Christopher Ward Debuts New C65 Dune Aeolian Collection

Christopher Ward is returning to its Dune concept this week with a new eight-watch collection of C63 references called Aeolian. The new field watches build on the original C65 Dune collection released in 2023, and add a decadent dial texture that evokes ever-shifting sand dunes. Intriguing dial textures are something of a new thing for the U.K.-based brand, but it’s a feature that Christopher Ward has leaned into since the introduction of The Twelve, and the most recent generation of the C1 Bel Canto. With the new Dune Aeoloian collection, the brand takes this a step further by drawing direct inspiration from a more organic source. Unique colors and the excellent light-catcher case remain top qualities here, and the new dial textures push things over the top.

Christopher Ward calls the new C65 design a modern twist on the classic field watch, and that goes beyond just the dial texture. There are two elements that best express Christopher Ward’s approach to the field watch, and the first one is the case. What CW calls the light catcher case, for its detailed facets and finishes, is actually beautifully shaped for the wrist. Here, it measures 38mm in diameter, and a hair under 12mm in thickness, but it goes beyond just the numbers. The case is sculpted in a way that trims unnecessary areas, tucking itself neatly into the small, curved package. It feels efficient, it’s visually interesting, and most importantly, it’s amazing ergonomically. 

The more overt star of the show here is the dial, however. The new texture (and the collection's name) is inspired by aeolian sand patterns of the Dune du Pilat in the South of France. The waves are soft yet dramatic, and express a tactile component under the crystal itself. The hour markers, which wouldn’t look out of place on a dive watch, are all applied atop the texture, and feature lume colored to accent the six different colors on offer at launch. Four of those dial colors — Silica grey, Eve blue, Marram green, and White Sand — are available in steel, while two — Dusk brown and Marram green — are offered in bronze cases. 

The Christoper Ward Dune remains a handsome watch that fits a broad range of categories. While the brand labels it a field watch, I’d say it's a bit trickier to nail down within a single genre. What matters here is the interesting dial design and the case itself. Christopher Ward is producing something rarely seen at this price point, and it’s something it has been slowly perfecting in recent years. This is a brand at its best when expressing its own point of view, and these new dials push the Dune collection further toward wholly unique territory.

The steel C65 Dune Aeolian watches make use of the automatic Sellita SW200 movement, which exists in time-only form here, and are priced from $910. The bronze references use a COSC certified Sellita SW200, and are priced from $1,550. The Dune GMT remains untouched, and even gains a new colorway along with the Aeolian nomenclature, both of the dial options are priced from $1,165.