The Watch: Czapek traces its name to Franciszek Czapek, who co-founded Patek, Czapek & Cie in Geneva in 1839 before the partnership dissolved and his name faded from horological memory. The revived brand, launched in 2015, has built its reputation on in-house movements and distinctive design rather than trading on history alone.
The Antarctique collection debuted in 2020 as Czapek's entry into the integrated-bracelet sport watch category. The Terre Adélie variant is named for a strip of Antarctic coastline that French explorer Jules Dumont d'Urville claimed in 1840 and named after his wife, Adèle. The "Secret Alloy" dial is produced using a handmade lamé technique by dial specialist Metalem, a process invented 30 years ago and revived for this project. The result is a grey metallic finish with shifting tones that can't be replicated by stamping or sunburst methods. Limited to 99 pieces.
Reference details: 40.5mm steel case, 10.6mm thick, 120 meters water resistant. The SXH5 caliber is entirely Czapek's own, featuring a recycled platinum micro-rotor visible through the caseback, 56-hour power reserve, and finishing that includes seven skeletonized bridges with hand-chamfered inward angles and a free-sprung balance with gold masselotte weights. The integrated bracelet incorporates Czapek's Easy Release system for swapping to rubber straps, and the links form a polished "C" when viewed from above.
This example comes with a factory fresh bracelet direct from Czapek and a black rubber strap cut to a 7" wrist.
Condition: Excellent. One small fleabite on the top left of the case.
Includes: Watch only. Factory fresh bracelet from Czapek and black rubber strap (cut to 7" wrist). No box or papers.
