Christopher Ward is now building up a MOD-approved Military Collection and the C63 Valour is the first of the series. Ministry of Defense (MOD) approved watches have been released from other UK-based brands, so this step for Christopher Ward is natural with their already durable and rugged watches. The MOD requirements are not the only ones met for the C63 Valour, but the more stringent COSC chronometer rating for quartz watches is met as well. This chronograph is housed in the Christopher Ward “Light-Catcher” case and seemingly has all the build quality and tolerances that the brand is known for.
The C63 Valour is accurate to +/- 10 seconds a year with its ETA G10.212 AD COSC movement. It has been tested rigorously over 13 days and at 3 different temperatures and 4 separate humidity levels to ensure its thermal compensation abilities and consistency. On top of that, the movement neatly displays running seconds at 6 o’clock, a 30-minute register at 10 o’clock, and a 1/10th seconds counter at 2 o’clock.
The reverse panda dial (white sub-dials against a black dial) is one of the best color schemes in all of watches. Christopher Ward makes it even more interesting with each sub-dial hand being a unique splash of color. The diamond-polished, non-luminescent, silver numerals add a sleek sharpness, and I would not be surprised if the glow from the luminescent hour and minute hands reflected off of them when in their proximity.
The pump-style pushers will actuate the chronograph and they are attached to the famous light-catcher case. At 39mm in diameter, 11.55mm in height, and 45.8mm lug-to-lug, this chronograph is classically sized for everyone. Flip the watch over and you see the heraldic crests of the Army, Navy, and Royal Air Force which are deep-etched and sharp in detail.
The C63 Valour is the only quartz offering by Christopher Ward. They have always been known for their amazing value in automatic watches, and they have executed that same value in this battery-powered timepiece. COSC certification tests for quartz watches are more stringent than mechanical watches, and at $625 on the black canvas strap, $750 on the Bader bracelet, and $790 on their 5-link Consort bracelet, the C63 Valour is their most affordable watch.
The barrier to entry into a Christopher Ward watch has been set at an even more reasonable price, with the Valour, all while sharing commonalities with even their most expensive watches. Buyers can place a pre-order now for delivery in early May 2024.
Kevin is a serial hobbyist from Chicago who leaned heavily into his watch interest in March of 2020. His small collection favors appearance and comfort, which often leads to his sword-hand Seamaster or DLC Lunar Pilot on wrist. Having other obsessions like drumming to metal music, watching MMA, and perfecting his home gym, Kevin has found the watch hobby to be both relaxing and fun, but also incredibly expansive.