Christopher Ward C1 Moonphase 37

Quick specs Christopher Ward C1 Moonphase 37
Price: approx. $ 3,000 | € 2.495 | £ 1,995 | CHF 2’175 (leather)
Size: 37 mm
Reference: C01-37AMP2-S00B0-MB

The Christopher Ward C1 Moonphase 37 brings the moon phase complication into a more accessible 37-millimeter case. With its big moon, it is crafted for those who appreciate minimalist design, mechanical artistry, and the allure of celestial movements. It retains the photorealistic moon from its larger predecessor, offering a new size that suits any wrist while preserving elegance.

Christopher Ward, making watches in Switzerland but always underlining their British roots, first introduced the C1 Moonphase in a 40.5-millimeter case. This reference C01-40AMP2-S00B0 quickly gained recognition, including a nomination at the 2024 Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG).

Their Moon Phase Module Still Fits

Its reduced size still offers space for the space for the JJ04 moon phase module the brand developed. This 37-millimeter Moonphase features a brushed-and-polished stainless steel case with a thickness of 13.1 millimeters. And it is light, with a weight of 52 grams (77 grams with the strap). The midnight blue aventurine dial captures the essence of a starry night sky, thanks to its reflective copper oxide flakes.

The watch’s moon phase display is a standout feature. Crafted from Globolight, a ceramic and super-luminova blend, the moons are realistic and luminescent, offering a mesmerizing view of their craters and textures. This moon design is visible through an oversized aperture at the top of the dial.

JJ04 In-House Moon Phase Module

The Moonphase 37 is powered by a Sellita caliber SW220-1 with the JJ04 module on top. This movement links the moon’s phases to the hour hand, ensuring constant and smooth transitions. It eliminates the daily jumps seen in traditional moon phase watches, delivering a more fluid representation of the lunar cycle.

The standard day and date functions of the movement are not used. With a 38-hour power reserve, the caliber plus JJ04 module guarantees reliability for everyday use. The moon phase requires adjustment only once every 128 years if kept continuously wound, showcasing its mechanical precision. It comes on a dark blue Italian leather strap but for 150 more you can get it with a steel bracelet.

Buying the Christopher Ward C1 Moonphase 37

This Christopher Ward C1 Moonphase 37 retails at 2k in British pounds, about 2.5 to 3k in euros or dollars. Which is a remarkable value compared to other moon phase watches with similar artistry.

Alternatives like the Frederique Constant Classic Moonphase Date Manufacture or the Longines Flagship Heritage Moon Phase also offer a moon phase functionality. Smaller, and paired with a date function, for a little higher price. They lack the unique aventurine dial and photorealistic moon design but come with an in-house moon phase caliber.