The Chronomètre Souverain by François-Paul Journe masterfully returns watchmaking to its essential roots, focusing on chronometric precision with a design that is both simple and elegant. This timepiece features only hour and minute hands, small seconds, and a power reserve indicator, the latter positioned at the technically challenging 3 o’clock position near the winding stem, showcasing the harmonious balance of every component.

The present platinum example belongs to the early generation of the model, notable for its smaller hobnail guilloché motif at the center of the silvered dial. Elegant blued steel hands provide crystal clear legibility, while the unusual power reserve indicator at 3 o’clock—graduated from 0 to 56 and inspired by marine chronometers—moves in reverse, advancing toward zero as the mainspring reaches full wind.

Powered by the superb cal. 1304 with its warm pink gold movement architecture, the watch offers a 56 hour reserve within an ultra slim case measuring just 8 mm in thickness, ensuring both comfort and refinement on the wrist.

In the collection of the present owner for 18 years, this timeless Chronomètre Souverain epitomizes the aesthetic purity and intellectual depth that define F.P. Journe’s oeuvre.