Design and Build Quality: Rolex Explorer 16570 Polar vs. Christopher Ward C63 Sealander GMT Polar
Case Design:
- Rolex Explorer 16570 Polar: This iconic case features a 40mm diameter (wears slightly smaller due to lug design) with a robust Oyster case construction known for its durability and water resistance. The brushed finish gives it a classic, tool-watch aesthetic.
- Christopher Ward C63 Sealander GMT Polar: This modern case measures 39mm with a slimmer profile and curved case back for improved comfort on various wrist sizes. The case features a mix of polished and brushed finishes, offering a more contemporary look.
Bezel:
- Rolex Explorer 16570 Polar: The fixed 24-hour bezel features a black anodized aluminum construction with engraved numerals. It offers a simple and functional design.
- Christopher Ward C63 Sealander GMT Polar: The slimmer, fixed 24-hour bezel utilizes a ceramic material for scratch resistance. The numerals have a cleaner, painted look.
Dial:
- Rolex Explorer 16570 Polar: The clean white dial features black Chromalight hour markers with a prominent lume application for exceptional night-time legibility. Rolex's signature Mercedes hands with white gold lume complete the classic Explorer look.
- Christopher Ward C63 Sealander GMT Polar: The white dial also features black applied hour markers with Super-Luminova BGW9 lume for nighttime visibility. However, the hands have a more contemporary pointed design with an orange GMT hand.
Crystal:
- Rolex Explorer 16570 Polar: A flat sapphire crystal offers excellent scratch resistance but can create slightly more glare at certain angles.
- Christopher Ward C63 Sealander GMT Polar: Another flat sapphire crystal provides similar scratch resistance.
Build Quality:
- Both watches are known for their excellent build quality. Rolex utilizes high-grade 904L stainless steel for superior corrosion resistance. Christopher Ward employs 316L stainless steel, a widely used and reliable material.
Overall Impression:
- Rolex Explorer 16570 Polar: This watch exudes a timeless tool-watch aesthetic with a robust build and classic design elements. The Rolex name adds a touch of prestige.
- Christopher Ward C63 Sealander GMT Polar: This watch offers a modern interpretation of the explorer style with a focus on comfort and wearability. It utilizes high-quality materials and boasts a clean, contemporary design.
Movements: Rolex Explorer 16570 Polar vs. Christopher Ward C63 Sealander GMT Polar
The movement is the heart of a watch, powering its functions and accuracy. Here's a closer look at the movements inside these two contenders:
Rolex Explorer 16570 Polar:
- Caliber: Rolex 3185 (in-house manufactured)
- Features:
- Self-winding automatic movement
- Chronometer-certified for superior accuracy (+/- 2 seconds per day)
- 48-hour power reserve
- Independent GMT hand (true GMT function) - allows setting the GMT hand separately without affecting the local time
- Date function with quickset at 3 o'clock position
Strengths:
- In-house movement: Rolex is renowned for its robust and reliable in-house calibers. The 3185 is known for its excellent accuracy and longevity.
- Chronometer certification: This independent verification guarantees exceptional timekeeping performance.
- True GMT function: Offers greater flexibility for frequent travelers.
Weaknesses:
- Limited service options: Due to Rolex's strict servicing policies, authorized service centers might be the only option, potentially leading to higher costs.
Christopher Ward C63 Sealander GMT Polar:
- Caliber: Sellita SW3302 (Swiss-made)
- Features:
- Self-winding automatic movement
- 56-hour power reserve
- GMT hand with independent setting
- Date function with quickset at 6 o'clock position
Strengths:
- Reliable movement: The Sellita SW3302 is a widely used and proven workhorse movement known for its dependability and affordability.
- Longer power reserve: Offers an extra 8 hours of running time compared to the Rolex.
- Wider availability of service options: Due to the commonality of the Sellita movement, authorized watchmakers can potentially service it, offering potentially lower service costs.
Weaknesses:
- Not an in-house movement: While robust, it lacks the prestige associated with an in-house caliber.
- "Independent setting" GMT function: While it allows setting the GMT hand independently, it requires stopping the watch to ensure local time accuracy.
Choosing Between the Movements:
The choice depends on your priorities:
- For ultimate accuracy and prestige: The Rolex 3185 with its chronometer certification and in-house pedigree might be the better choice.
- For value and practicality: The Sellita SW3302 offers a reliable and longer power reserve option with potentially lower service costs.
The key differences between the Rolex Explorer 16570 Polar and the Christopher Ward C63 Sealander GMT Polar
Movement:
- The Rolex Explorer 16570 Polar features a Rolex-manufactured caliber 3185, renowned for its robustness and accuracy. It boasts chronometer certification, guaranteeing exceptional timekeeping performance.
- The Christopher Ward C63 Sealander GMT Polar utilizes a Sellita SW3302 movement, a reliable and widely-used option in the industry. While it lacks the prestige of an in-house movement, it offers a longer power reserve (56 hours vs. 48 hours for the Rolex) and potentially lower service costs due to its wider availability among authorized watchmakers.
Water Resistance:
- The Rolex Explorer 16570 Polar offers 100 meters (10 ATM) of water resistance, making it suitable for swimming and recreational diving.
- The Christopher Ward C63 Sealander GMT Polar boasts a higher water resistance rating of 150 meters (15 ATM), allowing for deeper dives.
Bracelet:
- The Rolex Explorer 16570 Polar comes with the iconic Oyster bracelet, a three-piece link design known for its durability and comfortable wear. It features a clasp with a safety lock for added security.
- The Christopher Ward C63 Sealander GMT Polar sports a modern bracelet with a quick-release system, allowing for easy swapping of straps or bracelets without any tools.
Price:
- The Rolex Explorer 16570 Polar, due to its brand name, heritage, and in-house movement, commands a significantly higher price tag.
- The Christopher Ward C63 Sealander GMT Polar offers a more affordable option, making it an attractive choice for value-conscious watch enthusiasts.
GMT Function:
- The Rolex Explorer 16570 Polar boasts a true GMT function, which allows you to independently set the GMT hand to a different time zone without affecting the local timekeeping. This is particularly useful for frequent travelers.
- The Christopher Ward C63 Sealander GMT Polar also features an independent GMT hand, but setting it requires stopping the watch to ensure local time accuracy.
Ultimately, the choice between these two watches depends on your priorities. If brand prestige, heritage, and exceptional timekeeping are paramount, the Rolex Explorer 16570 Polar might be worth the investment. If you value affordability, modern features, and a reliable movement, the Christopher Ward C63 Sealander GMT Polar represents a compelling option.
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