Czapek Unveils the Promenade Guilloché Soleil Ivoire at Watches and Wonders 2024
A Fresh Take on Classic Watchmaking
At Watches and Wonders 2024 in Geneva, Czapek introduced the Promenade Guilloché Soleil Ivoire, showcasing a novel approach to traditional watchmaking aesthetics. This timepiece is a testament to Czapek’s ability to innovate within the confines of horological tradition, presenting a design that’s both respectful of its heritage and boldly forward-looking.
Asymmetry as Art
The hallmark of the Promenade dial is its deliberate asymmetry, with all designs emanating from the small seconds dial at 4:30. This unique placement creates dynamic tension and a sense of movement, further emphasized by Czapek’s focus on color and detail. The result is an intriguing interplay of light and shadow that changes with the movement of the wearer’s wrist, brought to life through the ancient art of Guillochage.
Guilloché ‘Soleil’ Technique
In collaboration with its long-standing partner Metalem, Czapek has reinvented the traditional Guilloché technique with the ‘Soleil’ motif. This innovative approach sees the seconds sub-dial as the sun, from which finely crafted guilloché rays emanate, offering a modern twist to hand-guillochage.
The Heart of Promenade: Calibre SXH5
Since its debut in May 2020, the automatic Calibre SXH5 has seen continuous refinement. For the Promenade series, the small seconds mechanism has been repositioned to align directly beneath the main dial display, in line with Czapek’s philosophy of prioritizing beauty. This movement is distinguished by its seven skeletonized bridges, inspired by François Czapek’s 19th-century pocket watches, and features haute horlogerie finishes. With a beat rate of 4Hz (28,800 vph) and powered by a micro rotor made from 100% recycled platinum, the SXH5 provides a 60-hour power reserve.
All in the details
Czapek’s dedication to excellence is evident in every aspect of the Promenade collection, not least in the choice of straps. Available with either a soft Nubuck strap or a sleek Milanese steel bracelet, each option complements the watch’s elegant case and intricately designed dial, ensuring that every detail contributes to the overall aesthetic and functional masterpiece.
At the end of the day…
With the release of the Promenade Guilloché Soleil Ivoire, Czapek once again affirms its reputation for combining traditional craftsmanship with innovative design. At the end of the day, this timepiece not only respects the legacy of fine watchmaking but also pushes the boundaries of what is possible, making it a significant addition to the world of luxury watches.