Christopher Ward and Studio Underd0g have created the Alliance 02, a modern pocket watch combining Christopher Ward’s Light-catcher case design with Studio Underd0g’s fully luminous dial architecture. Limited to 100 pieces at £2,995, all profits go directly to the Alliance of British Watch and Clock Makers, an organization supporting the British watchmaking community.
The 44mm stainless steel case applies Christopher Ward’s Light-catcher philosophy, originally inspired by Aston Martin DB9 lines, to pocket watch proportions. An oversized crown at 12 o’clock sits between extended lugs formed as one piece and secured via hidden screws. Polished and brushed surfaces create contrast across the case, while a domed sapphire crystal pairs with a sapphire exhibition caseback.
Studio Underd0g’s influence appears through a two-layer dial construction. Seven layers of custom Super-LumiNova pigment are applied to the brass base, graduating from off-white to peachy orange, creating full dial luminescence identical to the 02SERIES field watches. A 1.4mm sapphire disc floats above carrying a printed minute track, sans-serif Roman numerals and power reserve indicator at 6 o’clock. The floating effect casts shadows, making details stand out against the luminous base.
The CW-001 hand-wound calibre powers the watch, formerly known as SH21. The COSC-certified movement stores 120 hours of power reserve through twin mainspring barrels. Abstract-shaped bridges with radial Côtes de Genève decoration appear through the caseback. The power reserve subdial makes winding ceremonial, appropriate for a pocket watch requiring daily interaction.
A brown braided leather strap threads through the extended lugs, closing with a stainless steel stud. Swapping straps is easy for outfit coordination.
The Alliance 02 is available first to Alliance of British Watch and Clock Makers members who pre-register at britishwatchmakers.com, then releases December 11 at 3pm GMT through Christopher Ward. The collaboration follows Studio Underd0g’s recent tri-watch partnership with Fears, demonstrating the brand’s commitment to pushing collaborators beyond their comfort zones into unconventional territory.
