Introducing Christopher Ward Unveils the C63 Sealander True GMT

Christopher Ward strengthens its in-house expertise with the introduction of the new C63 Sealander True GMT, featuring a fully developed traveller GMT movement. Like many contemporary brands, the British watchmaker is implementing a strategic plan to develop in-house calibers. For this latest C63 Sealander, Christopher Ward has created a true GMT movement specifically for its flagship collection.

While most GMT watches provide the time in at least one additional time zone, true traveller GMT watches go further. Standard “caller” GMT watches only feature an indexable 24-hour hand that tracks another time zone via the crown. True GMTs, however, allow for an independently settable local hour hand, letting the wearer adjust to a new time zone without disturbing the main timekeeping functions. These movements are mechanically complex, which explains why smaller brands have historically had limited options for such in-house complications.

The C63 Sealander True GMT is housed in a 40.5mm Light-Catcher case, featuring two box-shaped sapphire crystals with anti-reflective coating on both the front and caseback. 

The steel case is elegantly finished, with an ultra-thin bezel, brushed surfaces, and thin polished bevels. While the watch measures 14.15mm in total height, the case alone is a slender 9.75mm without the crystals. Water resistance is rated at 100 meters.

The dial is available in black with light blue accents or silver with orange accents. Constructed in multiple layers, it features a small seconds sub-dial at 6 o’clock and a power-reserve indicator at 9 o’clock. The asymmetrical sub-dials use different hand styles for clarity. The surface is deeply grained through an embossing process, which, combined with the layered design, distinguishes between local and home time indications.

At 3 o’clock, the GMT bridge is fully exposed, showcasing linear brushing, sandblasting, and hand-polished facets alongside a circular brushed GMT wheel. The hour chapter ring features applied, lumed indices with a diamond-polished rhodium surround. A color-matched date wheel at 3 o’clock completes the functional and aesthetic layout.

For this collection, Christopher Ward developed a new caliber based on the CW-001, originally created for the brand by Synergies Horlogères, a company previously part of the Fossil Group and merged with Christopher Ward in 2014.

The new Calibre CW-002 incorporates an integrated GMT complication without increasing movement height. A dedicated plate supports the GMT wheel while limiting the height of new components. In total, 23 components have been added: 16 newly designed and seven modified from existing CW-001 parts. Its twin-barrel construction delivers an impressive 120-hour (5-day) power reserve. The movement runs at a 4Hz frequency and is COSC-certified. Finishing includes rhodium-plated plates and bridges with circular Geneva stripes, complemented by a tungsten rotor featuring sunray-polished and sandblasted surfaces.

Operating the CW-002 is intuitive. Pulling the crown to the first position adjusts the local 12-hour hand in one-hour increments. The second position allows for setting the 24-hour and minute hands for home time and advancing the date, ensuring a traveller-friendly experience.

The C63 Sealander True GMT is part of Christopher Ward’s permanent collection. It is offered on a steel bracelet with brushed surfaces and polished edges, secured by a push-button clasp with 6mm of micro-adjustment, priced at EUR 4,090 (approx. 17,225 AED). Alternatively, a rubber strap matching the dial accents (orange or light blue) with a folding clasp is available at EUR 3,950 (approx. 16,640 AED).

For more information visit Christopher Ward official website.