It is fair to say that Xavier de Roquemaurel leads Czapek & Cie. with the same free spirit that defines this independent watchmaking maison. Revived in 2015 with a unique shareholder structure, Czapek has established itself as a key player in contemporary watchmaking.
Flagship collections like the Quai des Bergues, Place Vendôme and Antarctique all embody the Geneva brand’s commitment to eye-catching design, mechanical innovation and fine hand-finishing.
Having experienced a “second life” following an episode of personal resurrection, Xavier chats with us about his tastes and passions, from Beethoven to Boris Vian, while offering glimpses of his philosophy on life and watchmaking, where beauty, freedom and boldness all come together.
Bonjour Xavier. So, tell us, what is your favourite book?
‘Froth on the Daydream’ by Boris Vian. It’s a classic because it reflects life with all its paradoxes, incoherencies, poetry, madness, sadness and joy. Everything is in it, and even though nothing is logical, everything follows its own logic. It’s another way of seeing life.
Your favourite movie?
‘Brazil’ directed by Terry Gilliam. This film represents the individual’s struggle against the system and the desire to write one’s own story.
Your favourite music?
Beethoven’s 9th Symphony, as used in ‘A Clockwork Orange’ by Stanley Kubrick, for its connections to the fight for freedom and the human spirit.
But also ‘Alter Ego’ by NTO, which took on particular meaning after my aortic dissection in early 2022. I survived against very tough odds, and during my recovery, walking in the forests, this music helped me connect with the trees, with nature, and reminded me that I had been given a second life. Very few people have that chance.
Wow. What a story! And what is your favourite food in this second life?
Foie gras, especially the kind I prepare myself. I don’t claim to be an expert, but I enjoy improving it each time.
Your favourite drink?
A mojito or a glass of Château Brane-Cantenac, a red wine from Margaux.
Your favourite holiday destination?
This year, it’s the Costa Brava in Spain. We’re very Latin at heart, and the region is beautiful. I love the warmth of the people there.
Your favourite TV show?
The daily news on RTS (Radio Télévision Suisse) with Philippe Revaz. I appreciate his soft but punchy style, his respect for his guests and the fact that he’s nobody’s fool.
Your favourite podcast?
‘The Real Time Show’ with Rob Nudds and Alon Ben Joseph, ‘Scottish Watches’, and ‘Keeping Time’ with Jeremy Oster from Oster Jewelers.
Your favourite piece of clothing or sartorial accessory?
Shoes. They reveal everything about a person. I also appreciate jackets for their balance between chic and casual.
Your favourite activity that you do in your free time?
Snowboarding, which I’ve been doing since I was 14. I’m one of the pioneers of the sport! It’s more than a hobby; it’s a passion. I even competed in the French championship in moguls!
Tell us something about you that might surprise us.
Well, that I’m a snowboard addict! Snowboarding has been a key part of my rehabilitation after my aortic dissection. I was lucky enough to have a second life after this near-death experience. That has left a deep impression on me. I felt the transition from life to death inside my body.
Now, I live every moment with a heightened sense of freedom and independence. When I’m snowboarding, maybe I’m going a bit slower now – 80 km/h instead of 120 – but I still love that feeling of freedom.
What is on your ‘bucket list’ (an activity, accomplishment or destination that you hope to do or visit before you exit this world)?
I’d like to write a collection of ‘ideas’ on managing a brand in the 21st century. I want to share everything I’ve learned – which often goes against what we’re taught about modern business.
Who is someone who has inspired you in your life and/or career. How did they inspire you?
Xavier Oliver, former president of BBDO Spain and a communication professor during my MBA. His phrase “Don't try to find clients, try to make friends” deeply inspired me.
Name a famous person or historical figure, dead or alive, that you would like to have lunch with. Why?
Salvador Dalí. I admire his creativity and sensitivity.
What was the first watch you remember owning? What was special about it?
A Cheifel, a French brand that no longer exists. It was slim and elegant, with glaive hands. It wasn’t an expensive watch, but I thought it was fantastic.
And finally, a wrist check: What watch are you currently wearing? And what do you like about it?
I’m wearing the Antarctique S Passage de Drake Glacier Blue. It has been my summer watch. It’s robust, waterproof and I can swim with it. I never take it off – I can even sleep with it on!
For more information on Xavier’s company, please visit the Czapek & Cie. website.
