On the 14th October 2021, I started a thread in which I thanked Mike France for introducing me to Wessex Watches, whom I had wanted to contact with the intention to make a bespoke watch that could be auctioned for an acute NHS hospital. Fast forward to now, Jamie at Wessex Watches has unfortunately been forced into early retirement. It’s very sad, Jamie is a thoroughly decent person and considered as one of the best British watchmakers. Alongside Roger Smith and Mike France, Jamie is a founder member of the Alliance of British Watch & Clock Makers. Jamie’s watches are unique and were made to order. Such were the designs and build quality that only one watch had ever been returned for repair and that was an early commission. It’s a testament to Jamie’s knowledge, skills and enthusiasm. 
 
Despite producing an exquisite design Jamie was unable to fulfil his promise to make a watch for the auction, periods of ill health made it impossible. Still, I will never forget his kindness and the hours we spent in his studio putting the world to rights. 
 
This is where Mike France and the team at Christopher Ward stepped in. They have generously donated a prototype of their C63 Sealander Sapphire Bronze watch. It’s a fantastic watch, an absolute joy. The watch will be raffled with all proceeds donated to my local NHS hospital.  
 
On behalf of the charity (League of Friends of Reading Hospitals) I want acknowledge Mike’s kindness and to wish Jamie all the very best in his retirement. 

PLEASE SEE RAFFLE LINK: https://app.galabid.com/christopherwardwatch

We are first offering tickets to those who are interested in CW watches before going public on other platforms.

Wonderful story, Richard. Thanks for sharing. I hope the auction generates a good amount for the charity.

You are correct, Richard - kindness and generosity (particularly of spirit) does indeed go a very long way.

A heart warming story. Very well done to all involved (that of course includes you!) and best wishes to Jamie.

Generous indeed. A lovely story, Richard. Thank you for sharing it.

Richard D wrote: ↑Wed Aug 24, 2022 4:59 pm On the 14th October 2021, I started a thread in which I thanked Mike France for introducing me to Wessex Watches, whom I had wanted to contact with the intention to make a bespoke watch that could be auctioned for an acute NHS hospital. Fast forward to now, Jamie at Wessex Watches has unfortunately been forced into early retirement. It’s very sad, Jamie is a thoroughly decent person and considered as one of the best British watchmakers. Alongside Roger Smith and Mike France, Jamie is a founder member of the Alliance of British Watch & Clock Makers. Jamie’s watches are unique and were made to order. Such were the designs and build quality that only one watch had ever been returned for repair and that was an early commission. It’s a testament to Jamie’s knowledge, skills and enthusiasm. 
 
Despite producing an exquisite design Jamie was unable to fulfil his promise to make a watch for the auction, periods of ill health made it impossible. Still, I will never forget his kindness and the hours we spent in his studio putting the world to rights. 
 
This is where Mike France and the team at Christopher Ward stepped in. They have generously donated a prototype of their C63 Sealander Sapphire Bronze watch. It’s a fantastic watch, an absolute joy. The watch will be raffled with all proceeds donated to my local NHS hospital.  
 
On behalf of the charity (League of Friends of Reading Hospitals) I want acknowledge Mike’s kindness and to wish Jamie all the very best in his retirement. 

I need a website now, Richard to get a ticket. It will look good on the patio table of my Omaze house.

JAFO wrote: ↑Wed Aug 24, 2022 6:18 pm
I need a website now, Richard to get a ticket. It will look good on the patio table of my Omaze house.

There will be an opportunity to buy a raffle ticket online but, before then I’m having the watch photographed for our website and social media platforms. Interested parties can PM.

Sorry to hear about Jamie's ill health and retirement, Richard.

It's great that CW have helped out by donating a prototype to be raffled off. Good luck with the raffle.

welshlad wrote: ↑Wed Aug 24, 2022 8:03 pm Sorry to hear about Jamie's ill health and retirement, Richard.

It's great that CW have helped out by donating a prototype to be raffled off. Good luck with the raffle.

I’m fortunate that Mike introduced me to Jamie. I don’t think I’ve ever met anyone with his knowledge and skills. He is a huge loss to British watchmaking.

Thank you for your good wishes.

Just received an email to say expect delivery of the C63 Sealander Sapphire Bronze prototype tomorrow. Hopefully it will raise some interest and funds for charity.

Excellent. Please keep us informed.

Amor Vincit Omnia wrote: ↑Tue Aug 30, 2022 10:34 am Excellent. Please keep us informed.

Will do, I plan to publish photographs and details of how to buy a raffle ticket on various social media platforms. Hoping that this forum will allow me a link to be placed here. Otherwise, people can email me and I will provide details.

Thanks.

Sorry to learn of the illness behind the Wessex founder’s retirement. Hope you have a successful fundraiser for your event, Richard. Glad to hear Mike F stepped in with support for you and your cause.

I am so sorry to hear of illness and retirement of such a great artisan, but I hope that the community generosity can unite to raise funds for worthy causes.
Please keep us posted and keep well,
C

I received some good news this morning, the C63 Sealander Sapphire Bronze prototype will be delivered today. Just in time to launch a raffle.

Now with a photograph attached to the original post.