Hands-on with the Czapek Antarctique Green Meteor 40.5mm

It Shouldn't Work, But Somehow It Really Does

Independent watchmaking thrives on ingenuity, materials mastery, and aesthetic boldness. Czapek, a brand celebrated for its fusion of traditional craftsmanship and modern execution, pushes the boundaries yet again with the Antarctique Green Meteor. This limited edition timepiece, restricted to just 100 pieces, presents a breathtaking combination of extraterrestrial material and meticulous Swiss finishing.

A Dial from the Cosmos

At the heart of the Green Meteor lies its most striking feature—the dial, crafted from Gibeon meteorite. Sourced from Namibia, this iron-rich meteorite is widely preferred in watchmaking due to its dense, consistent structure, which avoids the presence of unwanted voids or impurities. The natural Widmanstätten patterns unique to meteorite dials ensure that no two watches are ever identical.

While meteorite dials are not new to haute horology, Czapek takes an unconventional approach by applying multiple layers of green lacquer over the naturally striated surface. Rather than using lacquer solely as a protective layer against oxidation, Czapek leverages it as an aesthetic enhancement, creating a dial that appears to glow with an almost supernatural radiance. Unlike blued meteorite dials, which rely on heat treatment, this green variation is achieved entirely through meticulous hand-lacquering and polishing.

Ergonomics and Wearability

While the Green Meteor makes an undeniable statement, it remains an exceptionally wearable piece. Measuring 40.5mm in diameter, 10.6mm in thickness, and 45mm lug-to-lug, the watch is proportioned to fit a wide range of wrists with ease. Its slim case profile ensures a comfortable fit, hugging the wrist without feeling cumbersome.

For reference, on a 6.75-inch (17cm) wrist, the case sits seamlessly, reaffirming Czapek’s dedication to ergonomic design. This balance of presence and comfort makes it an everyday-wearable piece despite its rarity.

The Heart of the Timepiece: SXH5 Micro-Rotor Movement

Inside the Green Meteor ticks Czapek’s in-house SXH5 micro-rotor movement. This caliber is a testament to the brand’s commitment to mechanical artistry, blending traditional haute horology finishing with a contemporary architecture that aligns with the Antarctique’s modern aesthetic.

Notable features of the SXH5 include:

• A full bridge micro-rotor system for efficient winding
• A stunning open-worked design that showcases intricate finishing techniques
• A 60-hour power reserve, ensuring robust daily performance
• A movement layout that mirrors the symmetry and elegance of the dial

Final Thoughts & Availability

With only 100 pieces available worldwide, the Antarctique Green Meteor is both familiar and radically different. It maintains the Antarctique collection’s DNA while introducing an aesthetic previously unseen in high horology. The combination of Gibeon meteorite with green lacquer, the vibrant red seconds hand, and the SXH5 movement all contribute to a timepiece that feels celestial yet entirely grounded in Czapek’s ethos of excellence.

The Green Meteor, along with the full Antarctique collection, is available at collectivehorology.com. As always, feel free to get in touch with your thoughts and questions. And thank you for supporting independent watchmaking.