Charles Frodsham Watch Review

This year, the company decided to launch a watch based on Daniels' double impulse escapement movement measuring 42mm with small curved lugs which makes the watch wearable. Only ten to twelve watches will be produced annually so not too different from the production figures of the esteemed and highly regarded watch maker in the Isle of Man, Roger W. Smith.  

I felt that the watch completely filled up my wrist as shown on the photo. I would have preferred a slightly smaller watch size as I feel a dress watch should not fill up the wearer's wrist. The edges of the lugs were rather sharp while the grooves of the crown were not smooth enough when winding.  I mentioned these observations to Philip and Richard who were most receptive to my observations. The movement was sublime and from the case back, one can conclude that a smaller case size would have been almost impossible. Perhaps the biggest criticism of the watch is its price that starts at £60,000 (excluding tax) for the stainless steel version to £65,500 for the yellow gold model which will be produced in 22 carat gold. Yes, this is a bargain next to a RW Smith but Mr Smith is an established and renowned watchmaker. Stiff competition is likely to come from Kari Voutlainen's Vingt 8, Rexhep Rexhepi's Chronometre Contemporain, Romain Gauthier's Insight Micro Rotor, Credor's Eichi II and the Gronefeld's Remontoire.  It would take a very brave and shrewd collector in my opinion to opt for the Charles Frodsham over any of these other brands where movement construction and finishing are exemplary.  Please also note that Charles Frodsham watches can only be bought and serviced at its St James shop.  Of course, if one already owns all the above mentioned watches and appreciates exclusitivity, a Charles Frodsham watch would definitely be a welcome addition.