Mention Pan Am to watch enthusiasts, and the iconic Rolex GMT-Master with its famous red and blue 'Pepsi' bezel immediately comes to mind.
These watches became synonymous with classic models for travelers, created especially for Pan Am pilots to track time across different zones. However, the history of Pan Am is much richer, inspiring Christopher Ward to collaborate with the brand to create the C60 Clipper GMT model. These watches are dedicated to Pan Am's first commercial jet engine flight across the Atlantic, carried out in 1958. The result is a modern GMT model with vintage charm and the airline's signature colors.
When the Christopher Ward C60 Clipper GMT came in for review, I was intrigued. As a regular reader of WatchTested and a fan of the classic Rolex GMT-Master, especially the vintage reference 1675, I'm accustomed to a certain style and history. Combining Pan Am's name with Christopher Ward initially seemed unusual, but ultimately sparked keen interest. The story behind these watches turned out to be more fascinating than I expected.
The History of the Creation of the Christopher Ward C60 Clipper GMT
The Christopher Ward C60 Clipper GMT led me to refresh my knowledge about the history of Pan American World Airways (Pan Am) - one of the most iconic airlines of the golden age of travel. Pan Am played a key role in shaping the modern understanding of global travel.
Particularly unique is the story of how Pan Am became the first commercial airline to launch jet transatlantic flights. It all began on October 26, 1958, when the legendary Boeing 707 'Clipper America' flew from Idlewild Airport (now JFK) in New York to Paris-Le Bourget.
In honor of this historic event, Christopher Ward teamed up with Pan Am to create a special series of the C60 Clipper GMT. The watches are crafted in Pan Am's signature blue, white, and red colors and feature the airline's logo on the dial. Special attention is paid to the date '26' on the date disc, highlighted in Pan Am blue - a reminder of the day of the first flight. The series is limited to 707 pieces - a tribute to the famous aircraft that changed global air travel.
Technical Specifications of the Christopher Ward C60 Clipper GMT
Let's examine the watch details more closely. The case is made of stainless steel using Light-catcher technology, with a diameter of 42 mm, a thickness of 12.45 mm, and a lug-to-lug length of 49.3 mm. Water resistance is 300 meters. The case surface combines vertical and horizontal satin finishing, while polished bevels add shine.
The bezel features a blue aluminum insert with IATA airport codes covering all 24 time zones significant to Pan Am's history.
Special Attention Deserved by the Following Codes:
- DAL (Dallas) - an important Pan Am airport with flights to London and Frankfurt. It was in Dallas that Christopher Ward opened its first showroom in the USA.
- LPB (La Paz, Bolivia) - one of the key South American points for Panagra, Pan Am's transport consortium expanding the airline's influence in South America.
- EYW (Key West) - marked in red, symbolizing the site of Pan Am's first flight in 1927.
Note that an error was made in the prototype for review: the code for Zurich is listed as ZHR instead of the correct ZRH. This typo has been corrected in the production models.
The triangular marker at the '12 o'clock' position indicates the time zone of the United Kingdom - the home of Christopher Ward.
Design and Features of the Dial
The dial is in an eggshell color with applied indices filled with Super-LumiNova Grade X1 BL Old Radium, creating a vintage atmosphere. The date window is located at the '6 o'clock' mark, with black numbers on a white background, and the number '26' highlighted in Pan Am blue - a reminder of the date of the first transatlantic flight.
The inner bezel (rehaut) features a 24-hour scale with red-blue division, symbolizing night and day time, as well as an emotional connection with Pan Am.
Small Details Emphasize the Model's Uniqueness:
- The counterweight of the second hand is shaped like a Clipper airplane in the brand's signature blue, as is the GMT hand.
- The tip of the 24-hour hand and the hour markers have a vintage-style luminescent coating.
- At the top of the dial is the Christopher Ward logo, and at the bottom is the Pan Am signature in blue.
All these elements create a harmonious and informative design without excessive clutter.
Features of the Case Back and Movement
The case back is adorned with embossing featuring the recognizable Pan Am logo - the 'Blue Meatball' (blue globe). The unique number of the limited series is laser-engraved on the screw-down case back.
Inside is the automatic GMT caliber Sellita SW330-2 with a frequency of 28,800 semi-oscillations per hour, 25 jewels, and a 56-hour power reserve. The movement ensures accuracy of about ±20 seconds per day, although in practice, the watch shows higher accuracy.
Bracelet and Strap of the Christopher Ward C60 Clipper GMT
The watch comes with an Oyster-style Bader bracelet - high-quality, comfortable, and functional. The design includes screw-in links, a quick-release system, and tool-free micro-adjustment.
The package also includes a fabric NATO strap made from the same material as Pan Am seatbelts. It features integrated quick-release spring bars, making accessory changes easy.
Personally, I prefer wearing the watch on the bracelet, but the NATO strap is an excellent option for those looking to add a touch of historical authenticity and comfort to the model.
Final Impressions of the Christopher Ward C60 Clipper GMT
After adjusting the bracelet, the watch sits comfortably on an 18.5 cm wrist. The 42 mm case is quite large, and those with smaller wrists should consider the nearly 50 mm lug-to-lug length.
The bezel's 24-click rotation feels precise and smooth, making it a joy to use. The time in two time zones is easily readable thanks to the 24-hour scale on the rehaut.
For most users unfamiliar with airport codes, such a scale adds practicality for everyday use.
Watches for True Pan Am Enthusiasts
The main strength of this model is its story. After initial doubts, I quickly appreciated the watch for its comfort, functionality, and the deep meaning embedded in its design.
Pan Am's story is closely tied to the Rolex GMT-Master, but the new Christopher Ward C60 Clipper GMT offers a fresh perspective and its own narrative, setting it apart from others.
Limited to 707 pieces and priced at £1,450 / €1,895 / $1,995, it will find its admirers among collectors and aviation history enthusiasts.
The delivery set includes a light blue cloth with a 1950s Clipper Jet pattern and a signature blue Pan Am case, complementing the overall concept and emphasizing the model's uniqueness.
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