The Story of the Lost Watchmaker: Czapek
In 1871, the same year the last French emperor, Napoleon III, was deposed and exiled, François Czapek—owner of Czapek & Cie and celebrated as “Napoleon’s Official Watchmaker”—vanished without a trace. His sudden disappearance remains one of the most intriguing mysteries in watchmaking history.
Our journey begins in the early 1800s, in the small town of Semonice, in what is now the Czech Republic. Born there in 1811, would go on to become one of the 19th century’s most gifted watchmakers. His life, however, was shaped as much by politics as by precision craftsmanship. As a young man, he emigrated with his family to Poland, only to be swept up in the November Uprising of 1830–31 against the Russian Empire. The revolt ended in defeat, costing tens of thousands of lives and prompting a wave of emigration from Poland.
Among those leaving was Czapek, who moved to Switzerland—a relocation that would prove decisive for his career, placing him in the beating heart of the watchmaking world.
Adapting to his new environment, he Gallicized his name to François and soon founded his first company, Czapek & Moreau, showcasing his remarkable skill at the bench. Fate then introduced him to another Polish émigré, Antoine Norbert de Patek. The two met in 1836 and, on May 1, 1839, co-founded Patek, Czapek & Cie. By 1840, the fledgling enterprise employed six people, three of whom—like the founders—were Polish immigrants. Czapek oversaw production, while Patek led sales, and together they produced around 200 watches annually.
The partnership lasted until 1845, when the two parted ways. Patek went on to form a new alliance with Adrien Philippe, laying the foundations for Patek Philippe—today one of the most revered names in watchmaking. Czapek, meanwhile, embarked on his next chapter.
His new partner, Juliusz Gruzewski, was a fellow Polish watchmaker and close friend of Napoleon III. Together they established Czapek & Cie, opening a Geneva workshop, a Paris boutique in 1850, and a Warsaw store in 1854. By then, Czapek was recognized as one of the preeminent watchmakers of his time and even authored one of the first watchmaking books in Polish. His growing prestige earned him the title of Official Watchmaker to Napoleon III.
Then, in 1871, the story took a dramatic turn: François Czapek disappeared. Official company records mark 1871 as the year of Czapek’s disappearance, though some sources suggest he vanished in 1869. According to one theory, the company changed hands in that year, supported by evidence from a pocket watch dated 1876 bearing the inscription “Former Czapek & Cie Establishment” and “Successor A. Chaillet.” It has been speculated that, amid the political upheaval following Napoleon III’s downfall in 1870, Czapek may have transferred ownership to Chaillet. Yet neither the circumstances of his disappearance nor the fate of Chaillet’s venture have ever been confirmed. The details remain locked away in the shadows of history.
A Century Later: The Revival
Fast forward to 2012, when Xavier de Roquemaurel and two entrepreneurs set out to breathe life back into the Czapek name. In a groundbreaking move for haute horlogerie, they launched the brand’s rebirth through participatory capital, inviting enthusiasts from around the world to take part. The campaign drew more than 100 backers—entrepreneurs and watch lovers alike—and raised over one million Swiss francs. By 2015, Czapek officially returned to the stage of fine watchmaking.
As a tribute to the brand’s roots, its first modern collection was named Quai des Bergues, after the Geneva workshop’s historic address. Drawing inspiration from the original Czapek & Cie models, the revived brand honored both the technical mechanisms and the distinctive design codes of its founder.
Now employing around 120 people, Czapek is once again a name whispered with admiration among collectors and connoisseurs. Standout collections include the Antarctique, Place Vendôme, and Quai des Bergues series. François Czapek’s legacy endures not only through his own creations but also through his role in inspiring Antoine Norbert de Patek, who went on to shape one of the most iconic watch brands in history. He remains celebrated as one of the true masters of haute horlogerie.
And perhaps, one day, the enigma of his disappearance will finally be solved—emerging from the dusty folds of history like a rare timepiece rediscovered after more than a century in the dark.
