Damn you, Christopher Ward
When I picked up my Explorer last November I tried on the ADs exhibition white Explorer II. While I loved the design and dial of that watch I didn't like the 42mm size. I like the 40mm size of the 16570 but I don't like the dial as much. It would be nice if Rolex released a new 40mm version of the 226570 but I can't see that being any time soon.
With my name on the list for an Explorer I started looking around at alternatives to an Explorer II. I eventually zeroed in on the Christoper Ward C63 Sealander GMT. I had it in my Cart/Basket for several days while I tried to decide if I really wanted it, but eventually I deleted it. Once my Explorer arrived I forgot all about the C63.
Fast forward to January 3rd and Christopher Ward sent an email about their January Sale. And there it was, a C63 Sealander GMT in white, classified as "Nearly New" and with a 20% saving. "Nearly New" is a bit of a vague description but I reasoned that with their 60/60 Guarantee I couldn't go wrong: if there was a scratch or blemish I couldn't live with I could just send it back for a full refund. Order sent.
Three days later the watch arrived via DPD. Wow! Initial impressions are that it is an excellent watch and great value, but I will save more feedback until after I have worn it for a week or two. But, how "nearly new" is "nearly new" I hear you ask? Well, I suppose that they will all be different but mine is totally unmarked apart from two small scratches on one side of the case between the lugs and they are hidden by the bracelet end link. It looks new and it won't be going back.
Returned to the fold after years in the phone wilderness, ironically after buying a Pixel Watch which re-ignited a love of real watches.
Is the second hand a lil bit bent?
I have bought a couple of "nearly new" watches from CW in their 30% discount sales in the last few years. Both of the watches I received I honestly couldn't tell you what made them "nearly new", as they were every bit as good as any of the new watches I've purchased from them.
Getting their watches in this condition & with the benefit of a hefty reduction in price is an absolute winner. I was kinda gutted I'd spent all my pocket money when I got their 24 hour preview email, as there were no beans left in the pot for the white dial GMT that you've got & I'd like.
Enjoy the watch :)
Is the second hand a lil bit bent?
Not in the horizontal plane. Vertical plane too hard to photograph but visual check confirms it is straight. Ah, right, ha ha, you got me, well done. 😂
My Sealander was purchased through the sale and it is to date the best steal I’ve ever made on a watch.
Love mine.
I'd describe them as a "near luxury" watch.
Very close to current entry level luxury watches.