The 30mm. SXH5.01 automatic calibre powering the Antartique Collection has been conceived internally by a multifaceted team. Special attention was given to both performance and appearance, so the movement’s parts are arranged for visual harmony and transparency. At the root is a free-sprung balance wheel with variable inertia provided by four gold masselotte weights, which enables the highest level of precision tuning for a mechanical watch. The powerful microrotor is made of fully recycled Platinum 950. It was placed off-centre to allow a plunging view into the mechanism. The SXH5.01 runs at a fast 28,800 vph. The single barrel harbours a flat spring wound via the traditional Czapek ratchet wheel with five arms. The timepiece has a power reserve of over 60 hours, a truly remarkable feat for a microrotor.

The most visible part of any watch is the dial. The Antarctique’s dial was designed and manufactured by Metalem, a Czapek & Cie cooperation partner, using a unique lamé technique. The characteristic striations on the dial give the colours more depth and starker reflections.

The Antarctique is featuring a carefully-honed, edgy looked 41-millimeter integrated case with double “trompe l’oeil” curves and thin enough to slip comfortably under a cuff. The transparent case back reveals its beating heart, the new automatic SHX5.01 calibre. Its water-resistance to 120 metres makes it a natural for the sportive types who would like to keep their watch on while swimming. A sporty stainless-steel bracelet whose links mesh to form a modern “C. is organically completing the case. Leather or rubber strap are also proposed in options.