It sounds like a good build.

You'll need to buy a headset. The Cane Creek S-3 is a nice, inexpensive option. Mine has given me 2700+ worry-free miles on my Cross Check.

For the brakes, you'll either need mini-V's or V's with Travel Agents with the Apex brifters. I'm using a Travel Agent on the front with an Avid SD7 brake, and that works great. In the rear I used an Avid Shorty 4 canti that I had in the garage.

You'll need a 27.2 mm seat post.

I'm not sure I'd fork out the dough for a Force crank. The Cross Check frame isn't especially stiff. I've got an FSA Gossamer on mine. I like it except for the short lifespan of the bottom bracket cups, but those are Shimano compatible so you can just upgrade to Dura Ace for around $45 when the FSA cups start failing. I can't comment on the Apex crank. On the other hand, for commuting and light touring, you might be better off with something that uses a square-taper cartridge bottom bracket.