Czapek

[enjoythemusic]

Originally Posted by bibbi

Thank you ETM, this pairing simply cannot be unseen. I appreciate the brand for the customization options they give to customers and the extra mile they go.

BTW someone mentioned an orange rubber strap - was it just a loose idea or is it available somewhere out of their web page?

Agree, Czapek feels more 'personal', she is yours. I'm LOVING this 'new' modern direction for timepiece manufacturers and lovers alike. As for ORANGE STRAP pretty please email them and let them know your interest. Perhaps if we can get enough orange strap requests...

I'd shove you all aside to be first in line for an ORANGE STRAP.
There, I admitted it.

Kidding, not kidding.

[enjoythemusic]

Originally Posted by mbalmz

just chiming in here to say I'm about to put my pre-order in for a 38.5mm version antarctique... just waiting for them to take my money! sounds like delivery won't be for 11 months or so but that doesn't seem too bad nowadays.

super excited!

Congrats

Originally Posted by Bug04

Without entering in comparisons with other brands, to me this Antarctique dial looks sand and not salmon. Not better or worse, just different from salmon

Agreed it's Sand, see it on our car's footwell all the time.

[thewatchidiot]

BTW someone mentioned an orange rubber strap - was it just a loose idea or is it available somewhere out of their web page?[/QUOTE]


When communicating with Xavier on an orange strap, I got this msg. So it’s important that we express interest.

Please remember Xavier is out for heart surgery so don’t send emails to him. Pierre is taking over during Xavier’s leave.

[bibbi]

Do you think it’d be a good idea to openly express that we are a bunch of enthusiasts from TRF sharing the same idea (i.e. an orange strap)?

[thewatchidiot]

Originally Posted by bibbi

Do you think it’d be a good idea to openly express that we are a bunch of enthusiasts from TRF sharing the same idea (i.e. an orange strap)?

I do think that’s smart. I wonder if there’s a way we could collect interest and guarantee x number will be bought. Or maybe orange is popular enough for inclusion as a permanent color

[enjoythemusic]

Originally Posted by bibbi

Do you think it’d be a good idea to openly express that we are a bunch of enthusiasts from TRF sharing the same idea (i.e. an orange strap)?

Yes, and I have. Send an email :)

Thx TheWatchIdiot... and we wish him a fast recovery.

Originally Posted by thewatchidiot

I do think that’s smart. I wonder if there’s a way we could collect interest and guarantee x number will be bought. Or maybe orange is popular enough for inclusion as a permanent color

I'm OK with that, yet those not on TRF with green dial and orange seconds hand should also be notified of this possibility imho. They can easily float the idea to all owners and see what comes back. I have faith in the color orange.

[Bug04]

I think orange straps may wear really great with many dial colors. Of course it depends on actual color tone, but conceptually orange is very sporty and versatile, fitting with grays, blacks, blues, whites, greens, etc. I have some doubts on possible red - orange crashes on versions showing a red inked seconds hand (head or full body) …

[greentimgreen]

Originally Posted by thewatchidiot

I do think that’s smart. I wonder if there’s a way we could collect interest and guarantee x number will be bought. Or maybe orange is popular enough for inclusion as a permanent color

+1 and please count me in for one (to pair with my Monochrome when it lands)


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[mongrelnomoad]

I’d be interested in a red strap.

[thewatchidiot]

Originally Posted by Bug04

I think orange straps may wear really great with many dial colors. Of course it depends on actual color tone, but conceptually orange is very sporty and versatile, fitting with grays, blacks, blues, whites, greens, etc. I have some doubts on possible red - orange crashes on versions showing a red inked seconds hand (head or full body) …

That’s a good point. I think when mine is serviced next, I’ll see if red can be changed for orange.

[TimeandTempus]

Thanks for sharing that video... enjoyed it, both dials are stunning :-)

[sgrossma]

I'm feeling a bit torn. I just recently put down a deposit for an Antarctique after having been intrigued by Czapek for a few months. I first learned about the brand b/c of the Fratello release. It looked nice (especially the movement), but at the time I had never heard of the brand before so was definitely not ready to consider a purchase. I also am not very into green dials even though it looked good as a whole.

Recently, after seeing pictures of the upcoming Salmon/Sand, I thought this might be the one so even though it was sold out, I continued calling every AD and finally was lucky enough to get an allocation for it. But the more I think, the more I am now unsure. As mentioned in the video someone recently posted, it is hard not to notice that it resembles a Tissot PRX. While Czapek only makes around 250 watches a year, it seems a lot of that demand has been fulfilled and fueled by limited edition releases like the Fratello and Monochrome. And a few passionate collectors getting multiples. This thread has been at the top for a few weeks, but a lot of the posts are from the same few people contributing, as well. Others mention that at this point in time it seems like it could be a one hit wonder, with them only focusing on one line at the moment.

There is no question that the movement is absolutely drop dead and like no other (it is basically what sold me). But as far as the rest of the watch, I can't decide if I am starting to get caught up in the hype/demand (or worrying too much about it) or if I actually love the watch (beyond the movement). And as such I am no longer sure if I want to spend 24k to figure it out later. On the one hand it feels like a lot of money for the watch. On the other hand it doesn't.

I am not sure the purpose of this post, just expressing some thoughts and reservations that I am currently having.

[jcarm981]

Originally Posted by sgrossma

I'm feeling a bit torn. I just recently put down a deposit for an Antarctique after having been intrigued by Czapek for a few months. I first learned about the brand b/c of the Fratello release. It looked nice (especially the movement), but at the time I had never heard of the brand before so was definitely not ready to consider a purchase. I also am not very into green dials even though it looked good as a whole.

Recently, after seeing pictures of the upcoming Salmon/Sand, I thought this might be the one so even though it was sold out, I continued calling every AD and finally was lucky enough to get an allocation for it. But the more I think, the more I am now unsure. As mentioned in the video someone recently posted, it is hard not to notice that it resembles a Tissot PRX. While Czapek only makes around 250 watches a year, it seems a lot of that demand has been fulfilled and fueled by limited edition releases like the Fratello and Monochrome. And a few passionate collectors getting multiples. This thread has been at the top for a few weeks, but a lot of the posts are from the same few people contributing, as well. Others mention that at this point in time it seems like it could be a one hit wonder, with them only focusing on one line at the moment.

There is no question that the movement is absolutely drop dead and like no other (it is basically what sold me). But as far as the rest of the watch, I can't decide if I am starting to get caught up in the hype/demand (or worrying too much about it) or if I actually love the watch (beyond the movement). And as such I am no longer sure if I want to spend 24k to figure it out later. On the one hand it feels like a lot of money for the watch. On the other hand it doesn't.

I am not sure the purpose of this post, just expressing some thoughts and reservations that I am currently having.

Isn’t the deposit refundable? I have to think they can easily allocate that piece (and it technically still hasn’t been “announced / released” right?) should you want to go a different direction.

[sgrossma]

Yes, it is refundable, fortunately. I may end up pulling the deposit, but I am certainly going to wait until it is unveiled at least, to see the additional pictures and information. At this point, I feel like I am 50/50 and could go either way!

[uscmatt99]

Originally Posted by sgrossma

Yes, it is refundable, fortunately. I may end up pulling the deposit, but I am certainly going to wait until it is unveiled at least, to see the additional pictures and information. At this point, I feel like I am 50/50 and could go either way!

Sounds to me like this is more hype-related desire than true love for the timepiece at this point, subject to change of course. I've become very methodical about my choices over the years, in part because I never sell/flip. I decided to purchase my Czapek pretty early on knowing full well that no matter how it was accepted by collectors at large, I would love wearing it. To my eye and on my wrist it has excellent proportions, it has great water resistance, and can easily swap from bracelet to rubber or leather. Out of my small collection, it's the best "only watch" I could live with.

As a side note it bugged me as well when Tissot snagged many of the design features from the dial side of the Antarctique.

[bibbi]

Well, if the „issue”, aside from the remark on Tissot PRX, is the debate on whether there is huge demand for this watch outside of people from this forum, then we probably cannot assist you with a helping hand. This would drive us to the discussion on the secondary market value of Czapeks, which we vividly agreed not to follow in this thread.

Apart from the above, it is great that you’ve managed to secure one of the Sand pieces.

[enjoythemusic]

Originally Posted by sgrossma

Yes, it is refundable, fortunately. I may end up pulling the deposit, but I am certainly going to wait until it is unveiled at least, to see the additional pictures and information. At this point, I feel like I am 50/50 and could go either way!

Am glad demand is like it is today. Still a good balance of supply versus demand. Too much demand, too fast, is not always a good thing. Love the design, features, usability, and of course the movement. Also consider it a show of appreciation for their watchmakers, designers, etc.

As long as you'll love it, keep it, and wear it.

Am glad to see this thread got back on-topic

[mongrelnomoad]

Originally Posted by sgrossma

I'm feeling a bit torn. I just recently put down a deposit for an Antarctique after having been intrigued by Czapek for a few months. I first learned about the brand b/c of the Fratello release. It looked nice (especially the movement), but at the time I had never heard of the brand before so was definitely not ready to consider a purchase. I also am not very into green dials even though it looked good as a whole.

Recently, after seeing pictures of the upcoming Salmon/Sand, I thought this might be the one so even though it was sold out, I continued calling every AD and finally was lucky enough to get an allocation for it. But the more I think, the more I am now unsure. As mentioned in the video someone recently posted, it is hard not to notice that it resembles a Tissot PRX. While Czapek only makes around 250 watches a year, it seems a lot of that demand has been fulfilled and fueled by limited edition releases like the Fratello and Monochrome. And a few passionate collectors getting multiples. This thread has been at the top for a few weeks, but a lot of the posts are from the same few people contributing, as well. Others mention that at this point in time it seems like it could be a one hit wonder, with them only focusing on one line at the moment.

There is no question that the movement is absolutely drop dead and like no other (it is basically what sold me). But as far as the rest of the watch, I can't decide if I am starting to get caught up in the hype/demand (or worrying too much about it) or if I actually love the watch (beyond the movement). And as such I am no longer sure if I want to spend 24k to figure it out later. On the one hand it feels like a lot of money for the watch. On the other hand it doesn't.

I am not sure the purpose of this post, just expressing some thoughts and reservations that I am currently having.

Totally understand your position. Hell, I went through it too.

Superficially, it may look like the PRX, but handling it would instantly demonstrate where your money went. It’s superlative in finish and makes Rolex and Omega (let alone plucky Tissot) seem crude.

When I bought mine it was made clear that I could return it within fourteen days if I wasn’t happy with it; perhaps reach out to Czapek and see if that is still the case.

As to where the company will go - who knows?

It is definitely not the safe option, but I have no regrets.

[Bug04]

Just forget about how many names jump in this or other Czapek topics, forget about how many others out there are liking this watch or not.
Of course this is easier to say than to do … but in the end the decision of whether you like it or not should be only yours, not conditioned by others’ tastes or by the degree of success of the watch.

Originally Posted by sgrossma

I'm feeling a bit torn. I just recently put down a deposit for an Antarctique after having been intrigued by Czapek for a few months. I first learned about the brand b/c of the Fratello release. It looked nice (especially the movement), but at the time I had never heard of the brand before so was definitely not ready to consider a purchase. I also am not very into green dials even though it looked good as a whole.

Recently, after seeing pictures of the upcoming Salmon/Sand, I thought this might be the one so even though it was sold out, I continued calling every AD and finally was lucky enough to get an allocation for it. But the more I think, the more I am now unsure. As mentioned in the video someone recently posted, it is hard not to notice that it resembles a Tissot PRX. While Czapek only makes around 250 watches a year, it seems a lot of that demand has been fulfilled and fueled by limited edition releases like the Fratello and Monochrome. And a few passionate collectors getting multiples. This thread has been at the top for a few weeks, but a lot of the posts are from the same few people contributing, as well. Others mention that at this point in time it seems like it could be a one hit wonder, with them only focusing on one line at the moment.

There is no question that the movement is absolutely drop dead and like no other (it is basically what sold me). But as far as the rest of the watch, I can't decide if I am starting to get caught up in the hype/demand (or worrying too much about it) or if I actually love the watch (beyond the movement). And as such I am no longer sure if I want to spend 24k to figure it out later. On the one hand it feels like a lot of money for the watch. On the other hand it doesn't.

I am not sure the purpose of this post, just expressing some thoughts and reservations that I am currently having.

[jd57]

The ability to substitute the "claw" marker at 12 o'clock vs the "12" got me to order an antarctique and I went with black dial. I was torn between ordering the solid red second hand and the plain steel. The red tip didnt do much for me and I decided on the steel since I thought the solid red might seem too casual, though it might be a nice contrast for an otherwise pretty sober watch. Would be interested if anyone has thoughts about the color they purchased and how the choice has felt with time since getting the watch.

[Pict]

Originally Posted by sgrossma

I'm feeling a bit torn. I just recently put down a deposit for an Antarctique after having been intrigued by Czapek for a few months. I first learned about the brand b/c of the Fratello release. It looked nice (especially the movement), but at the time I had never heard of the brand before so was definitely not ready to consider a purchase. I also am not very into green dials even though it looked good as a whole.

Recently, after seeing pictures of the upcoming Salmon/Sand, I thought this might be the one so even though it was sold out, I continued calling every AD and finally was lucky enough to get an allocation for it. But the more I think, the more I am now unsure. As mentioned in the video someone recently posted, it is hard not to notice that it resembles a Tissot PRX. While Czapek only makes around 250 watches a year, it seems a lot of that demand has been fulfilled and fueled by limited edition releases like the Fratello and Monochrome. And a few passionate collectors getting multiples. This thread has been at the top for a few weeks, but a lot of the posts are from the same few people contributing, as well. Others mention that at this point in time it seems like it could be a one hit wonder, with them only focusing on one line at the moment.

There is no question that the movement is absolutely drop dead and like no other (it is basically what sold me). But as far as the rest of the watch, I can't decide if I am starting to get caught up in the hype/demand (or worrying too much about it) or if I actually love the watch (beyond the movement). And as such I am no longer sure if I want to spend 24k to figure it out later. On the one hand it feels like a lot of money for the watch. On the other hand it doesn't.

I am not sure the purpose of this post, just expressing some thoughts and reservations that I am currently having.

You'll have seen that the other 2 gents in that video just laughed off the Tissot comparison, as will most others. You know what you're wearing, that's all that should matter. Like you i have a Salmon dial on order and I really can't wait to get it, not sure I'd like to shell out this money if I didn't feel that way. I don't think you should let that Tissot comment sway your initial thoughts on this watch.

[mbalmz]

Originally Posted by enjoythemusic

Congrats




Agreed it's Sand, see it on our car's footwell all the time.

thanks! deposit now officially in, and the waiting begins :)

[nellyregulate]

Originally Posted by Pict

You'll have seen that the other 2 gents in that video just laughed off the Tissot comparison, as will most others. You know what you're wearing, that's all that should matter. Like you i have a Salmon dial on order and I really can't wait to get it, not sure I'd like to shell out this money if I didn't feel that way. I don't think you should let that Tissot comment sway your initial thoughts on this watch.

I have both the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 and multiple Czapeks. If a comparison can be made between the two (which I do not think is the case), it would end after a dial comparison. The quality difference is substantial, and as others have stated, is on par with the “heavyweights” of the Steel sport category. Once you hold and see a Czapek in person, it’s easy to see how quality a timepiece it is. And that is before flipping over the piece and seeing the incredible movement!

[enjoythemusic]

Originally Posted by mbalmz

thanks! deposit now officially in, and the waiting begins :)

Congrats!

As for Tissot, ummm, gentlemen, how many timepieces look like a Daytona, Submariner, AP, etc. Tissot is not even that close. That's like saying my blue dial $400 Dumoreau is like the AP Hypeasaurous. Pah-leeeeeeze people.

Bug04 is right, YOU need to love it and that's all that matters. Not if Some Famous Guitarist loves it, or Paul Newman brushed up against one at Lime Rock Park during a race, or some famous Tik-Tok guy now swears Czapek is the next Big Thing. In fact, let's be grateful they don't (right now), because when Czapek reaches a certain 'mass', you'll wish for availability as we have today. Again, what matters is you love it.

Reminds me of when asking my Artsy Fartsy friend about four pieces of artwork I was considering for our home. Rule #1 is do you love it.

Rule #2 is see Rule #1.

Getting back to Czapek, I was smitten by the movement the moment I saw the drawing years ago. Am elated, and grateful, to have the opportunity today.

If I may say, let's all take a step back and appreciate this.

#gratitude

jmho

[londonpilgrim]

The salmon and glacier blue to be announced tomorrow I believe (8th Feb). I have a deposit on both (claw markers, steel second hand on both) so looking forward to the countdown!

[enjoythemusic]

Originally Posted by londonpilgrim

The salmon and glacier blue to be announced tomorrow I believe (8th Feb). I have a deposit on both (claw markers, steel second hand on both) so looking forward to the countdown!

That's a great first post, congrats!

Was just chatting about it with my friend Wynn. He's leaning towards the blue dial.

[Pdg]

I have been looking for a sports watch for a while and decided to go this route (38.5mm glacier blue). A bit of a wait, but so much easier than playing games with the ADs.

[AlyRba]

Czapek Antarctique dial being compared with Tissot PRX, all I can say is wow.. Passage De Drake’s pattern is entirely different than what’s on the Tissot. If you look closely, Czapek pattern appears as top half of a triangle/raised pyramid with one dark and one light side. Tissot dial has small square boxes. I don’t see any resemblance. Dial pattern aside, the dial quality and finish are quite a few tiers apart. Czapek has a movement that surpasses anything being offered by Patek and AP at this price range. Dial and case finishing are comparable. Patek and AP have edge on bracelet finishing. Overall, Czapek Antarctique is on par with entry sports offerings from AP, Patek, and VC. Right now the brand is on a 6-8 month waitlist. With demand increasing, I see the Antarctique becoming a 2-year waitlist watch even with overall Czapek production increasing to 1,000 watches/year (assuming 70% production will be Antarctique). Look at what has happened with Moser Streamliner Green Dial, the watch is now sold out till 2023.

To each his own and people can certainly make their own choices. All I can say is that right now is a good time to buy a brand while it is still taking off. Otherwise, it will be the Gronefeld Principia, Moser Streamliner Green dial of tomorrow in demand and availability.

[charger_vital]

Originally Posted by AlyRba

Czapek Antarctique dial being compared with Tissot PRX, all I can say is wow... I don’t see any resemblance...

They do resemble each other. That's patently obvious. If you are worried about the Czapek being devalued because an inexpensive Tissot resembles it in certain ways, don't be. The Tissot is a cool looking watch too. Besides, you bring up some excellent points about the Czapek being on whole other level in terms of just about every measurement you can apply. I definitely agree with you there. But to say there is no resemblance at all, is a bit intellectually dishonest.

[EEpro]

I see that glacier blue is for sale right now. Also that manufacturing dates in the past are available. It's 2022 dates beginning January.

Update: they caught it. It's now Dec 2022.