Manufacturer: F.P. Journe Year: Circa 2003 Case No: 126-RN Model Name: Chronomètre A Resonance Material: Platinum Calibre: Manual, cal. 1499, 36 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Crocodile Clasp/Buckle: 18k white gold F. P. Journe deployant buckle Dimensions: 40mm. Diameter Signed: Case, dial, movement and clasp signed Accessories: Accompanied by F.P Journe Certificate of Authenticity.
Catalogue Essay
“Invenit et Fecit” Latin for “I invented it and I made it” has long been the motto inscribed on every F. P. Journe before it leaves the atelier of the famed genius and watchmaker F. P. Journe. With an eye on technical innovation for superior timekeeping, the Journe brand has since 1999 created watches that are both beautifully designed and technical works of art. The Chronomètre à Résonance is pure Journe at heart, taking its inspiration from the 18th century clockmaker Antide Janiver who put two clocks side by side to see if the vibrations of one would regulate the other. The caliber 1499 uses two balance wheels beating in synchrony with each other and the result is resonance eliminating deviation and increase better timekeeping. Released in 2000, the Chronomètre à Résonance was an immediate success both for its elegant layout and masterful movement.
The present watch is from the second generation with a larger 40mm diameter case and 18K gold movement, while the first generation had a smaller 38mm sized case and brass movement. In exceptional unpolished condition, the watch has a sleek modern aesthetic that will please collectors for both its design and its technology.
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.