Looking for some opinions from the group before I make the final decision on this one.

I’ve been looking at a Czapek Antarctique Purple Storm, limited to only 18 pieces, and this particular watch is #1/18. I’ve negotiated the price to $27,000 + tax via wire.

It’s pre-owned and has undergone a full movement service by Czapek-certified watchmakers at a partner facility, along with a light refinish back to factory standard. The strap was also replaced with a new factory strap ordered directly from Czapek. The original Czapek warranty runs through December 2026, and the dealer is providing an additional 2-year warranty from the date of purchase.

Dealer is The 1916 Company, so I’m comfortable with who I’m buying from. They’ve also agreed to transfer the watch to their Manhattan Beach location so I can inspect it and try it on before making the final decision.

I really love the Purple Storm dial and the fact that every one of the 18 hand-varnished dials is unique. #1/18 is also pretty cool to me.

My main questions for the group:

At $27K, would you pursue this particular example?

Does the fact that it has been lightly refinished/polished bother you on something this limited, or is that relatively insignificant given that it was professionally returned to factory standard?

And for those familiar with the secondary Czapek market, does $27K feel right, or would you want to be lower considering the refinish/service history?

I’m buying it to wear and keep rather than flip, but obviously I’d still like to buy it right.

Would appreciate opinions—especially from Czapek/Antarctique owners.

Here is a video of the exact watch.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CAccxsD1Xvg