F.P. Journe - The Hong Kong Watch Auction: XVII Hong Kong Friday, November 24, 2023 | Phillips

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  • Manufacturer: F.P. Journe
    Year: Circa 2015
    Case No: 27/38-RN
    Model Name: Chronomètre à Résonance, 38mm Steel Set
    Material: Stainless steel
    Calibre: Manual, cal. 1499.3, 40 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Stainless steel F.P Journe deployant clasp
    Clasp/Buckle: Crocodile
    Dimensions: 38mm diameter
    Signed: Case, dial, movement and clasp signed

  • Catalogue Essay

    With an eye on technical innovation for superior timekeeping, F.P. Journe has always sought to create watches that are both beautifully designed and technically sound. With that in mind, the independent horologer has two signature wristwatches that perfectly encapsulates his watchmaking ethos: the Tourbillon Souverain and the Chronomètre á Résonance. Of the two, the Resonance takes precedence for its unique conceptualization and mechanical complexity.

    Inspired by the work of the great 18th century watchmaker Antide Janvier, and ultimately influenced by Abraham-Louis Breguet, Journe took on the challenge in creating the first-ever wristwatch that uses two resonating escapements, placed very closely together, that feed off each other’s dissipating energy. Two is better than one, the synchronised escapements enhance the watch’s precision and are less susceptible to discrepancies than a solitary unit.

    With 38 examples made only, the present Chronomètre á Résonance is no ordinary specimen and is part of the highly coveted limited edition boxset of five emblematic Journe creations. Notably, these watches are the last of their kind that measure at 38mm as F.P. Journe bids farewell to the traditional dress watch case size in 2015. The overall design evokes the original configuration in production from 2000 to 2009 with the most obvious difference in its rare stainless steel case.

    Distinctly different from later examples, the current dial is composed of two symmetrically positioned 12-hour dials, each with their own small seconds subdial. Sandwiched between the two, at the twelve o’clock position, is a power reserve indicator drawing inspiration from marine chronometers of the past. The purpose of this power reserve indicator is reversed, not indicating how many hours of power remain, but rather how many hours since the movement was last wound.

    With the dashing good looks of a first generation Résonance, the movement that powers the present timepiece is identical to the pink gold cal. 1499.3 in the present production. This timepiece stands as a horological dream that harnesses a resonance phenomenon to provide unparalleled chronometric performance and an enduring demonstration of F.P. Journe’s mastery of complex high watchmaking.

    Numbered 27 of a limited edition of 38 pieces, the present stainless steel Chronomètre á Résonance is certainly a peculiar sight for Journe collectors, preserved in “like-new” condition. In addition, it is extremely rare for luxury watches to be encased in steel and other watches from the set, including the Octa Réserve de Marche, the Octa Calendrier, the Chronomètre Souverain and the Tourbillon Souverain are all available in our current auction.

  • Artist Biography

    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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Property from the Original Owner

Σ816

An impressive and highly desirable limited edition stainless steel dual-time chronometer wristwatch with small seconds, double escapement and power reserve indication, numbered 27 of a limited edition of 38 pieces, made to mark the discontinuation of F.P. Journe’s 38mm watches

Circa 2015
38mm diameter
Case, dial, movement and clasp signed

Estimate
HK$950,000 - 1,550,000 
€115,000-188,000
$122,000-199,000

Sold for HK$2,286,000

Contact Specialist

Thomas Perazzi
Deputy Chairman, Watches, Head of Watches, Asia
+852 2318 2001
WatchesHK@phillips.com

The Hong Kong Watch Auction: XVII

Hong Kong Auction 24-25 November 2023