When people think of striking watches with mechanical chimes, they usually imagine six-figure haute horology brands. But Christopher Ward flipped that notion in 2023 with the C1 Bel Canto, offering a true Sonnerie au Passage complication—at a price point no one saw coming.
Now, in 2024, they’ve returned with the C1 Bel Canto Nero: a sleek black-dial version of the award-winning chimer that looks every bit as premium as it sounds.
🕰️ A Complication Once Reserved for the Elite
🔗 View Christopher Ward C1 Bel Canto Nero on Swiss Connection Watches
The Bel Canto features a Sonnerie au Passage mechanism—chiming once every hour on the hour—using a visible hammer and gong displayed right on the dial. It’s as much art as engineering, and it's actually fun to wear.
🔧 Specifications at a Glance
-
Case size: 41mm Grade 5 Titanium
-
Case height: 13.3mm
-
Movement: CW Calibre FS01 (modular base from Sellita SW200-1)
-
Crystal: Sapphire, front and back
-
Dial: Skeletonized with visible hammer/gong on matte black backdrop
-
Strap: Black hybrid leather/rubber strap with CW deployant clasp
-
Water Resistance: 30m
💡 Why It Stands Out
-
The Hourly Chime: You don’t need to activate anything—it rings once every hour like a church bell (but softer and more refined).
-
Dial Theatre: The exposed chiming mechanism on the dial is a rare sight even on six-figure watches.
-
Design Meets Darkness: The Nero edition brings an all-black aesthetic with brushed titanium finishing and a stealthy vibe that contrasts dramatically with the original launch models.
-
Value That Shocked the Industry: Originally launched at under USD $4,000—this is arguably the most affordable chiming watch ever made.
🎯 Who Is It For?
-
Collectors who want independent watchmaking with a twist
-
Fans of visible mechanics and dial animation
-
Buyers looking for high complication without haute horology pricing
📈 The C1 Bel Canto Market Is Heating Up
As the Bel Canto quickly became a cult favorite, early pieces began appreciating on the pre-owned market. The Nero edition, being more recent and limited in production, is especially sought after.
🛒 Check availability now at Swiss Connection Watches
✔️ Pre-owned, excellent condition
✔️ Includes original box & papers
✔️ Ready for shipping worldwide