Christopher Ward C7 Rapide Chronograph Automatic

Following the retirement of the popular C70 and Mk2 C7 quartz motorsport range, CW set about creating a completely new range of motorsport-inspired watches, this time including both quartz and automatic models. The C7 you see here is the watch that ticked the ‘auto chrono’ and ‘flagship model’ boxes in that new range.

It uses the tried and trusted ETA 7750 Valjoux, as also found inside inside many premium watch brands such as Breitling, TAG Heuer, Panerai, Omega, IWC etc.

It was launched in 2017 at a cost of £1,500 and was the first watch to feature just the ‘twin flags’ icon on the face instead of the CW logo. The watch for sale here is one of the very first ones out of the door - it has serial number 0003! It’s a September 2017 piece and will come with a three month Ward Hoard warranty.

Like any watch with a 7750 heart, it’s on the taller side at 14.3mm, but certainly not as tall as some. Many buyers are attracted by nice details like the scalloped lugs with their polished edges and the contrasting black ring around the case. With its innovative multi-part case assembly and sporty good looks, it makes quite a statement on your wrist.

Condition
It’s in 99.9% new condition. The only blemish I can find are a couple of tiny hairline marks on the twin flags logo on the case back - probably from having been set down on a rough surface once.

The original CW Piccari leather strap (no longer available from CW) looks like it’s never been worn - just a light crease from storage.

On the timegrapher it’s keeping time at +14 seconds per day - well within the +/-20sec specified by CW.

Supplied in the original deluxe wooden case including user book with warranty card. If you’re happy with the smaller box I can reduce the price by £25.

Specifications

• Case size: 42mm

• Lug width: 22mm

• Height: 14.3mm

• Waterproof: 100m

• Movement: ETA 7750 Valjoux

User Manual

A PDF version is available on the CW website: https://www.christopherward.com/on/demandware.static/-/Library-Sites-cw-library/default/dw5c0fb485/pdfs/Motorsport/c7-rapide-chrono-auto.pdf

Final Notes

• The first photo is a library shot. The rest all show the actual watch and package.