A Hands-On Introduction To The Updated Christopher Ward C63 Sealander Collection
It’s unbelievable to see how Christopher Ward has grown over the past decade. The brand evolved from an enthusiasts’ favorite to one of the leading affordable brands in the industry. The rapid growth has been backed up by an ongoing string of new releases that never cease to impress. But Christopher Ward has been around long enough that it’s also time to update its current catalog. With the revamped C63 Sealander collection, the brand shows its great ambitions. We see a refreshed case design in three sizes accompanied by new dials, a smart new bracelet, and an updated caliber. This gives us plenty of reasons to check out the revitalized C63 Sealander lineup.
If you’ve paid attention to what Christopher Ward has been up to, you’ll have seen a variety of impressive releases, from the Bel Canto range to the C1 lineup with the Jump Hour and Moonphase variants, as well as the wide variety of Twelve models using different materials in different executions. It has been remarkable to see what the English brand has accomplished in a relatively short time. But for the past five years, its bread and butter has been the C63 Sealander line. This highly successful collection of everyday watches appeals to a large audience. With a great variety of sizes, colors, and executions, it has become a great entry-level mechanical watch for many enthusiasts. That’s why it makes perfect sense that the brand now introduces the updated C63 Sealander collection. And the updates are nothing short of impressive.
The details of the updated Christopher Ward C63 Sealander collection
Let’s start by creating an overview of the new lineup. Christopher Ward has introduced an updated collection of C63 Sealander Automatic and GMT models. The Automatics come in either 36mm or 39mm cases, while the GMTs are available in 36mm, 39mm, and 42mm sizes. All of them feature the updated Light-catcher case, which is slimmer and feels more refined thanks to clever details and intricate finishing. Additionally, all the new watches contain new lacquered dials featuring updated faceted indexes, an applied date frame, and updated fonts. Lastly, the watches are available with optimized stainless steel bracelets that feature the proprietary iLink bracelet system, allowing you to remove links without tools.
Another important update for the C63 Sealander Automatic models is the upgraded Sellita SW200-2 Power+ caliber, which offers a much longer power reserve. Christopher Ward is the first brand to use this new and improved movement. All in all, there is plenty to talk about, so let’s take a closer look at the different models to find out the details of the new releases.
The new 39mm C63 Sealander (left) next to the previous-generation 36mm model
The Christopher Ward C63 Sealander Automatic
Let’s kick things off with the updated C63 Sealander Automatic lineup. As mentioned, these watches are available in two sizes. The smaller of the two features a 36mm case with a 10.2mm thickness and a 42mm length, while the larger 39mm model has a 10.9mm profile and a 45mm lug-to-lug. The slimmed-down cases feel nicely proportioned, and the sharper new lugs give the design a more pronounced overall presence. Additionally, the crown guards have gone, and the new crown has a nice conical shape, which adds character to the overall design. The mix of brushed and polished finishes emphasizes the details that make this new case design more elegant than its predecessor.
Christopher Ward has also updated the dials for both sizes. These new lacquered dials feature redesigned diamond-polished faceted indexes and an applied frame for the date window. The new date discs match the dial color and printing. Additionally, Christopher Ward’s designers changed the fonts to make the dials look more modern. We also find an updated handset. What remains are the large arrow-shaped hour hand and sword-style minute hand. But the seconds hand was redesigned and eschews the much-debated trident counterweight. I think this is a clever change that cleans up the dial design nicely. In terms of dial colors, the 36mm model is available in black, white, light blue, and pink. The larger 39mm model comes with the choice of dials in black, white, light blue, or pistachio green.
Updated calibers for the Automatic models
As mentioned, the C63 Sealander Automatics now house the new Sellita SW200-2 Power+. This upgraded automatic movement runs at 28,800 vph, features 26 jewels, and offers a 65-hour power reserve. Compared to the 38-hour power reserve of the SW200-1, it’s a significant update. Additionally, the accuracy has improved from the previous generation’s range of ±7 to ±20 seconds per day to -5/+12 seconds per day. Lastly, the caliber also features a new custom rotor.
Another important upgrade is the stainless steel bracelets. Christopher Ward offers both sizes on either the familiar three-row Bader bracelet or five-row Consort bracelet. Both, however, now feature the new iLink system, which lets you remove links without tools.
The idea is simple: the underside of each removable link features a small button that releases the outermost link. After that link is released, the additional links slide out for easy removal. After you’ve sized the bracelet, the links click back into place, securing the bracelet.
Still very affordable
The Bader bracelet also has a new 1mm-slimmer clasp. This clasp retains the same toolless micro-adjustment system as before, but the sleeker design improves wearability. In addition to the two stainless steel bracelets, the brand offers the watches on a black curved-end rubber strap or a Camel Vintage Oak leather strap.
Pricing is the same for the 36mm and 39mm models. The C63 Sealander Automatic costs €1,335 on the Bader bracelet and €1,390 on the Consort bracelet. If you prefer the rubber strap, the price drops to €1,255. Lastly, on the leather strap, the new C63 Sealander Automatic comes in at €1,125. Looking at the prices and considering what you get for the money, that is nothing short of impressive.
Wearing the 39mm Christopher Ward C63 Sealander Automatic
But how does that translate on the wrist? I had a chance to try out the black-dial version of the 39mm C63 Sealander Automatic model on the rubber strap. While I would never choose the watch on the rubber strap, it was an interesting experience. It feels solid while still firm enough to balance the watch nicely on the wrist. Once there, the watch immediately reminded me of the incredible quality that Christopher Ward provides. No brand offers a watch this good for the same money. It feels solid, the finishing is nicely detailed, and the upgrades are worthwhile.
I especially like the optimized case design, which sits super comfortably on my wrist and looks slimmer and more refined than the previous one. On top of that, the updated dial design and the simplified handset look better than those of the previous generation. I was surprised how quickly I got used to the new look of the C63 Sealander Automatic. If I had to choose an affordable daily wearer in the Rolex Explorer or Oyster Perpetual style, this would be my top pick. It honestly is that good, both in terms of looks and technical upgrades. The new Sealander Automatic watches set a new standard, making them, without a doubt, the best in class.
The previous-generation 39mm C63 Sealander GMT (left) next to the new 42mm version
The Christopher Ward C63 Sealander GMT
This brings us to the new C63 Sealander GMT range. I reviewed the previous-generation C63 Sealander GMT by comparing the white-dial 36mm and 39mm models. This updated GMT series is now available in three sizes, all featuring the optimized Light-catcher case. A notable difference compared to the Automatic models is that the GMTs still have crown guards, which keep the sportier overall look. Additionally, the fixed stainless steel GMT bezel was redesigned for better overall proportions.
The smallest version has a 36mm diameter, a 10.9 thickness, and a 42mm length, while the 39mm model features an 11.3mm profile and a 45mm lug-to-lug. Finally, Christopher Ward added a new 42 × 11.5 × 48.5mm C63 Sealander GMT to the lineup. This new size will be a popular pick for people who like larger, bolder watches.
The updated dial design of the C63 Sealander GMT
When it comes to dial options, the 36mm model is available in white or light blue. The 39mm version is available with the same white and light blue dials, as well as a pistachio-green or black dial. Lastly, the bigger 42mm C63 Sealander GMT l is offered with the same white, light blue, and black dials.
The dial design follows the look of the Automatic versions. This means you get the same updated lacquered dials with new indexes, an applied date frame, and a new handset. One big difference is, of course, the additional GMT hand. The designers decided to make it bolder and fully painted, whereas the previous generation only had a painted tip. What immediately stands out is that the white dial now features black details rather than the silver ones found in the previous generation. This modification gives it more contrast and, overall, a more modern feel.
No upgraded movements for the Sealander GMTs
Just like the Automatic models, all three GMT sizes are offered on the three-row Bader bracelet and the five-row Consort bracelet, both of which feature the iLink system for easy sizing. On top of that, you can also get all three sizes on a black curved-end rubber strap or a Camel Vintage Oak leather strap. The C63 Sealander GMT series is powered by the Sellita SW330-2 caliber, which also powers the previous generation. Until Sellita releases a flyer-style GMT caliber, this is still the go-to movement for Sellita-powered GMT watches. It operates at 28,800 vph, has 25 jewels, and offers a 56-hour power reserve. But the caliber also comes with the updated custom rotor found in the Automatic models.
As with the C63 Sealander Automatic, the pricing for the GMTs remains the same across the different sizes. On the Bader bracelet, the C63 Sealander GMT retails for €1,560, and on the Consort bracelet, the price is €1,615. If you prefer the rubber strap, the watch costs €1,480. Lastly, on the leather strap, the new C63 Sealander Automatic comes in at €1,350. Looking at the prices and considering what you get for the money, that is tremendously good value.
Wearing the 42mm Christopher Ward C63 Sealander GMT
Christopher Ward sent us the 42mm model with the white dial to give us an idea of the new size and the updated dial design. I was impressed by both the overall comfort and the new dial. While I would pick the 39mm or 36mm version over the 42mm C63 Sealander GMT, I do understand the demand for a larger option. On top of that, the proportions ensure the watch sits very nicely on the wrist. Once again, the overall quality is superb, and all the little details add a lot of refinement compared to the previous generation.
The new white dial, in particular, is certainly a nice upgrade. The design has been simplified by removing the numerals that marked every five minutes, and the black hands, date window, and indexes contrast nicely with the white backdrop. The robust orange 24-hour hand matches the “GMT” text on the lower half of the dial. On top of that, it contrasts well with the three black central hands. But what I loved most of all was the overall feel of a slimmer, more refined version of the C63 Sealander GMT. Christopher Ward has made it into a proper luxury watch, and you can feel it.
Final thoughts on the new Christopher Ward C63 Sealander collection
After spending some time with the new Christopher Ward C63 Sealander models, I found myself seriously impressed. With this updated Sealander collection, the brand has raised the bar for quality and specs for affordable watches. What you get for the money easily beats watches that can cost up to two or three times as much as these.
Design-wise, these watches have been updated nicely without losing their distinct feel. Of course, they maintain the Rolex styling cues, but those contribute greatly to the success of the C63 Sealander series. With these changes, Christopher Ward shows how to cleverly update a line that has proven to be its biggest commercial hit. And after wearing the new watches, I found them even more impressive. So if you are in the market for an affordable daily wearer, I highly recommend checking out the new C63 Sealander Automatic and GMT models. They perfectly show what “best in class” means.
