In the world of haute horlogerie collaborations often yield extraordinary creations. One such collaboration that has captivated watch enthusiasts is the partnership between
Czapek & Cie. and Fratello Watches. Their latest masterpiece, the Czapek x Fratello Promenade Transparencies "Viridian Green," is a testament to their shared passion for horological excellence and artistic expression. This two-part article delves into the intricate details of this remarkable timepiece, exploring its historical context, design inspiration, and technical prowess.
To truly appreciate the significance of the Czapek x Fratello Promenade Transparencies "Viridian Green," it's essential to understand the legacies of the two entities involved. Czapek & Cie., a brand steeped in history, traces its roots back to 1845 when François Czapek, a Polish watchmaker, established his atelier in Geneva, Switzerland. Czapek quickly gained recognition for his exceptional craftsmanship and innovative designs, attracting notable clientele, including Emperor Napoleon III. However, the company's fortunes waned after Czapek's departure, and it eventually faded into obscurity.
Courtesy of Fratello
In 2011, a group of passionate watch enthusiasts and entrepreneurs resurrected the Czapek name, determined to revive the brand's legacy of horological excellence. Guided by the spirit of François Czapek, they sought to create timepieces that embody the brand's core values: tradition, innovation, and exclusivity. Today, Czapek & Cie. stands as a testament to the enduring allure of traditional watchmaking, producing limited-edition timepieces that cater to discerning collectors.
Fratello Watches, on the other hand, is a relatively young but highly influential online platform dedicated to watch enthusiasts. Founded in 2004 by Robert-Jan Broer, Fratello has become a go-to source for watch reviews, news, and insightful commentary. The platform's team of experienced writers and photographers provides in-depth coverage of the watch industry, catering to both seasoned collectors and newcomers alike. Fratello's commitment to objective and informative content has earned them a loyal following, making them a respected voice in the watch community.
The collaboration between Czapek & Cie. and Fratello Watches is a match made in horological heaven. Both entities share a deep appreciation for the art of watchmaking and a desire to create timepieces that resonate with passionate collectors. Their first collaboration, the Czapek x Fratello Antarctique Rattrapante, was met with critical acclaim, setting the stage for their latest endeavor, the Czapek x Fratello Promenade Transparencies "Viridian Green."
Courtesy of Fratello
The Czapek x Fratello Promenade Transparencies "Viridian Green" draws inspiration from the rich history of the color itself. Viridian Green, a vibrant and captivating hue, has a fascinating backstory that intertwines with the artistic landscape of 19th-century Paris. The color was first synthesized in 1838 by Antoine-Claude Pannetier, a Parisian chemist and painter. Pannetier's discovery, a hydrated form of chromium oxide, was initially met with challenges due to its complex and expensive production process.
However, in 1859, another French painter, Adrian Guignet, refined Pannetier's method, making Viridian Green more accessible to artists. The color quickly gained popularity among the Impressionists, who were drawn to its vividness and versatility. Artists such as Claude Monet, Paul Cézanne, and Vincent van Gogh incorporated Viridian Green into their palettes, using it to depict landscapes, still lifes, and portraits.
The choice of Viridian Green for the Czapek x Fratello Promenade Transparencies is a nod to the color's Parisian roots and its association with artistic expression. The watch's name, "Promenade," further evokes the leisurely strolls along the Seine and through the charming streets of Paris, where artists and intellectuals once gathered to exchange ideas and find inspiration.
The Czapek x Fratello Promenade Transparencies "Viridian Green" is a feast for the eyes, a harmonious blend of classic design and contemporary flair. The watch's most striking feature is undoubtedly its mesmerizing green fumé dial. The dial's translucent quality allows the wearer to peer into the intricate workings of the movement beneath, creating a sense of depth and complexity. The green hue, reminiscent of the Parisian pigment, adds a touch of vibrancy and sophistication.
The dial's design is a study in understated elegance. The applied hour markers and Super-LumiNova accents provide excellent legibility, while the small seconds sub-dial at 4 o'clock adds a touch of visual interest. The absence of a date window further enhances the dial's clean and uncluttered aesthetic.
Courtesy of Fratello
The watch's 38mm stainless steel case is a perfect balance of size and proportion. The case's polished finish complements the dial's vibrant green, while the slender bezel maximizes the dial's visual impact. The watch's lugs are elegantly curved, ensuring a comfortable fit on the wrist.
The Czapek x Fratello Promenade Transparencies "Viridian Green" is paired with a green Cordura strap, a departure from the traditional leather straps often associated with dress watches. The Cordura strap's sporty aesthetic adds a touch of versatility to the watch, making it suitable for both casual and formal occasions.
Beneath the captivating dial of the Czapek x Fratello Promenade Transparencies "Viridian Green" lies a mechanical marvel, the Calibre SXH7.1. This in-house movement, developed and manufactured by Czapek & Cie., is a testament to the brand's commitment to horological innovation. The movement's skeletonized design allows for an unobstructed view of its intricate components, showcasing the watchmakers' artistry.
The Calibre SXH7.1 is equipped with a recycled platinum micro-rotor, a testament to Czapek & Cie.'s commitment to sustainability. The micro-rotor's placement within the movement ensures a slim profile, contributing to the watch's overall elegance. The movement boasts a power reserve of 60 hours, providing ample timekeeping autonomy.
The dial of the Czapek x Fratello Promenade Transparencies "Viridian Green" is a masterpiece of design and execution. Crafted from fumé sapphire crystal, it possesses an ethereal quality, allowing the wearer to peer into the intricate mechanical ballet unfolding beneath. The Viridian Green hue, inspired by the historical pigment, imbues the dial with a captivating depth and richness.
The dial's layout is a study in balanced asymmetry. The small seconds sub-dial, positioned at 4 o'clock, adds a touch of dynamism to the overall composition. The applied hour markers, meticulously crafted and finished, provide excellent legibility against the translucent backdrop. The absence of a date window ensures that the dial remains uncluttered, allowing the eye to focus on the mesmerizing interplay of light and shadow.
Courtesy of Fratello
The Czapek x Fratello Promenade Transparencies "Viridian Green" is housed in a 38mm stainless steel case, a size that strikes a perfect balance between classic proportions and contemporary wearability. The case's design is characterized by its flowing lines and gentle curves, creating a harmonious silhouette that sits comfortably on the wrist.
The case's finishing is a testament to Czapek & Cie.'s unwavering commitment to quality. The polished surfaces gleam with a subtle brilliance, while the brushed flanks add a touch of understated refinement. The slender bezel maximizes the dial's visual impact, drawing the eye to the captivating Viridian Green fumé sapphire crystal.
At the heart of the Czapek x Fratello Promenade Transparencies "Viridian Green" beats the Calibre SXH7.1, an in-house movement that exemplifies Czapek & Cie.'s dedication to horological innovation. This self-winding mechanical movement is a marvel of engineering and artistry, its skeletonized design offering an unobstructed view of its intricate components.
The Calibre SXH7.1 is equipped with a recycled platinum micro-rotor, a testament to Czapek & Cie.'s commitment to sustainability. The micro-rotor's discreet placement within the movement ensures a slim profile, contributing to the watch's overall elegance. The movement oscillates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz), providing exceptional accuracy and stability.
The Calibre SXH7.1's finishing is a testament to the watchmakers' meticulous attention to detail. The bridges are adorned with Côtes de Genève stripes, while the anglage is executed with precision and care. The movement's jewels, sparkling like tiny gemstones, add a touch of visual delight.
The Czapek x Fratello Promenade Transparencies "Viridian Green" is paired with a green Cordura strap, a departure from the traditional leather straps often associated with dress watches. The Cordura strap's sporty aesthetic adds a touch of versatility to the watch, making it suitable for both casual and formal occasions. The strap's texture and color complement the dial's Viridian Green hue, creating a harmonious ensemble.
Courtesy of Fratello
The Czapek x Fratello Promenade Transparencies "Viridian Green" is a limited edition of just 50 pieces, making it a highly exclusive timepiece. This limited production run reflects Czapek & Cie.'s philosophy of creating rare watches for rare individuals. The watch is not merely a timekeeping instrument; it's a symbol of exclusivity and discerning taste.
With a retail price of €32,000 (excluding VAT), the Czapek x Fratello Promenade Transparencies "Viridian Green" is an investment-worthy timepiece that will undoubtedly appreciate in value over time. Its rarity, coupled with its exceptional craftsmanship and captivating design, makes it a highly sought-after collector's item.
Case: Stainless steel case. 38mm diameter x 42mm lug-to-lug x 10.8mm thickness. 20mm lug width. Sapphire crystal with internal anti-reflective treatment. Sapphire display case back with internal anti-reflective treatment. Water resistance of 5 ATM (50 meters).
Movement: Calibre SXH7.1. In-house self-winding mechanical skeletonized movement with a recycled platinum micro rotor. 60-hour power reserve.
Dial: Green fumé sapphire dial with applied hour markers and Super-LumiNova. Small seconds sub-dial at 4:30.
Strap: Green Cordura strap with a Czapek pin buckle.
Price: €32,000 (excluding VAT)
Notes: Limited edition of 50 pieces. Pre-orders open on Friday, December 6th. Czapek aims to deliver all 50 pieces by the end of July 2025.