Christopher Ward, the British watchmaker celebrated for its seamless fusion of English design and Swiss craftsmanship, has made its Texas debut with a showroom in Frisco. Located in The Shops at Starwood, this elegant space offers more than just a chance to purchase a timepiece—it’s an invitation to experience the art and engineering behind these extraordinary watches.
At Christopher Ward, the philosophy is simple: exceptional watches shouldn’t come with astronomical price tags. By operating as a direct-to-consumer brand, the company ensures honest pricing—watches are priced by tripling production costs, avoiding the excessive markups typical in the luxury watch market. This approach has earned them a loyal global following of watch enthusiasts who appreciate high quality without pretense.
Crafting Attainable Luxury
Christopher Ward’s mission is to offer “attainable luxury” without compromising quality. With entry-level Swiss-made watches starting under $1,500, the brand redefines what high-quality timepieces should cost. Yet, even at this price point, the craftsmanship rivals that of brands selling watches for three or four times the cost.
“The idea is simple: no middlemen, no inflated prices, just exceptional watches,” explains Michael Pearson, North American Brand Director for Christopher Ward. “Whether it’s your first watch or your 20th, our goal is to provide something extraordinary that resonates with every wearer.”
This ethos is reflected not just in the pricing but in the brand’s quirky British charm. Visitors to the showroom are greeted with a relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere where tea or coffee is offered, and the focus is on helping customers fall in love with the perfect watch. Pearson adds, “It’s all about making people feel at home—like visiting an old friend who just happens to have a collection of incredible timepieces.”
For football fans, the brand’s partnership with Everton F.C. offers a nod to its British roots. Christopher Ward is the official timing partner for the club, with its logo proudly displayed on the team’s kit. It’s another way the brand weaves storytelling and community into its identity.
A Unique Chiming Marvel: The Bel Canto
The centerpiece of Christopher Ward's collection is undoubtedly the C1 Bel Canto, a revolutionary chiming watch that has captured the attention of watch enthusiasts worldwide. Traditionally, chiming watches—known as 'Sonnerie au Passage' in horology—are priced well into six figures, making them exclusive to a very small market. With the Bel Canto, Christopher Ward has brought this complication within reach, offering it at a fraction of the cost.
What sets the Bel Canto apart is its ability to chime a clear, melodic "D" note at the top of every hour. Powered by the in-house Calibre FS01 movement, this innovative watch includes over 60 new components that enable the chiming mechanism. The steel gong encircling the dial is struck by a hammer, producing a sound that is both technically impressive and aesthetically delightful.
“The Bel Canto changed everything for us,” says Pearson. “We’re delivering a complication that’s typically reserved for ultra-high-end watches, but in a way that’s attainable without compromising quality or craftsmanship.”
Housed in a lightweight 41mm titanium case, the Bel Canto is as visually stunning as it is mechanically impressive. The exposed chiming mechanism is prominently displayed on the dial, inviting wearers to marvel at its intricate design. With a variety of dial colors available, the watch offers elegance, innovation, and exclusivity in equal measure.
Highlights from the Collection
While the Bel Canto takes center stage, Christopher Ward’s collection includes a range of standout timepieces that showcase the brand’s dedication to quality and innovation. Among these is The Twelve, a striking sports watch that combines bold, contemporary design with a distinctive dodecagonal bezel and an integrated bracelet. Available in both titanium and stainless steel, The Twelve is a modern icon that appeals to those who value both form and function.
For diving enthusiasts, the C60 Trident Pro 300 offers exceptional performance. With a robust 300-meter water resistance, a ceramic bezel, and a Swiss-made automatic movement, this flagship dive watch is as reliable as it is stylish, making it perfect for underwater adventures or daily wear.
The C1 Moonphase, on the other hand, is a masterpiece of elegance and craftsmanship. Its aventurine dial mirrors a starry night sky, while a luminous, photorealistic moon tracks the lunar cycle with remarkable precision, staying accurate for 128 years. This blend of functionality and beauty makes it a favorite for those seeking sophistication in every detail.
Paying homage to vintage dive watches, the C65 Super Compressor combines retro aesthetics with modern engineering. Its innovative “super compressor” system increases water resistance as pressure rises, while its design features evoke a nostalgic charm, making it a distinctive addition to any collection.
Come See for Yourself
Discover what makes Christopher Ward a standout in the watch world by visiting their Frisco showroom. From revolutionary chiming mechanisms to vintage-inspired designs, there’s a watch for every style and story.
Appointments are required, ensuring each visitor receives the full attention of the showroom team. Book your slot today at Christopherward.com and experience the blend of English heritage and Swiss precision that makes this brand so utterly charming.
Christopher Ward Showroom
5285 Dallas Parkway, Suite 510
Frisco, Texas 75034
www.christopherward.com
