Christopher Ward’s new C12 Loco elevates the brand’s successful Twelve collection with an architectural marvel that brings haute horlogerie aesthetics to an attainable price point.
Building on the foundation established by the groundbreaking Bel Canto, the C12 Loco combines a dramatically reworked case design with an all-new in-house movement featuring front-facing mechanics that captivate the eye.
Look and Feel
The C12 Loco embraces bold proportions with its 41mm width and substantial 13.7mm thickness—even bulkier than the Twelve X’s 12.3mm profile. Despite these dimensions, the steel case has been extensively resculpted, eliminating crown guards and cutting away much of the mid-case to reveal a newly faceted 12-sided lower section that echoes both the bezel and caseback.
The lugs feature a steeper angle than previous models with an attractive inward undercut along the sides. Box sapphire crystals front and back contribute 3.95mm to the overall thickness while creating a dramatic stage for the mechanical theater within.
The 41mm × 13.7mm case wears comfortably on a 7-inch wrist, though the 30-meter water resistance seems incongruous with the sporty case design and integrated rubber strap—especially considering the thinner Twelve X achieved 100 meters. The quick-release rubber straps match each dial color and provide excellent comfort with their folding clasps, though the dramatic lug angle can make accessing the quick-release tabs challenging when removing straps.
The multi-layered dial draws immediate comparisons to the Girard-Perregaux Free Bridge but establishes its own distinct identity. Available in orange, black, white, and blue, the dial features an offset time display at 12 o’clock consisting of a brushed ring surrounding a sapphire ring with applied hour markers.
This assembly hovers above a recessed matte-finished base with an aperture revealing the underlying gears. The hands mirror the indices in both style and finishing, featuring polished bevels and brushed tops, with everything receiving luminous treatment for low-light visibility.
Vertically brushed sections flank the time display before dropping to a matte-finished lower section where the open balance wheel and escapement become the visual centerpiece. Angular bridges echo the design language of the hands and indices, creating visual cohesion. While the finishing may not rival ultra-luxury brands offering similar horological spectacles, it exceeds expectations for the price point. The constantly moving free-sprung balance not only mesmerizes but also serves as a functional running indicator in the absence of a seconds hand.
Watch Movement Features
Powering the C12 Loco is Christopher Ward’s all-new CW-003 hand-wound movement—the brand’s second in-house caliber. Though based on the renamed CW-001 (formerly SH21), the transformation is so comprehensive that the connection seems almost incidental.
The movement features two barrels delivering an impressive 144 hours of power reserve—a full day more than its predecessor. Operating at 28,800 vph with regulation to 0/+7 seconds per day, the CW-003 showcases hand-finishing by APJ Sàrl, who also worked on the Bel Canto and Twelve X.
The movement architecture employs contrasting black plates with steel bridges and barrels, creating visual drama enhanced by textured surfaces on the bridge tops and recessed segments. Though the movement side lacks the kinetic appeal of the dial, given the absence of a rotor and front-facing balance, it offers plenty of visual interest with its thoughtful detailing.
The C12 Loco continues Christopher Ward’s mission of democratizing haute horlogerie. Offering an original in-house movement with sophisticated dial-side mechanics and architectural appeal for under $5,000 represents exceptional value in a category typically dominated by brands commanding five-figure prices.
Christopher Ward has prepared for strong demand by ensuring immediate availability at launch, with several hundred pieces being produced monthly thereafter. The C12 Loco is priced at $4,595 on rubber strap and $4,825 on bracelet—cementing Christopher Ward’s position as a leader in accessible horological innovation.
