Christopher Ward Teams Up With Mr Jones Watches For Whimsical…

British independent watchmakers Christopher Ward and Mr Jones Watches have joined forces to launch a whimsical limited edition moon phase watch.

The new Celestial watch, limited to 300 pieces, features a dream-like sky-space, complete with gilded silver stars, purple birds and a cheerful cartoon moon gliding above a bed of 3D pastel clouds.

The partnership between the two British brands sees Mr Jones Watches designing the visuals for the watch – in the independent brand’s recognisable quirky style – while Christopher Ward handles the assembly and production.

Housed in Christopher Ward’s new 37mm case, Celestial will be powered by CW’s in-house JJ04 module which mimics the lunar cycle seamlessly. If kept wound, Calibre JJ04’s accuracy could track the moon’s cycle for around 128 years.

The mini diorama of the night sky which will adorn the watch face has been designed by Mr Jones Watches’ lead assembly technician, Bea Watts, following an internal competition where everyone in the business was invited to take part.

“My design celebrates the beauty of the night sky in a playful way. I was inspired by the magical feeling of sitting outside to watch the sunset, and staying there till day transitions into night. The moon begins to appear in the sky, swallows swoop and dive through the air, and in my design, you’re transported into the air too, hovering above a blanket of clouds. It’s a cosy, secret space from which to stargaze; my design captures a feeling of comfort and quiet, and encourages you to appreciate the fleetingness of a certain moment.”
Bea Watts, Lead Assembly Technician, Mr Jones Watches

“Their process is very different to ours. Normally, we’d have markers and hands, but they’re coming from a very visual side. The end result is like a painting – but in a watch.”
William Brackfield, Watch Designer, Christopher Ward