In 2000, F.P. Journe took the horological world by surprise with the introduction of the first-ever wristwatch incorporating two resonating escapements, the movement being composed of two independent balances, alternatively serving as an “exciter” and “resonator”. Simply summarised, the idea behind a resonance timepiece is that two independent escapements placed in close proximity influence and synchronise with one another, the two synced escapements being more resilient to disturbances than a single escapement. Two escapements united are less prone to error.

In celebration of the 20th anniversary of this mechanical masterpieces Journe added another of his mechanical signatures to the Chronomètre à Resonance: the Remontoire d’Egalité.

This device first found in his original tourbillon wristwatch is a constant force device used to provide an equal amount of energy disregarding the winding level of the mainspring, thus resulting in greater accuracy and amplitude. This was the very first time this system, invented by John Harrison for the H2 marine chronometer, was ever used in a wristwatch.

The new Chronomètre à Résonance has one barrel spring to provide power for two movements. A differential placed on the first wheel, visible via an aperture in the centre of the dial, transmits the energy of the barrel spring towards the two secondary gear trains. Each secondary gear train is equipped with a one second remontoire d’égalité. As such the force received by the escapements remains linear and assures full accuracy and isochronism.

The new Chronomètre à Resonance features a redesigned case with the winding and setting crown now placed at 2 o’clock (previously this crown was placed at 12 o’clock) increasing the ease of winding and setting. The dial is also novel as the left subdial indicates time on 24 hours whereas the right dial indicates time on a more classical 12-hour format.

Featuring two of Journe’s signature mechanical creations (Resonance and Remontoire d’Egalité) the present timepiece is an incredible horological gem merging mind boggling mechanics with a clean perfectly harmonious design.

Launched in 2020 the new Chronomètre à Resonance already has a five year plus waiting list, the present example is to the best of our knowledge the first to grace the international auction market and is presented in almost unworn condition with its full set of accessories.