First Look at the Czapek Faubourg de Cracovie Crossroads Collection
Sport and Elegance Combine
Czapek has extended the Faubourg de Cracovie collection with the Crossroads, chronographs that balance the brand's signature aesthetics and finishing with an automotive nod. The inclusion of a tachymeter scale adds a functional, racing-inspired element to the collection while allowing Czapek to incorporate traditional techniques such as guillochage in a more unexpected and contemporary way.
Understanding the Tachymeter
The tachymeter scale, which runs around the perimeter of the dial, is a feature specifically associated with sports chronographs, and particularly with motorsport. It allows the wearer to measure speed over a known distance by timing how long it takes to cover that distance using the chronograph function. The result can be read off the tachymeter scale.
Originally developed in the early 20th century, tachymeters were an essential tool for racing drivers and aviators, providing accurate speed calculations in an era before digital instruments. Today, while GPS and other modern technology provide more practical solutions, the tachymeter remains a beloved complication for enthusiasts who appreciate its connection to the world of racing and classic mechanical timekeeping. While it may not be practical for day-to-day use on highways, the tachymeter is perfect for those who enjoy testing it on winding country roads or vintage car rallies.
Redesigned Dial with New Guilloché Pattern
A key feature of the Faubourg de Cracovie Crossroads is its redesigned dial, which reflects the Maison’s emphasis on meticulous craftsmanship. The integration of the tachymeter into the dial required reducing the main dial area to make room for the scale without disrupting the balance of the design. This led to a proportional reduction of the chronograph sub-dials, ensuring a cohesive look. To further enhance the design, a more prominent flange was introduced, helping the sub-dials maintain their presence.
Czapek worked closely with Metalem, their dial-making partner, to develop a new guilloché pattern specifically for the Crossroads. This pattern is a modern reinterpretation of the ‘Double Soleil’ guilloché seen in the Quai des Bergues model, but it has been updated with straighter, wider lines that are more deeply etched. This change gives the dial a sportier, more dynamic appearance. The pattern has a subtle resemblance to tire treads, reinforcing the tachymeter’s racing heritage.
The dial comes in two options:
- Deep Blue – Features contrasting white sub-dials, offering a clean and classic look
- Secret Alloy – A limited-edition dial made from a proprietary blend of precious metals, including platinum, gold, silver, palladium, and other metals. This special alloy was chosen for its strength and its ability to create intense light reflections after polishing. The Secret Alloy dial will be produced in a limited edition of 50 pieces
Both dials feature Czapek’s signature attention to detail and are designed to enhance legibility while showcasing the brand’s mastery of traditional techniques.
Powering the Watch: Calibre SXH3
The Faubourg de Cracovie Crossroads is driven by the Calibre SXH3, an automatic chronograph movement that was originally developed by Vaucher Manufacture Fleurier in 2018. This integrated chronograph movement is known for its precision and reliability, making it ideal for a high-performance watch like the Faubourg de Cracovie.
Key features of the Calibre SXH3 include:
- Column Wheel: This system ensures smooth, precise chronograph operation, with crisp feedback felt through the pushers.
- Vertical Clutch: Allows for the chronograph to start and stop without any lag or jumping of the second hand, ensuring accuracy during timing.
- Linear Zero-Reset Hammer: Ensures that all chronograph hands reset precisely to zero with no misalignment.
The movement operates at a high frequency of 5Hz, or 36,000 vibrations per hour, allowing for time measurements accurate to 1/10th of a second. This high frequency also contributes to the movement’s robustness and stability, ensuring that it performs reliably under various conditions.
The movement's aesthetics are as impressive as its technical features. The anthracite-colored bridges are sandblasted and diamond-polished, providing a striking contrast with the 18-carat pink gold rotor. This combination of fine finishes highlights the level of craftsmanship that goes into each Czapek timepiece.
Case & Strap Options
The Faubourg de Cracovie Crossroads comes in a 41.5mm steel case, offering a versatile size that works well for a range of wrist sizes. The case design, with its hollowed-out lugs and integrated pushers, maintains the collection’s signature modern-classic look.
Case Dimensions:
- Diameter: 41.5mm
- Lug to Lug: 47mm
- Height: 13.8mm
- Lug Width: 22mm
The watch is available with two strap options:
- Alligator Leather Strap – For a more formal, elegant look
- Alcantara Strap – A sportier, more casual option that complements the racing theme of the watch
Availability & Pricing
The Faubourg de Cracovie Crossroads will be available at collectivehorology.com. Deliveries are expected to begin in May 2025. The Secret Alloy version will be limited to just 50 pieces, while the Deep Blue version will be part of Czapek’s regular production. As always, feel free to get in touch with your thoughts and questions. And thank you for supporting independent watchmaking.