While we still think of Czapek & Cie. as a young brand, they’ve been around for over a decade now and next year will mark the 10th anniversary of the launch of their first collection. And it couldn’t come at a better time for the brand because throughout 2024 they have seen a surge in popularity and buzz as collectors flock to their incredibly stylish and distinctive designs while mainstream brands struggle in the current market. Highlighting their unique style are watches like the new Antarctique Purple Storm.
As evidence of Czapek’s immense appeal, the Purple Storm was launched yesterday in a limited edition of 18 pieces and at time of writing only 4 pieces remain unsold. Which is pretty incredible considering that they’re priced at CHF 25,000 (approx. £22,500) – not what the majority of us would call an impulse buy. However, if you are in a position to casually drop that kind of cash, I totally understand why you would here because the Antarctique Purple Storm is 100% the kind of watch you can fall in love with at first sight.
Jumping straight to the dial it’s a gorgeous violet colour that shifts and weaves its way through shades of purple and black. Like a drop of iridescent purple ink in a pool of oil. It’s slick, sleek and shimmery. Captivating and mesmerising. The dial is produced by Swiss dial specialists Metalem via an artist they work with who specialises in hand-varnished dials – the same artist behind previous sell out designs like the Antarctique Orion Nebula edition. Each dial in the Purple Storm limited edition series is completely unique and is designed to be evocative of a storm cloud seen through a purple lens.
Beyond the stunning new dial, this is the Antarctique as we already know it. It has a 40.5mm steel case with an integrated bracelet design that provides an industrial-adjacent, sporty backdrop to the artistic dial. An interesting contrast that people seem to love. Powering the piece is the in-house calibre SXH5, an automatic movement with a 60-hour power reserve provided by a recycled platinum micro-rotor.
Give Czapek another decade on their current trajectory and in 10 years’ time we could well be talking about them as one of the most influential brands of the modern watchmaking era.
Price and Specs:
More details at Czapek.
