Christopher Ward introduces the Twelve X Steel Special Edition, a 41mm timepiece limited to just 250 pieces. This exceptional watch builds on the success of its titanium predecessor, offering a reinterpretation that embraces traditional craftsmanship. With its hand-polished finishing, in-house Calibre SH21, and striking blue accents, the Twelve X Steel is a testament to Christopher Ward’s commitment to innovation and artistry.
Mike France, co-founder and CEO of Christopher Ward, encapsulates the significance of this release: “When we launched the Twelve X in titanium, the response blew us away. But one question kept coming up: ‘What about a steel version?’ Well, we’ve listened – and here it is. The new Twelve X Steel is not just the same watch in a different material; we’ve given it a character all its own.”
The Art of Hand-Polished Perfection
The Twelve X Steel takes a different path from the titanium model, favoring hand-finishing techniques over machine precision. Its 150 meticulously hand-polished facets require over six hours of dedicated work per watch. This labor-intensive process results in a radiant, multi-faceted design that captures light in remarkable ways, showcasing the artistry of traditional horology.
Each polished surface is complemented by brushed and sandblasted finishes, creating a dynamic interplay of textures. This attention to detail extends to the redesigned electric blue handset and luminous dial ring, which enhance readability while maintaining the watch’s bold aesthetic. Super-LumiNova® in pale blue provides exceptional visibility in low-light conditions.
A Movement Engineered for Precision
At the heart of the Twelve X Steel is Christopher Ward’s in-house Calibre SH21, a COSC-certified movement with a remarkable 120-hour power reserve. This automatic movement is powered by twin barrels and features a skeletonized design that showcases its intricate mechanics through box sapphire crystals on both sides.
Critical components such as the train bridge, automatic bridge, and balance bridge are hand-polished, further emphasizing the watch’s artisanal craftsmanship. Despite its intricate design, the SH21 is robust and reliable, a testament to its original design brief to balance durability with precision.
Distinctive Design Elements
The Twelve X Steel refines the design language of its predecessor with unique enhancements:
- Case Material: Polished stainless steel with contrasting brushed and sandblasted finishes.
- Dial Details: Blue accents on the handset and luminous ring, complemented by Globolight® markers at 12 o’clock.
- Dimensions: A slim profile of 12.3mm height, ensuring comfort on the wrist.
- Strap Options: Stainless steel bracelet or rubber strap, catering to diverse preferences.
The watch’s 41mm case and bold bridgework balance intricate details with cohesive design, ensuring that the open-worked movement is both visually striking and easy to read.
A Rare Opportunity for Collectors
Limited to just 250 pieces, the Twelve X Steel Special Edition is as exclusive as it is innovative. Despite the high level of craftsmanship, Christopher Ward has priced the watch at €5,105, matching the titanium model’s affordability. This achievement was made possible through partnerships with finishing experts APJ Sàrl, demonstrating the brand’s dedication to delivering value to collectors.
Mike France underscores this commitment: “We’ve worked hard with our partners to keep it affordable, offering it at the same price as the titanium model. It’s our way of giving back to the community that’s supported us for 20 years.”
Availability and Pre-Order
The Twelve X Steel Special Edition is available for pre-order now, with deliveries expected by late December 2024. For collectors seeking a unique blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern design, this watch is not to be missed.
Visit Christopher Ward’s official website for more information or to secure your pre-order.
