Czapek releases a new version of their popular Antarctique model for Italian retailer GMT Great Masters of Time.
Press Release information with commentary in italics.
New: Czapek Antarctique GMT Great Masters of Time
The Czapek Antarctique GMT Great Masters of Time will retail at CHF 22,000. Limited Edition of 30 pieces, available exclusively at TMT Milano’s boutique on Via della Spiga, 25.
Commentary
The name may be a bit misleading…this not a GMT version of the Antarctique. The collection is still a basic three hander with H/M/S. But this is a collaboration with the Italian high-end independent store called GMT Masters of Time.
The Antarctique model chosen is the 40.5mm steel cased version, not the smaller 38.5mm one. And this is the exact same watch as we reviewed at launch. The watch is delivered with the beautiful Antarctique steel bracelet, and an additional rubber or calf strap.
The same SXH5 movement adorns the watch. Still a beauty to look at.
What is special of this novelty is the dial. Made by Metalem, the dial has a matte grainy texture which is rather fetching. The texture is obtained by stamping the center part of the dial, leaving the minute chapter ring to be polished before the appliqué markers are inserted. The colour is 4N gold, almost champagne in its hue.
Release details
Czapek & Cie, the Geneva-based independent watchmaker, is proud to announce the release of a highly exclusive limited edition of its iconic Antarctique model. Created in partnership with GMT Great Masters of Time, Italy’s pioneer of high-end independent watchmaking, it features a unique grainy dial in a 4N gold hue, set to captivate collectors and horology enthusiasts alike. Presented in avant-première at the Milano Watch Week event, only 30 pieces of this limited edition will be available, exclusively through GMT Milano’s boutique on Via della Spiga, 25.
The limited edition Antarctique for GMT Great Masters of Time is a testament to Czapek’s dedication to superior watchmaking and GMT Milano’s unique position as a trailblazer in the Italian luxury watch market.
The watch features the Antarctique signature 40.5mm case in stainless steel, while its standout feature is its dial. Created by the long-time Czapek partner and renowned Swiss dial maker Metalem, the dial boasts a distinctive grainy matte texture made by stamping at the centre, and circular satin-finish under the minute track, both with 4N gold plating achieved by galvanic treatment.
A defining element of this limited edition is the use of 4N gold, that has become synonymous with GMT Milano’s exclusive editions. The almost champagne, or better, Franciacorta-colored hue of the 4N gold is not just a design choice but a symbol rooted in the history of GMT Milano. This subtle yet striking tone has been consistently featured in all of GMT Milano’s limited editions, underscoring the family-owned company’s commitment to maintaining a connection with its heritage.
At the heart of this timepiece is Czapek’s in-house SXH5 movement, state-of-the-art automatic caliber. It features a refined micro-rotor architecture, allowing a plunging view on the mechanism, a power reserve of up to 60 hours and exceptional finishing visible through the sapphire case back.
“We are particularly proud of this collaboration with GMT Milano, as it holds a special personal significance for me,” said Xavier de Roquemaurel, CEO of Czapek & Cie. “Having lived and worked in Italy for a renowned luxury menswear maison, I have a deep appreciation for Italian design and taste. This partnership represents a shared mission between two independent entities committed to promoting haute horlogerie. GMT Great Masters of Time is a family-owned business, and at Czapek, our shareholders are like family—our brand was crowdfunded, and we now have over 200 shareholders, many of whom are private individuals and watch aficionados. We are thrilled to count on the GMT Milano team as both partners and members of our ‘rare people’ family.”
“We have been at the forefront of high-end independent watchmaking for 20 years,” said Jacopo Corvo, owner of GMT Great Masters of Time, alongside his brother Mattia. “This is a niche that has consistently pushed the boundaries of creativity and craftsmanship. Our discussions about this collaboration with Czapek began some time ago. This timepiece not only builds on the success of the Antarctique model, which has been a standout for Czapek since its launch, but also pays homage to the lasting connection between Swiss precision and Italian elegance. We have a deep connection to 4N gold, a colour that is significant to our heritage and one we use in every limited edition we produce. By removing the date, we aimed to give more prominence to the grainy matte texture and to highlight this beautiful gold tone, which has been almost forgotten. As natives of Milan, we are especially proud and honoured to unveil this special edition during Milano Watch Week, a prestigious event that underscores the city’s global reputation for style and innovation.”
Unveiled at the Milano Watch Week event in the iconic Terrazza Martini, this limited edition of 30 pieces will be available exclusively at GMT Great Masters of Time, located on Via della Spiga 25, Milan’s luxury shopping destination. Deliveries are scheduled to begin at the end of 2024.
