Quick facts
Description
The C60 Elite Prototype uses the Mk3 Pro 600 42mm case. By the time this case architecture arrived, the Trident design had already been properly settled: the Light‑Catcher case brought cleaner transitions and better wearability, the dial language had been simplified, and the watch felt cohesive rather than overtly tool‑driven. Everything about the Mk3 Pro 600 was about balance and refinement, even at higher depth ratings, and the Elite builds directly on that work rather than trying to re‑invent it.
The Elite name has always been used sparingly by Christopher Ward, reserved for watches that pushed a little further technically or materially. It first appeared in 2009 on the C600 Trident Elite, then again in 2012 on the C11 Titanium Elite — a model that has since become the most desirable variant in that line. After a long gap, the name returned in 2019 with the Mk3 C60 Trident Elite 1000 Limited Edition, a 300‑piece titanium run launched as part of the original Mk3 rollout. That watch sold quickly and set the direction for what followed. In 2020, CW expanded the idea into a full Elite 1000 range: Grade 2 titanium cases, 1000m water resistance, lightweight construction and a deliberately uncompromising presence on the wrist.
This example is a prototype, almost certainly produced to help finalise the non‑limited production run. It keeps the date‑only layout of the original limited edition rather than the later day‑date configuration, and pairs it with a black dial instead of the launch blue. That combination never made it to full production, which is exactly what makes it interesting. It’s recognisably a Mk3 Elite, but slightly out of step with the catalogue - a one‑off that shows the decision‑making process rather than the final answer.
NOTE: the first library picture is of the regular Elite with a day/date. This prototype only has the date.
Learn more about CW’s models.
Condition and performance
The watch is in very good condition with visible but light signs of wear.
Supplied on a used CW black hybrid with titanium buckle.
Comes boxed with cleaning cloth and warranty booklet/card. Manual can be found online. No COSC certificate.
Timegrapher: Approximately +2 seconds per day.
Strap options
Subject to availability, standard unworn CW straps comprise vintage oak leather, hybrid, rubber and tropic.
Please send us a message and we will adjust the price accordingly.
We also offer 10% off our straps and bracelets listed in Accessories purchased alongside a watch. The distressed brown leather straps work particularly well with this watch.
Simply add the accessory to your basket and use STRAP10 or BRAC10 at checkout.
Generally, we list all our bracelets on our Accessories page, but if you don’t see the bracelet for this specific watch, please ask.
Specifications
Questions
If you have any questions about this watch or strap options, or would like to reserve it, just get in touch. We’re specialists in Christopher Ward watches and are always happy to help.
Quick facts
Description
The C60 Elite Prototype uses the Mk3 Pro 600 42mm case. By the time this case architecture arrived, the Trident design had already been properly settled: the Light‑Catcher case brought cleaner transitions and better wearability, the dial language had been simplified, and the watch felt cohesive rather than overtly tool‑driven. Everything about the Mk3 Pro 600 was about balance and refinement, even at higher depth ratings, and the Elite builds directly on that work rather than trying to re‑invent it.
The Elite name has always been used sparingly by Christopher Ward, reserved for watches that pushed a little further technically or materially. It first appeared in 2009 on the C600 Trident Elite, then again in 2012 on the C11 Titanium Elite — a model that has since become the most desirable variant in that line. After a long gap, the name returned in 2019 with the Mk3 C60 Trident Elite 1000 Limited Edition, a 300‑piece titanium run launched as part of the original Mk3 rollout. That watch sold quickly and set the direction for what followed. In 2020, CW expanded the idea into a full Elite 1000 range: Grade 2 titanium cases, 1000m water resistance, lightweight construction and a deliberately uncompromising presence on the wrist.
This example is a prototype, almost certainly produced to help finalise the non‑limited production run. It keeps the date‑only layout of the original limited edition rather than the later day‑date configuration, and pairs it with a black dial instead of the launch blue. That combination never made it to full production, which is exactly what makes it interesting. It’s recognisably a Mk3 Elite, but slightly out of step with the catalogue - a one‑off that shows the decision‑making process rather than the final answer.
NOTE: the first library picture is of the regular Elite with a day/date. This prototype only has the date.
Learn more about CW’s models.
Condition and performance
The watch is in very good condition with visible but light signs of wear.
Supplied on a used CW black hybrid with titanium buckle.
Comes boxed with cleaning cloth and warranty booklet/card. Manual can be found online. No COSC certificate.
Timegrapher: Approximately +2 seconds per day.
Strap options
Subject to availability, standard unworn CW straps comprise vintage oak leather, hybrid, rubber and tropic.
Please send us a message and we will adjust the price accordingly.
We also offer 10% off our straps and bracelets listed in Accessories purchased alongside a watch. The distressed brown leather straps work particularly well with this watch.
Simply add the accessory to your basket and use STRAP10 or BRAC10 at checkout.
Generally, we list all our bracelets on our Accessories page, but if you don’t see the bracelet for this specific watch, please ask.
Specifications
Questions
If you have any questions about this watch or strap options, or would like to reserve it, just get in touch. We’re specialists in Christopher Ward watches and are always happy to help.
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