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’ box in that new range.

It uses the tried and trusted ETA 7750 Valjoux, as found inside the new £1,700 C60 Chronograph and inside many other 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 officially retired from website view in 2018, but the last remaining stock actually remained available through 2019 and even the final few into 2020. The watch for sale here is a July 2019 piece, so it’s one of the later ones and the transferable 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 (and expensive to manufacture) multi-part case assembly and sporty good looks, it makes quite a statement on your wrist.

Condition
It’s a pretty young watch which hasn’t been worn much, so it’s in great condition. It has picked up a few light marks here and there, but nothing immediately obvious. Upon close inspection all I can really find are some marks caused by strap changes. It’s fitted with the original Piccari Italian leather strap (with Geckota buckle), however please note it’s the smaller size model, making it suitable for wrists approx. 5.5-7.5in in diameter. Also included with the sale is a brand new standard size Geckota black canvas strap with leather lining and red stitching.

Supplied as a ‘full set’ including original case, letter, unused polishing cloth and Certificate of Authenticity, however because it was sold as an ‘historic’ model, CW no longer had any copies of the user manual in stock, so instead it comes with a covering letter directing you to the PDF manual 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.