Christopher Ward C7 Rapide Chronograph Automatic

Following the retirement of the popular C70 and Mk2 C7 quartz motorsport range in 2017, 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. It was only around for a year between 2017 and 2018, but the watch for sale here was actually sold in July 2019, making one of the later ones you’ll find. The transferable CW movement warranty is valid until July 2024.

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 brand new, unworn condition. The original CW Piccari leather strap is slightly curved thanks to the packaging, but has never been worn.

On the timegrapher it’s keeping great time at +7 seconds per day - just outside the +6sec COSC window (it’s not a COSC model by the way) and well within the +/-20sec specified by CW.

Supplied in the original CW case including unused polishing cloth, Certificate of Authenticity and two covering letters, one of which explains that it’s a historic model, so CW no longer had any user books. The letter directs you to the online PDF version mentioned below.

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.