Lot Essay
Consigned by the original owner, a prominent private collector, the present timepiece is exceptionally rare. It is one of only 10 prototypes featuring this distinctive dial and is the sole known Antarctique with skeletonized hour and minute hands. These unique attributes make it an extraordinarily rare and coveted piece within the 'Lanikai' series.
Originally launched in 2023 as a limited edition of 50 pieces in collaboration with California retailer Collective Horology, this exceptional Czapek Antarctique features a meticulously crafted turquoise enamel dial by Donzé Cadrans. The dial’s concave shape adds depth, while a hand-engraved mold creates a wavy texture that mimics the natural seabed, capturing the aquamarine hues and textures of Lanikai Beach in Hawaii.
Master Enameller Francis Donzé founded his family company in 1972, supplying enamel dials to renowned watchmaking companies, notably Patek Philippe. In 2012, Ulysse Nardin acquired Donzé Cadrans, continuing the tradition of producing high-quality enamel dials.
Czapek & Cie
Czapek & Cie traces its origins back to François Czapek, a watchmaker who established his atelier in Geneva in 1832. Partnering with Antoine Norbert de Patek in 1839, they achieved considerable success. After parting ways in 1845, Czapek founded Czapek & Cie, becoming the official watchmaker of Napoleon III. The company was revived in 2015 with exceptional collections inspired by its historical timepieces, winning accolades such as the Public Prize at the Grand Prix de l’Horlogerie in Geneva in 2016. Their Antarctique collection, launched in 2020, showcases Czapek's first in-house movement, further solidifying the brand's commitment to craftsmanship, design, and exclusivity. Based in Geneva, Switzerland, the company continues to innovate and uphold its legacy in the world of haute horlogerie.
Originally launched in 2023 as a limited edition of 50 pieces in collaboration with California retailer Collective Horology, this exceptional Czapek Antarctique features a meticulously crafted turquoise enamel dial by Donzé Cadrans. The dial’s concave shape adds depth, while a hand-engraved mold creates a wavy texture that mimics the natural seabed, capturing the aquamarine hues and textures of Lanikai Beach in Hawaii.
Master Enameller Francis Donzé founded his family company in 1972, supplying enamel dials to renowned watchmaking companies, notably Patek Philippe. In 2012, Ulysse Nardin acquired Donzé Cadrans, continuing the tradition of producing high-quality enamel dials.
Czapek & Cie
Czapek & Cie traces its origins back to François Czapek, a watchmaker who established his atelier in Geneva in 1832. Partnering with Antoine Norbert de Patek in 1839, they achieved considerable success. After parting ways in 1845, Czapek founded Czapek & Cie, becoming the official watchmaker of Napoleon III. The company was revived in 2015 with exceptional collections inspired by its historical timepieces, winning accolades such as the Public Prize at the Grand Prix de l’Horlogerie in Geneva in 2016. Their Antarctique collection, launched in 2020, showcases Czapek's first in-house movement, further solidifying the brand's commitment to craftsmanship, design, and exclusivity. Based in Geneva, Switzerland, the company continues to innovate and uphold its legacy in the world of haute horlogerie.