I’ve really liked the CW models that we’ve reviewed here on these pages – I’ve found them to be a great mix of styling and movements, and all at very affordable prices. Today, we’re going on a little different path in the CW catalog.
Different, in that we’re going to be taking a look at a limited edition model, one that has a rather impressive movement at its heart. The model in question is the C9 Harrison Chronograph (product page) in blue. And this watch is blue, through and though. You’ve got a sapphire blue dial, and that color carries forth onto the Louisiana alligator strap as well. In fact, the only other colors in the watch are white and chrome.
So, being as my favorite color is blue, we were off to a good start. I”m still uncertain about the strap, perhaps brown or black would be more to my personal tastes on a watch. Oh, and with that strap? It’s one of the squeakier ones I’ve had one lately – not something I’d normally associate with a higher-end watch like this.
So, aesthetics aside, what of it’s technical prowess? In that regard, you really just need to know one thing – the movement is a modified Valjoux 7750. This is a very capable engine, and it drives the main time keeping functions and the chronograph.
It does feel a little odd to not see an active seconds hand running with the main time. Of course, that just gives you an excuse to put the watch to your ear to hear that high-beat movement working away, now, doesn’t it?
And, as with the Hamilton models I’ve looked at recently with the same movement, the rotor spun like nothing you’ve seen before, and the watch was dead accurate.
This is all housed in a 43mm stainless steel case with display back, an AR-coated sapphire crystal up front, netting a water resistance rating of 50 meters. All in all, this makes for a very impeccable dress chronograph.
With the movement and the limited nature of this model (only 250 pieces worldwide), the asking price of $1350 seems reasonable. Of course, should you not care for the blue (but still like the design and the movement), there are two other LE models in the lineup that come in at $1175; ; you can see those here.
