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70Σ

F.P. Journe

Chronomètre à Résonance, 38MM Steel Set

An impressive and highly desirable limited-edition stainless-steel dual-time chronometer wristwatch with small seconds, double escapement and power reserve indication, numbered 22 of a limited edition of 38 pieces

Estimate
$180,000 - 360,000
Lot Details
Manufacturer
F.P. Journe
Year
Circa 2015
Case No
22/38-RN
Model Name
Chronomètre à Résonance, 38MM Steel Set
Material
Stainless steel
Calibre
Manual, cal. 1499.3, 40 jewels
Bracelet/Strap
Crocodile
Clasp/Buckle
Stainless steel F.P Journe deployant clasp
Dimensions
38mm Diameter
Signed
Case, dial, movement, and clasp signed.
Catalogue Essay
With a relentless pursuit of technical innovation in the service of chronometric precision, F.P. Journe has consistently sought to create timepieces that marry aesthetic elegance with mechanical ingenuity. Among his oeuvre, two creations stand as emblematic of his philosophy: the Tourbillon Souverain and, most notably, the Chronomètre à Résonance.

The latter represents Journe’s most daring horological challenge. Inspired by the pioneering work of Antide Janvier in the 18th century, and further influenced by Abraham-Louis Breguet, Journe achieved a world first by creating a wristwatch equipped with two closely positioned resonating escapements. These escapements, interacting with one another’s dissipating energy, beat in harmony, thereby enhancing overall accuracy and reducing variations in rate. In Journe’s hands, the phenomenon of resonance was not a theoretical pursuit, but a practical solution for superior timekeeping.

Offered here is one of only 38 examples of the Chronomètre à Résonance crafted in stainless steel as part of the exclusive limited-edition box set comprising five of the manufacture’s most emblematic models. Notably, these were the final Journe watches to be produced in the classic 38mm case size, discontinued in 2015. While the design recalls the earliest generation (2000–2009), it is distinguished by its exceptionally rare stainless steel case as well as the usage of navy colored texts, a detail reserved for the steel series.

The dial is beautifully symmetrical, featuring twin 12-hour registers with subsidiary seconds at 6 o’clock, surrouding a reverse power reserve indicator at 12 o’clock—a nod to marine chronometers, measuring hours elapsed since winding rather than hours remaining. The movement within, the solid rose gold calibre 1499.3, remains identical to that found in Journe’s standard production pieces, underscoring the manufacture’s uncompromising standards.

Numbered 22 of 38, the present watch is preserved in excellent condition, its stainless steel case lending it an unusual character that sets it apart in the F.P. Journe canon. A true horological milestone, the Résonance remains a testament to F.P. Journe’s mastery of both concept and execution, transforming an elusive natural phenomenon into a reliable wristwatch complication.

Please note that the Certificate of this watch is included with the sale of the box, which is Lot 71.

F.P. Journe

Swiss | 1999
Founded by watchmaker François-Paul Journe in 1999, the F.P. Journe brand is relatively young, but already is as highly regarded by collectors as many distinguished manufacturers with centuries-old heritage. In the minds of the world's savviest collectors, Journe is producing some of the finest wristwatches the market has ever seen. Mastering his craft from restoring historical timepieces, he was the first to create a wristwatch incorporating two escapements that benefit from the phenomenon of resonance — the Chronomètre à Résonance.

Key models include the Résonance, tourbillon wristwatches incorporating a remontoir and the limited edition Vagabondage series. Especially sought-after are his earliest "souscription" watches, made in 1999.
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