In addition to incredibly cool tool watches like the C65 Dune Shoreline (objectively the coolest watch of all time, source: trust us) Christopher Ward also produce a range of watches devoted to our lunar neighbour. The C1 Moonphase is one of the purest expressions of the moonphase complication on the market and that was preceded by the C1 Moonglow from 2019. Now, that 2019 version of the Moonglow has received a visual update courtesy of the C1 Moonglow second generation.
The primary update to the watch is the case. Previously the C1 Moonglow was presented in a 40.5mm steel case with a thin crown, large, rounded flanks and long, thin lugs. It’s a style that feels like a vintage dress watch, which is at odds with the modern, forward facing style and attitude of Christopher Ward. That’s why the new version of the case is based on CW’s modern and sport Light-catcher case. It’s made from the same material and is the same size, but it’s much sleeker and more precise.
Specifically, the edge of the C1 Moonglow case is now flat instead of round and the edges have a polished bezel, creating a sharper, facetted appearance. The crown is thicker and more robust looking, putting a greater emphasis on easy utility. Plus, the lugs are thicker as well and the connection between them, the bracelet and the case is more solid, with no gaps visible anywhere. In short, the case just feels like it’s better made than before, more cohesive in its concept and execution.
As for the dial, it still features the characteristic double luminescent moonphase display with translucent glass dial. For the 2024 model, the luminescence of the moons has been increased for better legibility and a more striking appearance in low light conditions. I’m glad that CW haven’t really changed anything here because it’s a very unique interpretation of the complication.
Even the periphery features like the hour and minute scale as well as the pointer style date function with rotating indicator add to the overall style of the dial. Almost as if the moon is being viewed through a window of a spaceship with all sorts of computers and read-outs surrounding it. Which complements the updated modernity of the case.
Powering the C1 Moonglow is the same movement as used in the previous edition as well as the C1 Moonphase. The ETA 2836 with Christopher Ward’s JJ04 module, an automatic movement with 38-hour power reserve. It would be nice to see that power reserve increased a touch but it’s very standard for CW.
The new generation of the C1 Moonglow is available now at a price of £2,120, the exact same price as the Moonphase variant. Which makes sense considering that the only difference between the two is really the translucent dial and peripheral scales. The watch is also available at £1,995 on a Vacona leather strap instead of the consort bracelet, but I think it look much better on the bracelet. When the Moonphase was released, many people wondered if the Moonglow would be consigned to the history books, but no, it’s still here and it’s better than ever.
Price and Specs:
More details at Christopher Ward.
