Manufacturer: F.P. Journe Year: 2003 Case No: N§ 257-02R Model Name: Chronomètre A Resonance Material: Platinum Calibre: Manual, cal. 1499, 36 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Alligator Clasp/Buckle: Platinum pin buckle signed F.P. Journe Dimensions: 38 mm. Diameter Signed: Case, dial and buckle signed F.P. Journe Accessories: Accompanied by F.P. Journe fitted box, Certificate of Authenticity and user manual
Catalogue Essay
It is rare that a modern watch becomes iconic upon its launch. François Paul Journe’s Chronomètre A Resonance is part of this elite club.
Launched in 2000 the Chronomètre A Resonance had the effect of a tidal wave in the horological world as it was the world’s first wristwatch using the resonance phenomenon. The movement is composed of two independent balances alternatively serving as an “exciter” and “resonator”. When in motion, the balances create the resonance effect and beat in opposition, naturally evening out each other’s discrepancies and thus permitting greater accuracy.
Inspired by the work of the great 18th century watchmaker Antide Janvier, Journe took up the challenge in 1983 to first create a pocket-watch using the resonance phenomenon and followed it with a wristwatch 17 years later.
The present model in platinum with a superb white gold dial eloquently embodies Journe’s inimitable style both in terms of aesthetics and technical mastery. Made from 2000 to 2005, the first generation Chronomètre A Resonance, like the present lot, features rhodium plated brass movements and a 38mm. case. The second generation was housed in a 40mm case with a gold movement. The present lot offers the rare opportunity of obtaining a historically important timepiece that has gone down as one of the most relevant horological breakthroughs of the past decades.
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.