Czapek Brand
Czapek Antarctique Rattrapante ‘R.U.R.’: Where Haute Horlogerie Meets The Age Of Robots
Luxferity, 04.09.2025
In a bold fusion of history, mechanics, and artistry, Czapek & Cie presents the Antarctique Rattrapante ‘R.U.R.’. This avant-garde limited edition of just 77 pieces reimagines haute horlogerie with a playful yet profound nod to the origins of the word “robot” — first introduced to the world in 1921 by Czech playwright Karel Čapek in Rossum’s Universal Robots.
Rattrapante R.U.R.
The Antarctique Rattrapante ‘R.U.R.’ is more than a watch; it is a mechanical narrative. At its core, it combines Czapek’s mastery of the split-seconds chronograph complication with an animated titanium robot whose color-changing eyes interact directly with the movement.
Rattrapante R.U.R.
A Dial Alive with Meaning and Motion
On first glance, the R.U.R. recalls Czapek’s celebrated Antarctique Rattrapante models, yet subtle details set it apart. A white chronograph hand contrasts against a blue aluminium rattrapante hand tipped in white, while coded “XX” symbols appear across the chronograph register and sub-dials – evoking a futuristic robotic language inspired by the Predator films’ Yautja alphabet.
Rattrapante R.U.R.
The miniature titanium robot, crafted by Czapek’s partner MD’Art, stands at the heart of the timepiece. Entirely hand-polished, laser-engraved, and micro-painted in neon tones, its eyes change colour with each chronograph command:
- Yellow when started
- Red when stopped
- Blue upon reset
This interplay transforms the watch into a living kinetic sculpture, seamlessly uniting playfulness and haute horlogerie precision.
Rattrapante R.U.R.
Mechanical Poetry: The Calibre SXH6
Developed with Jean-François Mojon of Chronode, the Calibre SXH6 boldly inverts tradition by placing the split-seconds chronograph on the dial side. A central tripod bridge supports a patented satellite minute train and split-seconds system, while dual column wheels – one at 12 and another at 6 – anchor the symmetrical architecture.
Unlike standard chronographs, the Antarctique Rattrapante ‘R.U.R.’ integrates a hidden isolator mechanism, which decouples wheels to reduce friction and enhance precision. This innovation underscores Czapek’s philosophy: form and function in perfect harmony.
Rattrapante R.U.R.
Haute Horlogerie, Inside and Out
Every element of the R.U.R. reflects Swiss luxury watchmaking at its peak.
- Dial side: mirror-polished screws, bevelled levers, and sandblasted plates create a dramatic interplay of light.
- Movement side: a recycled 5N rose gold oscillating weight glides above bridges finished with matte bead-blasting, polished chamfers, circular satin wheels, and black-polished screws.
- Case & bracelet: a sleek 42.5 mm case paired with Czapek’s signature integrated bracelet, merging brushed and polished surfaces in perfect rhythm.
The watch beats at 4Hz, delivering 60 hours of autonomy and enduring beauty.
Rattrapante R.U.R.
A Century of Robots, Reimagined in Horology
By naming this edition R.U.R., Czapek bridges horology with cultural history. Just as Čapek’s 1921 play questioned the role of technology in humanity’s future, Czapek’s new timepiece reflects today’s dialogue around automation, AI, and transhumanism — while celebrating the enduring artistry of mechanical watchmaking.
Rattrapante R.U.R.
Availability
The Czapek Antarctique Rattrapante ‘R.U.R.’ is strictly limited to 77 pieces and will be available from September 5th, 2025 at:
Czapek Geneva Boutique (18 rue de la Corraterie) -> Make an appointment
Authorised Czapek retailers, as Luxferity, worldwide -> Pre-order
Rattrapante R.U.R.
