Christopher Ward C70 DBR1 Limited Edition

As most CW aficionados will know, the C70 DBR1 models are some of the most desirable and collectable watches CW has made. The DBR1 line started in 2009 when the first DBR1 was one of the original eight-piece C70 Grand Prix series - see them all here. There were 500 of each watch, but it was the GB and the DBR1 models which both sold out way before the others.

Following the success of those early C70 models CW released COSC-certified versions of the GB DBR1 edition arrived in 2010. Both models were given ultra-accurate movements, they featured “CHRONOMETER” printed on the lower sub dial and they had different case backs.

The watch for sale here is C70 DBR1 COSC number 300 of 300 - serial numbers don’t get much better than that!

Condition

The C70s exposed alloy bezel and thinly applied paint make it notoriously delicate (CW has long since exhausted its supply of replacement bezels/cases), so finding one in great condition is becoming increasingly challenging…

…finding one still in brand new condition is almost impossible - but that’s what we have here!

This example has had its protective vinyls removed, so there’s a chance that it’s been worn at some point, but based purely on my inspections of the head and strap, I’d say they’re still in as new condition.

As with the bezels and cases, CW no longer has any stock of replacement straps, so this original, fitted-shoulder, C70 DBR1 strap is worth a small fortune on its own!

This watch is offered as a ‘full set’ box and papers. It comes in the correct original deluxe presentation cases with green internals and engraved plaque. Those coloured internals are prone to flaking off if the box is kept in cold/damp conditions such as lofts and garages, but this one has clearly spent its life indoors as it’s in great shape.

Also included are the original covering letter, unused polishing cloth, COSC certificate (signed by Chris Ward himself) and the user manual with Certificate of Authenticity. Of the 500+ CW watches I’ve owned, I’ve never once seen a CofA where CW failed to complete the details, but that is the case with this watch! As a result, I don’t know the exact date of sale, but based on everything having the original circular CW logo, it will have been ether 2010 or 2011, because in 2012 the CHR. WARD logo arrived and watches immediately started getting letters and polishing clothes with that newer logo.

Specifications

• Case size: 42mm

• Lug width: 22mm

• Height: 10.7mm

• Waterproof: 50m

• Movement: ETA 251.232 COSC quartz

User Manual

A PDF version of the owner’s manual is available on the CW website: https://www.christopherward.com/on/demandware.static/-/Library-Sites-cw-library/default/dwfb8b0622/pdfs/Motorsport/c70cosc_manual.pdf

Final Notes

• Note the first photograph is a library shot, the rest all show the actual watch and package.