New From Czapek: Watches And Wonders 2023

This year at Watches and Wonders, independent watchmaker Czapek quadrupled down on their Antarctique line, releasing four new iterations of the integrated-bracelet sport watch. The star of the show was the openworked Antarctique Révélation (pictured above). This model introduces their fully in-house caliber SXH7, based on the caliber SXH5 found in prior models. Alongside the Révélation, Czapek introduced the titanium Antarctique Dark Sector, the mother-of-pearl and diamond-ladened Antarctique S ‘Carte Des Nuages’, and the textile-inspired Antarctique S Sashiko in pink and blue. To fully appreciate these new releases, you need to know a bit about Czapek’s history.

Czapek & Cie: Brief History + The Modern Brand

Image Source: monochrome-watches.com

Following the November Uprising – an unsuccessful Polish revolt against Russia (1830-31) – many Polish insurgents ended up in Switzerland. Among these Poles were two familiar names: Franciszek Czapek and Antoni Patek (yes – that Patek). Little did they know at the time, they were both incredibly talented watchmakers. Upon discovering the trade, Czapek and Patek teamed up to found Patek, Czapek & Cie. After six years of collaboration, the partnership dissolved, after which both men found great individual success. However, unlike Antoni Patek, the Czapek name seemed to “disappear mysteriously” in 1869, according to the modern brand. 

In 2012, the Czapek name was revived. Three entrepreneurs gained rights to the Czapek name. They created a library of original Czapek timepieces and offered equity crowdfunding: specifically geared toward watch enthusiasts. That’s right – the modern Czapek brand is owned and operated by fellow watch lovers. This becomes very clear when you see their products. Let’s take a look at Czapek's 2023 novelties. 

Czapek Antarctique Révélation

The Révélation brings a healthy dose of haute horology to Czapek’s sporty Antarctique model. Visible from both sides of the watch is Czapek’s micro-rotor caliber SXH7. Based on the SXH5, this new movement includes some major redesigns, including a complete reversal of the SXH5’s escapement. This eliminated the possibility of center seconds, resulting in a 4:30 small seconds dial. Through the Révélation's exhibition caseback you'll see sandblasted black bridges stacked in parallel: a defining visual characteristic of both the SXH5 and SXH7. Across these bridges – which secure the gear train – sits a micro-rotor made of 100% recycled platinum.

Simply put, the Antarctique Révélation is a masterclass in openworked design. The wearer is shown every step of the timekeeping process: power containment via the open barrel, power distribution via the gear train and escapement, and regulation via the balance. This is particularly remarkable in an integrated-bracelet sports watch with 120 meters of water resistance. Offered on a bracelet or rubber strap, Czapek’s Antarctique Révélation is one of the most compelling watches we saw in Geneva.

Czapek Antarctique Titanium Dark Sector

The Dark Sector leans further into the Antarctique’s sport-oriented philosophy, utilizing a strong and lightweight material in titanium. The watch’s forgiving dimensions and titanium construction result in a ridiculously comfortable wearing experience. You might forget it's on your wrist. . . until you look down. The striking dial uses negative space to display the hour indices. This unique layout gives the monochromatic Dark Sector some visual variety. Speaking of which, you’ll find a red dot minute marker at 12 o’clock. This can be complimented by a fully-red or red-tipped seconds hand; it’s up to the buyer to decide. You also have a ‘full silver’ seconds hand option, as well as your choice of an additional calf leather/rubber strap. As with all Antarctique models, the Dark Sector features a screw-down crown and 120 meters of water resistance.

The example pictured above has a steel bracelet; the titanium version did not arrive prior to Watches and Wonders. Rest assured that every Antarctique Dark Sector will be shipped with a grade 5 titanium bracelet. 

Czapek Antarctique S Carte Des Nuages

Image Source: czapek.com Press Page

The Antarctique S is a slightly smaller variation of the Antarctique: coming in at 38.5mm in diameter. The ‘Carte Des Nuages’ or ‘Map of the Clouds’ model has a beautiful mother of pearl dial divided into 16 pieces by guilloche gridlines. Atop the mother of pearl sit 11 princess cut diamonds as hour indices. At 12 o’clock you’ll see two elongated ‘Antarctique cut’ diamonds. The diamond motif continues onto the bezel, lugs, endlinks, and crown where you’ll find the remaining 0.95 carats. Unfortunately, we did not get hands on with this model, but I’m excited to see it whenever I get the chance. As with any watch featuring mother of pearl and/or diamonds, light interaction is the name of the game. Pictures simply can’t do it justice.

Czapek Antarctique S Sashiko

Image Source: czapek.com Press Page

The Antarctique S Sashiko features a three-dimensional stamped dial inspired by traditional Japanese Sashiko embroidery. It’s offered in light shades of pink and blue: both beautifully complimented by the shadows cast on the stamped pattern. As we were told, the CEO’s wife inspired the Sashiko model, as she has an interest in embroidery and textiles. This beautiful dial variation sits within the 38.5mm Antarctique S case. It displays an excellent contrast of delicate and rugged design elements. Inside the tough steel case sits one of the most elegant dials I’ve ever seen. 

Final Thoughts

Czapek is doing amazing things with their Antarctique line. They’ve landed on a nice versatile silhouette and they’re building out the collection to include a watch for everyone. The Antarctique S models welcome smaller-wristed individuals to the club. Dial variations like the Sashiko appeal to those who appreciate a splash of color. The Révélation scratches the haute horology itch while maintaining everyday wear appeal. These new releases further cement the identity of the Antarctique line. I recommend keeping a close eye on Czapek in the coming years. They're one of the most exciting independents out there, as demonstrated by their 2023 novelties. I’d like to thank Valeria and the entire Czapek team for showing us their creations and granting Everest access to Watches and Wonders.