First Look at the Czapek Antarctique Polar Sky and Flying Diamonds Collections – 40.5mm and 38.5mm

Czapek Revisits Aventurine with the Antarctique Collection

Announced at Geneva Watch Days 2024, this latest release brings the shimmering beauty of aventurine dials to one of the most iconic independent watches.

The Antarctique Polar Sky and Flying Diamond collections continue Czapek's tradition of offering unique dial materials, following in the footsteps of previous releases that featured openworked, meteorite, and even osmium dials.

Yet, the Polar Sky collection is not just about novelty—it’s also about returning to a material that's become something of a signature for the brand: aventurine. Czapek has previously employed aventurine in its time-only Quai des Bergues and the Faubourg de Cracovie chronograph collections. And its return in the Polar Sky series underscores the renown Czapek has developed for these dials.

What Makes Aventurine So Special?

Aventurine is often mistaken for a natural stone, but it is, in fact, entirely man-made. This material is a type of translucent glass, infused with minerals—typically copper, gold, or chromic oxides—that create a mesmerizing shimmering effect.

The process of creating aventurine is incredibly challenging, requiring a meticulous approach to ensure a consistent distribution of those minerals throughout the glass. Additionally, the material is prone to cracking during the manufacturing process, requiring precision and expertise.

This difficulty in manufacturing is precisely why aventurine dials are so rare in the world of watchmaking and fine jewelry. However, Czapek has been widely lauded for their ability to produce aventurine dials that are nothing short of breathtaking. The deep, glittering appearance of the Polar Sky dials is a testament to this expertise.

For those interested in the detailed history of Czapek and insights into the modern brand, we recommend listening to our podcast with Xavier de Roquemarel, the CEO of Czapek. You can find our podcast, Openwork, on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Case Sizes: Proportions for Every Wrist

The Polar Sky collection is available in two case sizes (40.5mm and 38.5mm), ensuring a fit for a variety of wrist sizes and preferences. In terms of dimensions, the 40.5mm Antarctique has a lug-to-lug of 45mm and a height of 10.6mm. And the 38.5mm Antarctique S has a lug-to-lug measurement of 43.5mm and a case height of 10.5mm.

The cases and bracelets are forged in stainless steel. They are water-resistant up to 120 meters. And the bracelet's micro-adjustment system further enhances wearability, allowing for a precise fit on the wrist.

Behind the Dial: The SXH5 Micro-Rotor Movement

Powering the Polar Sky collection is Czapek's SXH5 microrotor movement, designed by Czapek and produced exclusively for them by Chronode. The movement's architecture is a modern homage to the finger bridges seen in early Czapek pocket watches. It boasts meticulous finishing with sandblasted black bridges, beveled edges, straight-grained sides, and six hand-chamfered inward angles.

Diamond-set Flying Diamonds Collection

For those seeking even more shine with their aventurine dial, Czapek offers the Antarctique Flying Diamonds collection. Available in both 40.5mm and 38.5mm case sizes, the watches feature “Antarctique cut” diamond indices and offer optional diamond settings on the case and bracelet.

The Flying Diamonds collection is highly limited and available by inquiry only.

Polar Sky: Limited Availability

For its part, the "standard" Polar Sky collection is itself a limited edition. The 40.5mm version will be produced in 99 pieces, while the 38.5mm Antarctique S will have just 77 pieces available.

Of course, we could carry on and wax poetic about these brooding yet glistening dials, but really, these are the rare watches that simply speak for themselves.

The Czapek Antarctique Polar Sky collection is available at collectivehorology.com. The Flying Diamonds is also available from Collective by inquiry. Feel free to get in touch with your thoughts and questions. And thank you for supporting independent watchmaking.