It is rare for a microbrand to launch a watch that can compete with the big boys. Because of this, you can certainly see the release of the Bel Canto as unique for the brand.
This timepiece is completely different from any other timepiece we are used to from this brand. The name of the model “Bel Canto” or translated “beautiful singing” already reveals a part in which this timepiece distinguishes itself.
Each hour in time that passes the timepiece lets you hear via a sound. This sound can be turned off or off via a button on the side so you can also enjoy a soundless night’s sleep.
This sound is reproduced by the new Calibre FS01.
This additional module is a modification of the “jumping hour” inner workings that produces a resounding sound every hour by a hammer hitting an oval tuning fork.
This kind of complication is usually found only in the “Haute Horlogerie” at brands such as A. Lange & Söhne (Zeitwerk), Breguet, Armin Strom, … in the form of a minute repeater.
“Minute repeaters” were developed in England in the 17th and 18th centuries and tell time in hours, quarters and minutes – hence their name. Repeaters served a practical purpose; because there were no modern lights at the time, they could tell time in the dark.
This complication is fairly exceptional for a watch manufacturer so the fact that a microbrand like Christopher Ward is coming to market with this makes it even more special. The only drawback we personally find is that Christopher Ward used a Selita SW200-1 movement for the base of the movement instead of their own SH-21 movement. They probably made this choice to reduce costs but in our opinion they could have raised the level of this timepiece one step higher by opting for their own SH21 version anyway.
Because the additional complication is visible on the dial, the time indication was reduced and moved to the top of the dial. The presence of the complications directly on the dial adds tremendous depth making this timepiece actually a work of art in itself.
The movement, with its 41mm case diameter and 13.25mm thickness, is certainly not of the smallest but the use of Grade 5 Titanium reduces the weight of the movement making it very wearable.
To top it off, this timepiece costs “only” 3595 euros.
This is by no means a small investment but when you know that the big names charge ten to a hundred times and more for this type of complication ensures that this price is impressive to say the least.
If you are now thinking, I want it too, we have to disappoint you for now. Because the initial run was limited to 300 pieces for the blue one, it sold out in less than half an hour. A green edition was also launched that sold out just as quickly.
| Model | Christopher Ward Bel Canto |
| Movement | Selita SW200-1 with FS01 module |
| Power Reserve | 38 hours |
| Diameter | 41 mm |
| Water resistance | 30 m (3 ATM) |
| Material Case | Grade 5 Titanium |
| Watch strap | Titanium or leather |
| Price | 3595 euro |
| More info | |