it also has a stamped image of what can be described an airplane wing, you tell me.
Its these little touches that make the Christopher Ward, not just a good Pilot Watch but a Great one, Now add all the above to the fact that it is powered by a true Swiss movement in the Selitta Sw200-1 and you have the complete package and all for well under £500.00.
Yes, Gasp, Shock Horror, Amazement, This Christopher Ward C8 Pilot Watch – U-2 Vintage in Black PVD which can compete with the four figure equivalents very easily comes in at less than monkey.
To Sum up it has been a pleasure sporting the Christopher Ward C8 Pilot MkII U-2 Vintage Watch for the last few weeks, this is a clean, simple, well built automatic Vintage Pilot Watch that can hold its own in any company.
The Quality and outstanding build quality, along with the clear effort that would have been put in to achieve such a great timepiece far exceeds its price tag.
Taking everything into consideration its British design, Swiss movement, Swiss made I would go as far to say that if you where to only buy one Traditional vintage Pilot Watch to add to your collection the Christopher Ward C8 Pilot MkII U-2 Vintage is the one for you.
For anyone that is interested we have a little photo gallery of the Christopher Ward C8 Pilot MkII U-2 Vintage after the technical details below.
Christopher Ward C8 Pilot Mk2 U-2 Vintage – Technical Details
Case : Steel coated with Black PVD
Diameter: 44mm, Height: 9.7mm,Weight: 114g
Soft iron anti-magnetic inner case
Movement: Selitta SW200-1 Automatic, with manual winding option
26 Jewels
Incabloc anti shock system
Power reserve: 38 hours
Frequency: 28800 per hour
Dial: Black Soft iron anti-magnetic
Anti-reflective sapphire crystal
Hands and Markers Old Radium Super-luminova
Case Back: Screw down back plate , Balance wheel viewing window
Strap: Tunnel stitch and calf’s leather strap
Buckle: Black PVD Butterfly opening deployment system
Christopher Ward C11 MSL Black Manta MK I – Hands On Watch Review
Written by D Constant for The Watch Review Site
We have the pleasure of undertaking a ‘hands on’ watch review of the New Christopher Ward C11 MSL Black Manta Mk1, which is currently available for pre-order via the Christopher Ward London Limited website. As you probably already know Christopher Ward only sell their watches online via their own website, this marketing method allows CW to reduce marketing costs and hence the market price of their British designed, Swiss made and manufactured timepieces.
The C11 MSL Black Manta MK1 is the latest in the range of aviation watches on offer by Christopher Ward, it is an addition to the already established Christopher Ward C11 MSL Range. The C11 MSL Black Manta comes with an all new PVD black case, this being the primary difference between the previous released C11 MSL which sported a polished steel case, It is available as a Chronograph Watch or Automatic Watch. The later being the one we have to play with and on that note thank you to the guys and gals at Christopher Ward for providing this C11 MSL Black Manta Mk1 Automatic watch for us at the Watch Review Site to put it through its paces in one of our ‘Hands On’ watch reviews.
So on to the task at hand, The C11 MSL Black Manta MK1 Automatic, Another one of CW’s long names, yes, yes, I know we can call it the C11 but that doesn’t differentiate it from the other C11’s does it so it’s the full name again.
We are not going to go into detail about how it is delivered as we have covered this on previous Reviews as in the C8 Pilot Hands on review, let’s just say you will not be disappointed when you receive your package.
First impressions are that this is an aviation watch that is based on a modern airplanes altimeter so heading away from the traditional pilot watches to a more contemporary version of a pilot watch akin to the Bell and Ross’s of this world. On the C11 MSL Black Manta we have a round dial placed in an altimeter style PVD black stainless steel case, CW have even placed a screw in each corner to depict the altimeter look even further.
Christopher Ward state the following with regards to the design and inspiration behind the Black Manta “Based on the cockpits of fast jets the C11 MSL is indeed an interesting and fast paced addition to the range, whilst less workmanlike than some if its peers, the C11 MSL retains its functionality.”
The C11 MSL black Manta has a very clean and crisp look to it, and makes a bold but understated statement when on the wrist, this 42mm case and 35.2mm dial are strikingly simple and attractive, with very large white numerals at 12, 3, 6 and 9 and large wide black and white striking hands, the entire piece comes together and has a sense of purpose.
The lack of minute indicators adds to the watches simplicity, but does not impair the reading of the time. Along with the inconspicuous second hand (a good thing in my book) and very well placed white numbers on black date indictor at 4 o’clock, the C11 MSL Black Manta MK1 Automatic ticks all the boxes in the looks department.
It’s a large watch but slim and wears well and fits even on small wrists, It’s light yet weighty enough to feel very comfortable on the wrist, It’s simple yet bold and striking and it can be worn daily with a suit or with casual wear, it’s adaptive and whatever the occasion brings attention to your wrist because of all the above. A wrist watch for all occasions.
As we are talking about looks and styling we should really mention that the Black Manta has a flat anti reflective coated sapphire crystal glass with the anti reflective coating being present on the exterior of the glass and not the interior as in the norm with Christopher Ward watches, this was a step taken as the glare reduction is substantially increased with the coating on the outside of the sapphire crystal as opposed to the inside. You do notice a blue tint to the sapphire crystal , which is down to the anti reflective coating but that doesn’t distract from the look of the watch at all and is only visible when the watch is in certain positions.
Along with the effective use of the coating, museum grade sapphire crystal has been used which further increases clarity and night time visibility of the C11 MSL Black Manta Mk1 Automatic.
With regards to night time visibility the numerals, markers and hands are all coated with SuperLuminova and its Lumen at night provides a very visible timepiece.
As you may well already know I have quite petite wrists and need to wear most watches (scrap that, all watches) on the smallest possible fitting and even then may need to add a hole or two myself, not always very successfully, (that’s where custom straps come in) so a 42mm case is always a challenge but this CW C11 MSL fits well and is very comfortable to wear even for me, this could well be down to the slimness of the watch at 10.7mm. See for yourselves in these wrist shots.
It’s a comfort that the C11 MSL Black Manta Mk1 Automatic fits well as it would be a shame to replace the strap with a customised version as so much attention to detail has been put into this by Christopher Ward from the black buckle, so delicately emblazoned with Christopher
It’s a comfort that the C11 MSL Black Manta Mk1 Automatic fits well as it would be a shame to replace the strap with a customised version as so much attention to detail has been put into this by Christopher Ward from the black buckle, so delicately emblazoned with Christopher Ward London and two decorative screws to match the case. The strap itself feels thick and sturdy and has quality stitching, with the small CW logo at the end. Oh and it has tool free simple to use quick release lugs.
Again these little touches and attention to detail show how Christopher Ward value your custom and reflect the recent step up in build quality we have seen in the Christopher Ward ranges, we saw it with the C8 Pilot and the C11 MSL Black Manta is also built to exacting standards with quality workmanship.
Moving onto the Case back of the Black Manta, again we see Christopher Wards emphasis upon design and quality, in normal circumstance you have your serial numbers and water resistance figures, not here on the C11 MSL Black Manta MK1 you have an engraved Latin inscription and a jet, the inscription translated stands for ‘Reach for the Stars’ quite apt for an aviator watch. Oh it also says Swiss made and has a serial number to the lower end but as such are not very noticeable so don’t detract from the main engravings.
We should really begin to mention to movement, again as with other Chris Ward pieces they have opted for the true Swiss mechanism in a Selitta SW200-1 or ETA 2824-2, both mechanisms do the same job and are of similar quality, the reason for two movement selections here is that ETA movements have becoming more and more limited in the market place due to steps by the owner Swatch in restricting supply, but Selitta movements are just as good and are becoming more and more popular.
So once again Christopher Ward have pulled one out of the bag with the C11 MSL Black Manta Mk1, it comes with a unique and attractive case design, and bold simplistic dial and on the wrist, it’s absolutely gorgeous.
Casing point here we had both the C8 Pilot MkII U-2 Vintage and C11 MSL Black Manta MK1 Automatic in for review at the same time, both turned out to be great watches but when I first opened the boxes I was drawn to the C8 Pilot it retro look, and undeniable Pilot Watch look but with time it was the C11 MSL that spent the most time on my wrist. Now that’s saying something as the C8 is a fabulous watch and one I would recommend to anyone who wants a retro vintage Pilot, but the C11 MSL Black Manta is really just that little different and little diverse and that i like…
One very important thing we have not mentioned in this review yet and it’s the price of the Christopher Ward C11 MSL Black Manta Mk1 Automatic at just £450.00 incl. VAT (UK Price) it just makes it even better, we can’t see many unique aviators with such a build quality and customer service backup in the market to compete at this price bracket.
The C11 Black Manta comes with the option of black or brown leather straps and is also available as a Chronograph at £399.00 incl. VAT (UK Price with) a Ronda 5030.D movement.
We have spoken to the team at Christopher Ward and we can confirm that we will be seeing further variation on the C11 MSL with a HRDC (Historic Racing Drivers Club) edition and a Mercedes Benz Club edition. The HRDC version looks lovely and we will be getting hold of it for review when its available fingers crossed.
As with all our hands on watch reviews here at The Watch Review Site we have provided a little gallery of photos of the Christopher Ward C11 MSL Black Manta MK1 Automatic after the Technical Details.
Technical Details – Christopher Ward C11 MSL Black Manta Mk1 Automatic
Case: 316l Surgical Grade Steel coated with Black PVD
Diameter: 42mm, Height: 10.7mm, Weight: 108g
Movement: ETA 2824-2/Selitta SW200-1 Automatic, with manual winding option
25/26 Jewels
Incabloc anti shock system
Power reserve: 38 hours
Frequency: 28800 per hour
Water Resistance: 100m/10atm
Dial: Black
Black date calendar
Anti-reflective museum grade sapphire crystal
Hands and Markers Luminous hands and Indexes Superluminova
Case Back: Hand Polished Screw-in back plate
Strap: 22mm Italian leather strap
Buckle: Black PVD
Photo Gallery – Christopher Ward C11 MSL Black Manta Mk1 Automatic
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The Watch Review Site is ONE…..
We are One…….. Woo Hoo….
Yes it has been one year since we launched The Watch Review Site and to celebrate and thank you all for tuning in to our posts and articles in our first year we have teamed up with David Mason London and Steveo Straps to give you the chance to receive a David Mason DM1b as pictured below with a hand made Steveo Strap. Sorry but we will have to pick the strap for you unless you email us on [email protected] with your preference from Steveos Site www.steveostraps.com and if you win we will try and make sure you get the strap you want, there will be a delay in delivery as the strap needs to be made after the winners announced, small price to pay for your own choice of strap.
WIN A DAVID MASON LONDON DM1b with Bespoke Handmade STEVEO STRAP.
David Mason London is one of the new kids on the block in the British watch industry and we have it on good authority that they are making strides towards bringing to market a fantastic offering for us watch enthusiasts and lovers..
Since there inaugural watches reviewed here, they have revamped their corporate image and logo, got a new website and have committed to produce British Designed Swiss Made timepieces. We have had a sneak peek at whats to come and we are pleasantly surprised, there’s swiss made auto’s, auto chrono’s and some very affordable quartz chrono’s and more.
SteveoStraps is also a British based business, who has been on our radar here at TWRS for a while, his products are all handmade right here in the UK, by his own fair hands and the quality is fantastic.
Steveostraps was born in Surrey UK as a hobby in 2009. Each strap is handmade and takes approx 2 hours to make. The leathers are sourced from a wholesale supplier in Birmingham which gives Steveo a massive selection of textures and colours to work with. Being handmade means that no two straps will be identical so you can be sure of an original watchband for your timepiece.
To ENTER just register for The Watch Review Site Newsletter on the right in the sidebar, or login and leave a comment below…. Don’t forget if you leave a comment mention your strap choice if you can.
Photograph courtesy of David Mason London and Andrew Lofthouse Photography
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Citizen Red Arrows Watches
Written by Chris Derrer – Blogger for The Watch Hut
Citizen watches have been some of the most popular timepieces in world for many years, but since their partnership with the Red Arrows came into place in 2010, they have had a whole new range created that has become one of the most popular ranges in the brands history.
There are two World Time Chronograph watches and three Skyhawk watches as part of the Red Arrows range, offering an array of styles, but all giving that sleek and stylish look that is synonymous with the Red Arrows. Every watch in the collection also features that famous Eco-Drive system that Citizen are so proud of, meaning the watches never need a battery.
Starting at the more humbly priced pieces, we have the World Time Chronograph watches, one with a stainless steel bracelet strap and the other having a black leather reptile effect strap. Both watches feature chronograph function, a multi dial display and a large round dial, but when it comes to smartness, the leather strap version just edges it, as it offers something slightly different and with the contrasting red stitching, it really stands out.
If we double the price, we come to the Skyhawk Red Arrows series, similarly they have a black leather strap option with red stitch trim and reptile effect finish, but there is a choice of two stainless steel bracelet strap watches. All three have radio controlled atomic timekeeping but the most expensive piece in the collection, the JY0110-55E also boasts a perpetual calendar making it very accurate and reliable, so much so that you’ll never need to adjust it again.
All of the Red Arrows watches feature the Team logo on the case back and RAF logo on the dial so they can be worn with pride.
You can check out the entire Red Arrows collection from Citizen watches at The Watch Hut
Follow Chris on Google+ and on Twitter @WatchHut_Chris
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TSOVET hitting new heights – Tsovet PX collection
Press Release by Horology Design Limited
Talented designer Jacques Fournier blows Californian brand TSOVET into the atmosphere with the latest release of Tsovet PX collection.
With its head office based in USA California, Tsovet release new collections designed by the British studio Horology Design Limited driven by Swiss watch designer Jacques Fournier.
SVT-AX87 SVT-GG42 SVT-PX87 .
Under the supervision of David Bonaventura and for the last 3 years, Jacques has entirely re-looked at the brands timepieces with the new SVT-AX87, SVT-GG42 and more recent SVT-PX87 collection released this Autumn 2012.
Inspired by Industrial and aerospace design, it was somehow a perfect challenge for the Swiss designer who is always aiming to provide brands new groundbreaking timekeepers. When Jacques created the very first AX87 back in 2010, David’s immediately adhered the overall case look and particularly the incredible and exclusive idea of the ventilated crown guards which are now trademarked. It was the beginning of the long collaboration which was going to lead to many more creation.
The Tsovet timeless watches incorporate quartz and automatic movements imported from Switzerland. Any Tsovet would sit nicely on the wrist of those daring to explore their respective environments, whether it be the rugged hills of Cumbria or those late nights spent checking the time out on the town.
Once again thank you to Jacques and Horology Design Limited for this release and photos. you can buy Tsovet watches from most reputable high street jewellers and watch specialists we have also found an authorised dealer on ebay which we have dealt with in the past and they are really helpful and provide a great service here is the link if you want to buy one they retail from around £150.00 upwards to £450.00 dependant on model, size and movement – http://stores.ebay.co.uk/Localtime-Online/Tsovet-/_i.html?_fsub=1756507013&_sid=188691693&_trksid=p4634.c0.m322
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The Frecce Tricolori loyal to the Breitling Chronomat
Press Release by Breitling
On October 18th, Breitling and the Frecce Tricolori met up at the Italian air base in Rivolto to reaffirm the longstanding partnership and to reveal a new Chronomat 44 bearing the flight team’s livery, along with a limited edition featuring the same design.
Among the many exceptional squads that are associated with Breitling, the Frecce Tricolori – the Italian airforce aerobatics team – holds a place of its own. In 1983, the brand with the winged B was chosen by the “tricolor arrows” to design their official watch. In doing so, Breitling worked closely with pilots in order to create an authentic aviation chronograph. A year later, in 1984, it was based on this ultra-functional, original and elegant watch, that the brand launched its famous Chronomat – that has since become its star model and was recently reinterpreted.
Almost 30 years later, Breitling is perpetuating these ties by creating for the Frecce Tricolori a special version of the Chronomat 44 customized in the team colors. For devotees of high-flying feats and aviation in general, the firm is also offering a 1,000 piece limited edition with the same exclusive design. Its black dial (like the original 1983 model) bearing silver-toned counters with red hands is distinguished by the team logo emblazoned at 12 o’clock. Composed of three arrows in the red, white and green colors of the Italian flag, it is topped with the inscription “P.A.N frecce tricolori” (P.A.N. standing for Pattuglia Acrobatica Nazionale). The caseback bears the engraved silhouette of the ten Aermacchi aircraft composing the squad. The ultrasturdy steel case and the bezel with black rubber-incrusted numerals feature satinbrushed tops and polished sides. Water-resistant to the exceptional depth of 500 meters (1,650 ft), the watch houses Manufacture Breitling Caliber 01, a highperformance chronograph movement entirely developed and produced by Breitling, and chronometer-certified by the COSC. It is available with a choice of wristbands notably including a new black rubber strap with embossed Breitling signature.
The Frecce Tricolori Chronomat 44 and the limited edition were presented during a special event organized at the patrol’s Rivolto airbase in north-east Italy. It was attended by team pilots, a number of Breitling guests, along with members of the military, leading personalities and key representatives of the national press.
Breitling Chronomat 44 Frecce Tricolori – Technical Details
Movement: Manufacture Breitling Caliber 01, officially chronometer-certified by the COSC, selfwinding,
high-frequency (28,800 vibrations per hour),
47 jewels.
Over 70 hour power reserve.
Functions: 1/4th second chronograph, 30-minute and 12-hour totalizers. Calendar
Case: Steel.
Diameter: 44 mm.
Dial: Onyx black.
Water-resistant to 500 meters/50 bars (1,650 ft).
Screw-locked crown and pushpieces.
Unidirectional ratcheted rotating bezel.
Cambered sapphire crystal, glareproofed on both sides.
Strap/bracelet: Rubber Diver Pro III (with Breitling signature) / Pilot.
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Breitling Navitimer Blue Sky Limited Edition 60th Anniversary
Press Release by Breitling
Breitling celebrates the legendary Navitimer’s 60 years in flight
To mark the 60th anniversary of the Navitimer chronograph, the cult model among pilots and aviation enthusiasts, Breitling is introducing a 500-piece limited edition with an elegant dial in an exclusive shade of blue and aptly named the Breitling Navitimer Blue Sky.
In 1952, Breitling – already a firm fixture among aeronautical professionals – decided to create a new “wrist instrument” specifically designed with aviators in mind. The result was the Navitimer with its famous circular slide rule providing simple and fast handling of all calculations relating to airborne navigation: an authentic wristworn instrument panel. In an era preceding the advent of electronic calculators, this model unique in its kind was soon adopted by many pilots for flight preparation and monitoring – whether it came to calculating average speed, distance covered, fuel consumption or rates of ascent and descent.
The only authentic aviation chronograph in widespread use, it was naturally chosen as the official watch by the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, the largest of its kind in the world and of which the logo often appears on models from the 1950s and 1960s.
The Navitimer features a functional design and a highly original technical yet elegant look that is recognizable at first glance. It thus established itself as one of the ten great 20th century watchmaking classics, a timeless benchmark in its field and a reliable value.
Continuously made since 1952, while remaining loyal to the aesthetic of the original, it is the world’s oldest mechanical chronograph still in production. A handsomely stylish limited edition to celebrate its 60 years in flight, the favorite watch among aviation enthusiasts is now available in a 500-piece steel limited edition with a magnificent blue dial, a silver inner bezel and a red central chronograph seconds hand. A handsomely stylish new face for the most emblematic Breitling model.
A transparent caseback affords a chance to admire Manufacture Breitling Caliber 01, the best selfwinding chronograph movement. The series number is engraved on the case middle at 9 o’clock, and the color match is reinforced by an exclusive dark blue crocodile leather strap. The Navitimer Blue Sky Limited Edition 60th anniversary is also available on the Navitimer bracelet – or the highly original perforated Air Racer bracelet.
Navitimer: the legend lives on.
Breitling Navitimer Blue Sky Limited Edition 60th anniversary – technical details
Movement: Breitling Caliber 01, officially chronometer-certified by the COSC, selfwinding
high-frequency (28,800 vibrations per hour),
47 jewels.
Over 70-hour power reserve.
functions: 1/4th second chronograph, 30-minute and 12-hour totalizers. Calendar.
Case: Steel
Case Diameter: 43 mm.
Dial: Aurora blue, blue totalizers.
500-piece limited series.
Water-resistant to 3 bars.
Bidirectional rotating bezel with a circular slide rule.
Cambered sapphire crystal, glareproofed on both sides.
Strap/bracelets: Dark blue crocodile leather/perforated Air Racer or Navitimer.
Christopher Ward C11 MSL Automatic Vintage – ‘Hands on’
Written By D.Constant
We got a pleasant surprise one morning when whilst sitting at our desk working away on our computer a knock on the door, we both look at each other thinking I’m not expecting anything, you… yes on that particular day there were two of us in the office. So off I go to the door and to my surprise it was a Christopher Ward Box, when you see one of those without even opening it your eyes have to light up…
Post man said another watch? which one is this then? to my surprise again as I’ve never actually managed to get a word out of him before.
My reply was Hope so… And Not a clue whats in the box but I’m sure it will be good as its from Christopher Ward.
He said “yeah they are some nice watches I’ve got the C5 Malvern” showing me his wrist with a smile on his face
Lovely…
I’m sure you don’t want to know the extent of the conversation, but lets just say the postie is a watch man and I have found a friend for life I think oh and not to mention my post will never go missing again…
On Opening the package, we were presented with the usual top quality packaging and watch box, which wouldn’t go amiss from anyone’s bedside table or dresser and what do we see but the new C11 MSL Automatic Vintage, CW knew our feelings on the C11 MSL Black Manta, which we reviewed a few months ago, so I assume they thought we would appreciate seeing the newest addition to the family and they were right any delivery from Christopher Ward is always received with open arms at The Watch Review Site, shame we have to send them back after a few weeks.
So on to the C11 MSL Automatic – Vintage Edition by Christopher Ward, at first glance its basically the C11 MSL Automatic Black Manta which we reviewed in depth here. The version we received was the one with the brown strap, The biggest difference between the two watches is the lumin coating on the hands, indices and markers.
Christopher Ward state the following with regards to the design and inspiration behind the C11 MSL Vintage “The vintage edition of the much-heralded C11 adds a new dimension to this modern classic CW design and was inspired by the courage and determination of the American test pilots of the post-war era who paved the way for the 1960s space programme.”
This new old radium superluminova coating forms a very light brown, vintage appearance and this is has been applied to the indices, markers, numerals and the tips of the hands, This off sets very well against the black PVD case and black dial. I must say that I personally prefer the Black Manta with its high white lumin, but that is a totally individual opinion. The new Lumin gives a new dimension to the watch and gives the C11 MSL Vintage a distinctive look.
I have to add here looking at the Chr.Ward website the colour of the lumin does not come out in the photo’s its a deeper cream edging brown. hopefully its clearer in our photographs, they may not be as professional and as good as the ones from CW’s Website but hopefully they do a job.
Whilst we are talking about the look of the C11 MSL Vintage, this new addition to the C11 aviation range has the new Christopher Ward London Watches Logo in letters i.e. CHR.WARD LONDON with no Logo. I actually prefer the new style which I know is a no no for a lot of Christopher Ward fans, but given time I’m sure they will get used to this new modern look of the logo.
Christopher Ward have added a new watch to an already great range and have given the customer something else to think about when purchasing a C11 MSL, the case is still extremely sharp and in my opinion quiet unique in its octagonal-ish shape and round dial. we still see the Automatic (which is the only type Christopher Ward have manufactured in the Vintage) with a Sellita SW200-1 calibre at its heart. As with all Christopher Ward Watches the movement is Swiss made.
Another difference, albeit very small is the hand finished case and case back on the C11 MSL Vintage Automatic Watch with unique engraved serial number, I am sure the others didn’t have this, but if they did sorry… the hand finished bit that is.
As we stated before there is no chronograph in the vintage C11 but it does come with two strap options, both triple thickness Italian leather 22mm straps, one in brown and the other in black. Also the straps have a quick release clip too, great for changing straps easily and without the need of any tools.
As this is a hands on review we have to have the obligatory wrist shot or two, and can only but reiterate that the fit of the C11 MSL is very comfortable and its 42mm case does not look overly large or out of place on my slight wrists, The strap is comfortable and the watch has a distinctly nice weight and feel to it.
Technical Details – Christopher Ward C11 MSL Vintage Automatic
Case: 316l Surgical Grade Steel coated with Black PVD, hand finished
Diameter: 42mm, Height: 10.7mm, Weight: 108g
Movement: Sellita SW200-1 Automatic, with manual winding option
26 Jewels
Power reserve: 38 hours
Frequency: 28800 per hour
Water Resistance: 100m/10atm
Dial: Black
Black date calendar
Anti-reflective museum grade sapphire crystal
Hands and Markers Old Rodium Luminous hands and Indexes Superluminova
Case Back: Hand Polished Screw-in back plate
Strap: 22mm Italian leather strap in black or brown
Buckle: Black PVD
Photo Gallery – Christopher Ward C11 MSL Vintage Automatic
Why not check out some other ‘Hands on Reviews’ of Christopher Ward Watches on The Watch Review Site, like the C11 MSL Mk1 Black Manta Automatic or the C700 Grande Rapide Chrono.
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Breitling Chronomat 41 Limited Edition
Breitling Press Release. – Aug 2012
An exceptional fuselage for an exceptional engine
Performance. Precision. Elegance.
The Chronomat 41 with its Manufacture Breitling caliber and its superb presence on the wrist has asserted itself as the chronograph par excellence. The epitome of the Breitling spirit. The brand now offers its star model in a 2,000-piece limited series that will appeal more strongly than ever to enthusiasts of original designs.
The sporting touch is accentuated by a black dial with a red central chronograph seconds hand and red counter hands. An authentic, understated and powerful instrument panel. The original and generous lines of the steel case are enhanced by all-polished finishes – as are the bracelet and the rotating bezel engraved with exclusive numerals. The transparent sapphire crystal case-back affords the rare privilege of a chance to admire Breitling Caliber 01, the world’s finest chronograph movement, entirely developed and produced in the brand workshops.
Water-resistant to 200 m (660 ft), the Breitling Chronomat 41 Limited is naturally chronometer certified by the COSC (Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute) – as indeed are all Breitling models. A strong, unique and quintessential design, combined with all the performances expected of an authentic “instrument for professionals”.
The Breitling Chronomat 41 Limited is available at around £7,000 in the UK
Breitling Chronomat 41 Limited Edition – Technical details
Limited Edition of 2,000 pieces
Movement: Breitling Caliber 01, officially chronometer-certified by the COSC, selfwinding
high-frequency (28,800 vibrations per hour),
47 jewels.
Over 70-hour power reserve.
1/4th second chronograph, 30-minute and 12-hour totalizers.
Calendar.
Case: steel.
Diameter: 41 mm.
Water-resistant to 200 m (660 ft).
Screw-locked crown and push pieces.
Unidirectional ratcheted rotating bezel.
Cambered sapphire crystal, glareproofed on both sides.
Dial: Onyx black.
Bracelet: steel Pilot.
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David Mason Watches DM1a & DM1b – Hands on Watch Review
Written by: D Constant for The Watch Review Site
We have been given the absolute pleasure in getting our hands on the inaugural David Mason Watches, the business is branded as David Mason London or sometimes DM London.
This young British watch brand/watchmaker has hit the market running with their first soiree into the watch world with two models the DM1a and DM1b an Oversized GMT Pilot Watch, both are solely available online from David Mason Watches direct at www.davidmasonwatches.co.uk
So let us begin our Hands on Watch Review in great tradition, by thanking David Mason Watches and David himself for sending us both the DM1 GMT Pilot Watches for review. Regular followers of The Watch Review Site on Facebook and Twitter you would have had a sneak peek at the DM1a and DM1b over the last couple of weeks, if your not following us on Twitter please do so @WatchReviewSite you can also follow David Mason Watches on Twitter at @DMasonWatches
Sorry for dragging that out a little, now onto the actual review, to start with this is mean’t to be an Oversized Pilot Watch, usually that means I’m weary to place it on my scrawny 6 1/2 inch wrists, yes only 6 1/2 inches… As the DM1a and b have a 46mm case diameter and 56mm in length or height from point to point (this being the two furthest points of the lugs) you would think that this watch will look ginormous on my wrists. I’ll let you decide (See photos below), but in my personal opinion it actually fits surprisingly well, it is unobtrusive whether whilst wearing under the cuff or with casualwear, even with its 12mm under cuff depth the DM1’s still feel perfectly balanced.
Here is the customary wrist shot of the DM1B.
On to the watch, this is a typical Pilot Watch per-say, exactly what you would expect it has the classic Pilot Watch shaped case with the added benefits of GMT. The GMT function comes to us on the DM1A and DM1B as an additional 24 hour ring and red hand with separate crown to set a home town time whilst abroad, so you are always aware of the time in two timezones at once. We found the 24 Hour ring works very well and is simple to adjust and set.
Both watches have a solid construction and the stainless steel case and engraved case backs give these quartz watches a weighty substance on the wrist, They are not too heavy and lead you to easily forget you are wearing a watch on your wrist even, that is even though it is a large and substantial piece of outerwear. As I always say a watch should be comfortable, you should be able to forget that it’s on your wrist until you need it and the DM1A and DM1B GMT Pilot Watch does just that.
Of the two models we really don’t have a preference, the DM1A is an all black number which portrays a modern twist to the David Mason Oversized Pilot Watch and comes with a black face, off white luminous hands, markers and numerals for greater visibility in low light conditions. You also have a separate red 24 hour hand for use with the GMT function. The black against the stainless steel case and white thick stitching on the black strap all add to the watches visual prowess.
As for the DM1B, this is perfect with a summer suit and just has that little classic vintage feel to it, with its off-white edging toward cream dial, with black numerals and markers. Unlike the DM1A the 1B does not have lumin on the markers and numerals, so low light usage is really limited and that is even with luminous hour and minute hands. The brown or tan leather strap really sets off the David Mason DM1B Pilot Watch very well, but to make it really good the strap needs to be thicker and less new, i.e needs to be vintage leather, grainy and rugged.
Both Models have two crowns, the lower crown at 4 o’clock is for the sole use of the 24 Hour outer ring, which is bi-directional. The standard screw in crown at 3 o’clock controls the date, 24 Hour indication and hour & minute hands, it also bears the DM logo etched into it. The two crowns differ in looks, some people like this other despise it, I’m in the first camp on these watches it works to define the different functions of each crown. Whilst discussing the logo we see its presence on the case-back and buckle of both the DM1A and DM1B Oversized GMT Pilot Watches along with the crown.
As for the functionality of these David Mason DM1 Pilot Watches, along with the already disvussed 24 hour 2nd timezone function of the DM1A and DM1B, we also have a date window at 4 o’clock, large thick markers and oversized Arabic numerals at 3, 6 and 9 and instead of the 12 we have the David Mason logo. For me I may have included a large 0 or 12 instead of the logo and omitted it entirely from the dial of the watch. As you know from reading this review I have mentioned the logo some four times in previous paragraph or two, this may portray a feeling that it is ‘in your face’ and a little bit overkill. In reality, it is not in the slightest. It appears that David Mason has put some thought into the positioning of all the logos and it is uncommon to have two logos in view at the same time. So its very well planned and executed. But again not that it defers from the watch but personally I may have not had a logo on the dial.
Moving on, we always talk about the names of watches and to be honest DM1A and DM1B are not the most imaginative names for a watch. What it does do is what it says on the tin, DM for David Mason I presume and 1 for the first in hopefully an ever increasing range of David Mason Watches. The A and B denomination differentiates between the White dial and black dial watches and can be deemed to be model numbers. What has come to light is the confusion in this instance as the David Mason Watches website classifies the DM1A as the Black and DM1B as white faced version, whereas the casebacks differ in as much as the DM1A is the white face brown Strap (pictured above) and DM1B the black face and black strap. Note to David Mason himself, please rectify. One other thing on the name next time give us something more to talk about please.
The one thing I must take David to task on, is his choice of straps for both watches, not the fit of the strap but simply the feel. Yes, they are real leather and have the added feature of the contrasting white stitching, which is great. But the leather is too crisp, too shiny and too rigid for my liking, something a little softer with a bit more of a worn feeling and a little more malleable would be more to my liking. Maybe even an RAF/NATO Braided Strap could work well. As I mentioned before the strap on the DM1B or Brown Leather strap is actually a nicer strap but still a little too fresh for me, that’s all down to taste though.
The natural flow from the strap is to the buckle, this is a straight forward buckle and using it, is obviously simple. It is made of stainless steel with a small David Mason DM logo to the right and feels well constructed and solid, no spindly little hook here.
The caseback is stainless steel and is again engraved with the logo, watch model number i.e. DM1A and the customary water resistance rating, in this instance 10 atm or 100 meters. We alos have the unique numbered serial number which indicates this is a limited edition series of 100 timepieces for each model.
To the heart of a watch and the last thing we need to look at is at on the David Mason Over-sized GMT Pilot Watch is the movement, well it is a Quartz movement made by Ronda a Swiss Quartz Wristwatch Movement manufacturer, David Mason opted to use the Swiss Parts Ronda 515 movement with GMT abilities, probably wouldn’t be my personal choice. As this is a Swiss Parts movement David Mason Watches cannot say that the DM1A and DM1B are Swiss Made, but the parts are the same parts as used in the Swiss Made Ronda 515 movement, what differentiates it is where it is constructed by Ronda outside of Switzerland, actually Ronda Swiss Parts movements are all constructed in Thailand.
I would have definately liked to see a Swiss Made movement, giving David the ability to market the watches as Swiss Made, but there may be a very good reason for this and we will follow that up in our interview with David in the next week or so…
The Ronda 515 is a True GMT movement and is a very good quartz movement, which is used in a number of more expensive mainstream timepieces, it consists of 1 jewel (for anyone that is interested) and has a battery life of 45 months, that’s a good 3 1/2 years before you have to consider getting the battery replaced, a simple job for any jeweller.
As we have mentioned, we will be undertaking an interview with the man behind David Mason Watches. If you have any questions you would like to put to him, please let us know through the comments box below. We are hoping to get the interview online on The Watch Review Site within the next two weeks (both parties schedules allowing). I will be asking him which watch is the DM1A and which is the DM1B as there seems to be some confusion, in this hands on watch review we have used the classification as per the website, but on the watches we had for review the caseback implies that they should be the other way around. This is a tiny niggle which can be easily rectified if need be by amending the website to match the caseback engravings.
The overall feel of the David Mason DM1A & DM1B GMT Pilot Watch is great, its well balanced, comfortable and fits very well on the wrist, anyone who has had the pleasure of purchasing one has got themselves a very nice watch that can be worn daily and for different occasions. When you add the fact that these watches are currently retailing via www.davidmasonwatches.co.uk at a mere £120.00, yes you got it right only £120.00 and at that level I’ll be keeping one of these for myself I think… Update September 2012 they are now £160.00 still cheap as chips…
One Last thing that makes owning either of the DM1A or DM1B David Mason Oversized GMT Pilot Watches is the fact that they are manufactured in a numbered limited edition of 100 pieces each. Yes a limited edition, weighty, nice, well built timepiece for only £120.00 at the price I really think you will be hard pushed to find anything better out there. It’s accepted you can get better automatic mechanical movement pieces, but they came in at a lot more than the David Mason DM1a & DM1b Oversized GMT Pilot Watch.
As with all our hands on watch reviews here at The Watch Review Site we have provided a little gallery of photos of the David Mason DM1a & DM1b Oversized GMT Pilot Watch after the technical details.
David Mason DM1A & DM1B Oversized GMT Pilot Watch – Technical Details
Ronda 515 Swiss parts movement, True GMT Movement
24 hour indication GMT hand , 3 hands (Hours, Minutes & Seconds), Date at 4 o’clock
24 hour ring activated by separate crown
Water resistance – 10 atm, 100m
Stainless steel case
Case Diameter – 46mm
Case Height – 56mm from two furthest lug points
Inner Lug to Lug width- 22mm
Case Back Stainless Steel, Unique engraved with DM Logo and individual serial numbers
Super-luminous hands
Screw-in crown and separate 24 hour GMT crown
Strap – DM1A – Black leather strap with nu-buck lining and thick stitching
Strap – DM1B – Light brown oil leather strap with nu-buck lining and thick stitching
Steel buckle with DM (David Mason) etched logo
Limited Edition of 100 numbered pieces of each DM1a and DM1b
Oh and here are some Photographs of the David Mason DM1a & DM1b GMT Oversized Pilot Watch
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