Our previous looks at the latest Chr. Ward models have been blue, through and through.  And while that’s my favorite color, I realize others might prefer something a bit warmer in hue.  If so, then their latest pre-order is going to be right up your alley.

The model in question is their C7 Mk II Italian Racing Red.  This is of course based off of their C7, and features a particular shade of red that is associated with Italian racing teams.  Aside from that bold color, this is what you’ll get from this 300-piece limited edition watch:

• 42mm stainless steel case (10.7mm thick)
• Ronda 3540.D quartz chronograph movement; 1/10 second split timing
• 100 meter water resistance rating
• Sapphire crystal (AR-coated)
• “Driving glove” style leather strap

Overall, I do like the style of the watch – as with most CW designs, it’s cleanly executed and not overly cluttered (provided tachymeter scales don’t bother you); additionally, the leather strap they’ve selected pairs nicely with the red, and furthers the automotive theme.

The one part I’m not as big a fan of is the fact that we’ve got a quartz movement here.  I realize this is very likely due to the fact of wanting to keep costs down (this one comes in at $550), but I’ve come to associate some very nice automatics with the CW brand, and for a LE, a quartz seems an incongruous choice.

Which isn’t to say it’s not a good movement – I’m sure it is.  It’s just something that would personally give me a little bit of pause for purchasing it – I say if you’re going limited-edition, let’s make it stand out as much as you can.  Then again, that’s just my take on it – let us know in the comments what you think about movement selection for LE watches.