Czapek Place Vendome Complicite

Within the intricate world of horology, few names resonate with the depth and artistry of Czapek & Cie. The esteemed Swiss watchmaker has consistently pushed boundaries, captivating enthusiasts and collectors alike with its unparalleled dedication to craftsmanship and innovation. The latest masterpiece to emerge from Czapek's ateliers, the Place Vendôme Complicité, is not merely a timepiece; it's a testament to the power of collaboration, the fusion of technical prowess and artistic vision, and the culmination of a remarkable friendship.



To truly appreciate the significance of the Place Vendôme Complicité, one must first delve into the rich tapestry of Czapek's history. Founded in 1845 by François Czapek, a Polish watchmaker who found his calling in Geneva, the Maison quickly gained recognition for its exceptional pocket watches. Czapek's creations graced the wrists of royalty, including Emperor Napoleon III, and garnered numerous awards at international exhibitions.



However, like many historical watchmakers, Czapek faced challenges and eventually faded into obscurity. It wasn't until 2012 that a group of passionate entrepreneurs, collectors, and watchmakers revived the brand, determined to resurrect its legacy. Since then, Czapek has soared to new heights, consistently delivering timepieces that blend tradition with modernity, technical complexity with aesthetic refinement.



The Place Vendôme Complicité, unveiled in 2023, represents the culmination of a journey that began in 2018. The watchmakers at Czapek sought to evolve their renowned initial models, the Quai des Bergues and Place Vendôme, with a distinctive 'face' characterized by sub-dials at 7:30 and 4:30. The vision was to create a double escapement watch, a horological marvel with two independent escapements working in unison to enhance accuracy.



However, this ambition presented a formidable challenge. The technical intricacies of such a movement, coupled with the desire for a visually stunning design, required a unique collaboration. Czapek's CEO, Xavier de Roquemaurel, and his team embarked on a quest to find a watchmaking partner who could reconcile the technical demands with the aesthetic aspirations.



Fate intervened in the form of a chance encounter. Xavier's son, Paul, shared a school class with the daughter of renowned watchmaker Bernhard Lederer. A mutual friend introduced the two fathers, and a friendship blossomed. Lederer, known for his expertise in escapements, was intrigued by Czapek's vision. Through their shared passion for horology, a collaboration was born, and the Place Vendôme Complicité project was revitalized.



The watch's name, Complicité, is a nod to this pivotal collaboration and the intricate dance between the two independent escapements within the movement. It's a testament to the power of shared ideas, the fusion of expertise, and the magic that can unfold when creative minds converge.



The Place Vendôme Complicité is a symphony of technical ingenuity and artistic expression. Its design language draws inspiration from Czapek's iconic models, yet it introduces a contemporary edge with sharper lines and a more dynamic interplay of light and shadow. The case, crafted from 18k white gold, boasts a modest 41.8mm diameter, ensuring a comfortable fit on the wrist. Its flowing curves and crisp angles create a captivating visual tension, further accentuated by the contrasting brushed and polished finishes.



The dial is a masterpiece of openworked architecture, revealing the intricate ballet of gears, wheels, and springs beneath a sapphire crystal. Two sub-dials, positioned at 7:30 and 4:30, house the twin escapements, each with its own balance wheel oscillating independently. A third sub-dial at 6 o'clock displays the power reserve, while the central differential orchestrates the harmonious interaction between the two escapements.



The hands, sword-shaped and openworked, glide effortlessly above the mechanical landscape, their blued finish and luminous coating ensuring optimal legibility. The applied hour markers echo the shape of the hands, creating a cohesive and elegant aesthetic. Every detail, no matter how minute, has been meticulously considered, from the hand-beveled angles on the movement's bridges to the hidden "arcade des heures" surrounding the center post.



Beyond the elegant façade of the Place Vendôme Complicité lies a horological heart that beats with innovation and precision. The watch's in-house Calibre 8 movement is a testament to Czapek's commitment to pushing the boundaries of mechanical watchmaking. This manually wound movement is a marvel of engineering, featuring a 72-hour power reserve that ensures the watch keeps ticking even after being set aside for a few days.



The star of the show, however, is the double escapement regulator. This intricate mechanism employs two independent balance wheels, each with its own escapement, working in tandem to enhance accuracy. The balance wheels, positioned at 7:30 and 4:30 on the dial, oscillate at their own pace, averaging out any potential errors caused by gravity, temperature variations, or other external factors. This clever arrangement results in a timepiece that not only tells time but does so with exceptional precision.



But the Calibre 8 is not just a technical marvel; it's also a visual feast. Czapek has embraced the concept of "openworked" design, allowing the wearer to peer into the intricate workings of the movement. The sapphire bridges, meticulously hand-beveled with 18 inward angles, offer a glimpse into the mesmerizing dance of gears, wheels, and springs. The triangular bridges that suspend the balance wheels add a touch of modernity to the design, while the various metal finishes create a captivating contrast of textures and colors.



For watch enthusiasts, the Place Vendôme Complicité is a treasure trove of details to discover. The crown wheel mechanism, a subtle nod to Bernhard Lederer's contribution, is seamlessly integrated into the movement's architecture. The openworked hands and applied hour markers not only enhance legibility but also contribute to the overall aesthetic harmony of the watch. And the tiny "arcade des heures" surrounding the center post is a delightful surprise for those who take the time to look closely.



Czapek's attention to detail extends beyond the movement. The 41.8mm white gold case is a study in refined elegance. Its ergonomic design ensures a comfortable fit, while the mix of brushed and polished surfaces creates a dynamic interplay of light. The alligator strap, carefully selected to complement the dial color, adds a touch of luxury and sophistication.



The Place Vendôme Complicité is not just a watch; it's a wearable work of art, a testament to the power of collaboration, and a celebration of horological excellence. With its limited production of only 13 pieces, it's a timepiece that will undoubtedly become a coveted collector's item. Priced at 85,000 CHF, it represents an investment in both craftsmanship and artistry.



In a world where mass production often overshadows individuality, Czapek's Place Vendôme Complicité stands as a beacon of exclusivity and personalized luxury. It's a watch that tells a story, a story of friendship, passion, and the relentless pursuit of horological perfection.