Czapek & Cie unveils a special model and starts a new chapter in its remarkable history.
The Antarctique combines sophisticated style with an unprecedented in- house power movement pushing the boundaries of the popular sport-chic territory further.
Movement design, rare and fine finishing, select materials or intricate case surfaces, and attention to detail, are all key factors that increase a timepiece's value in the eyes of the beholder. They are also at the heart of Czapek's latest model, the Antarctique, says CEO Xavier de Roquemaurel. "The message from our friends and shareholders was clear: To make a watch that exudes a feeling of preciousness, but could also be worn and admired every day...even at the end of the Earth".
The New Czapek & Cie Antarctique - Image Credit: Czapek & Cie
The Antarctique is a 40.5-millimetre three-hander, thin enough to slip comfortably under a cuff, and with a carefully-honed, edgy look. The transparent case back reveals the model's beating heart, the powerful, 30-millimeter SXH5.01 automatic caliber, conceived exclusively by Czapek's concepteur, Daniel Martinez. Special attention was given to both performance and appearance, so the movement's parts are arranged for visual harmony and transparency.
The architecture of the movement is also exceptional. At the root is a free-sprung balance wheel with variable inertia provided by four gold masselotte weights, which enables the highest level of precision tuning for a mechanical watch. The micro-rotor was manufactured in La-Chaux-de-Fonds out of a very special 'fully recycled' 18-kt gold supplied by AGOSI.
It was placed off-centre to allow a plunging view into the mechanism. The SXH5.01 runs at a fast 28,800 vph. The single barrel harbours a flat spring-wound via the traditional Czapek ratchet wheel with five arms. The timepiece has a power reserve of at least fifty-six hours, a truly remarkable feat for a micro-rotor. Water- resistance to 120 meters makes it a natural for the sportive types who would like to keep their watch on while swimming.
The New Czapek & Cie Antarctique - Image Credit: Czapek & Cie
The Antarctique's dial was designed and manufactured by Metalem, a Czapek & Cie cooperation partner, using a unique lamé technique, invented by them 30 years ago and revamped today for this project.
The hand design is reminiscent of a sword, sporty and easy-to-read, as well as the indexes. The 40.5mm stainless steel case is integrated with an original double 'trompe l'oeil' curve, another unconventional design choice making this timepiece unique and exclusive. It is rounded off by an ergonomic brushed integrated bracelet, whose links mesh to form a highly polished "C" for Czapek.
The New Czapek & Cie Antarctique - Image Credit: Czapek & Cie
Stats:
- Case width: 40.5mm
- Thickness: 10.6 mm
- Water resistance: 120m (screwed-down crown)
- Functions: Hours, Minutes & Seconds & Date
- Movement: Calibre SXH5 - Czapek's in house self-winding mechanical movement
- Bracelet: Integrated stainless steel bracelet with Czapek exclusive "Easy Release" system
- Availability: Limited edition of 99 pieces maximum, online subscription only, ending July 15th 2020
- Price: CHF 18'000
