Manufacturer: F.P. Journe Year: 2018 Case No: 2-298CB Model Name: Chronomètre Bleu Material: Tantalum Calibre: Manual, cal. 1304, 22 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Leather Clasp/Buckle: Tantalum F. P. Journe buckle Dimensions: 39mm diameter Signed: Case, dial, movement and buckle signed Accessories: Accompanied by F. P. Journe International Guarantee dated October 2018 and stamped Boutique F.P Journe Tokyo, wooden presentation box, and outer packaging.
Catalogue Essay
- With its tantalum case featuring a distinctive grey-blue hue and its striking chrome blue dial, F.P. Journe’s Chronomètre Bleu has become one of the most recognizable and sought-after timepieces in modern watchmaking. Combining innovative materials with exceptional chronometric performance, it offers a refined yet bold approach to precision.
- Introduced in 2009 as an entry-level model within his otherwise highly complicated collection, François-Paul Journe once again defied convention. The 39mm case is crafted from tantalum, a rare and challenging metal named after the “Torment of Tantalus” in Greek mythology. Known for its dark grey color with blue overtones, tantalum is rarely used in watchmaking due to its extreme hardness. However, it is prized for its resistance to corrosion and wear.
- The movement is Journe’s caliber 1304 executed in pink gold and displays an equally high standard of execution and finish witnessed on all F.P. Journe wristwatches.
- The chrome blue dial, perfectly complementing the tantalum case, features cream-colored hands and bold Arabic numerals, blending modern aesthetics with timeless elegance. The present example offers a rare opportunity to acquire this iconic timepiece—a true masterpiece of independent watchmaking
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.