I wanted to allow a few days for those of you out there reveling in the holiday spirits to, well, quit reveling so that I could give the summary report of the C9 Harrison Jumping Hour.
Perhaps one of the most striking - and for me appealing factors of this watch is the dial and the face. The dial is a beautiful execution with the pattern on the interior with the minute indication divided by a silver-toned ring. The ring then dips downward at 12 o'clock to create a display window for the hour indication. Overall, a very nice balance, lending texture and depth of field.
The use of a blue hour hand was also a very well-considered choice. It lends just enough differentiation without sticking out like a sore thumb.
As I have said earlier in this review, the finish on this Christopher Ward offering is really of a different class than some of their lower-priced models. This is understandable - a more expensive watch would lead you to expect a higher price tag. But I think that is also a case where you can really see where the extra money went. It is really smooth case and crown, and the deployment clasp functions smoothly without a hiccup.
The decision to use an actual alligator strap as opposed to an embossed calf strap was also a good choice. It adds the right "feel" for this watch. After fifteen days the leather is nice and comfortable, and a real pleasure to wear.
Comfort wise, the C9 Jumping Hour is really a joy to have on the wrist. It is substantial without being overwhelming. It is 43 mm which is right at the cusp of the outer limits for a dress watch, but because of its classic design, and a rather subdued bezel, this size seems to be "just right".
The timekeeping has been great. I did finally have it "timed" by a watchmaker using "electronic methods" ; ) and the rate was + 6 seconds! I really got used to the Jumping Hour function, and now I find myself slightly confused by traditional three handed set-ups! I can honestly say that that once you get used to the orientation, it really becomes second nature!
I have to say at $1,585 the C9 Harrison Jumping hour is priced very well. And it creates an opportunity for Christopher Ward to offer something of a different class for those who want something unique, not just the latest version of a diver, a pilot's watch, etc. And to be clear, there is nothing wrong with those choices either - but this is something else - something not for everyone - and I think that should be appreciated. Whether or not Christopher Ward should focus more on watches at this level, diversify even further, who will win the European Championship this summer... all of these topics will be discussed over numerous cups of coffee, glasses of beer and the always available sausages in Basel by yours' truly and the usual suspects in a little more than two months' time!
The use of a blue hour hand was also a very well-considered choice. It lends just enough differentiation without sticking out like a sore thumb.
Comfort wise, the C9 Jumping Hour is really a joy to have on the wrist. It is substantial without being overwhelming. It is 43 mm which is right at the cusp of the outer limits for a dress watch, but because of its classic design, and a rather subdued bezel, this size seems to be "just right".
I have to say at $1,585 the C9 Harrison Jumping hour is priced very well. And it creates an opportunity for Christopher Ward to offer something of a different class for those who want something unique, not just the latest version of a diver, a pilot's watch, etc. And to be clear, there is nothing wrong with those choices either - but this is something else - something not for everyone - and I think that should be appreciated. Whether or not Christopher Ward should focus more on watches at this level, diversify even further, who will win the European Championship this summer... all of these topics will be discussed over numerous cups of coffee, glasses of beer and the always available sausages in Basel by yours' truly and the usual suspects in a little more than two months' time!
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