Christopher Ward is a premium watch brand that combines English design with Swiss watchmaking expertise. Mike France and Peter Ellis, who previously sold the Early Learning Centre, founded the business alongside Chris Ward, a former colleague and clothing importer. The three friends launched the company from a converted chicken shed in Berkshire, as an online-only premium watch brand. Today, the company produces a wide range of watches, with customers in over 100 countries. Its direct-to-consumer model and commitment to transparency have supported their growth, with sales increasing from £13.6m in 2022 to £30.5m in 2024.