F.P. Journe - The New York Watch Auction: EIGHT New York Saturday, June 10, 2023 | Phillips

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  • Manufacturer: F.P. Journe
    Year: 2015
    Case No: No. 142-CO
    Model Name: Chronomètre Optimum Black Label
    Material: Platinum
    Calibre: Manual, cal. 1510, 44 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Crocodile
    Clasp/Buckle: Platinum F.P. Journe pin buckle
    Dimensions: 40mm Diameter
    Signed: Case, dial, movement, and buckle signed.
    Accessories: Accompanied by F.P. Journe Certificat de Garantie confirming this Chronomètre Optimum was one of two Black Label pieces produced for the Hong Kong boutique in 2015, instruction manual for the model, polishing cloth, fitted presentation box, and outer box.

  • Catalogue Essay

    The first Chronomètre Optimum Black Label to be offered at Phillips, the present example is confirmed by F.P. Journe as being one of only two Black Label pieces produced for the Hong Kong boutique in 2015.

    The Chronomètre Optimum was first conceived as an idea in 2001, however the first example was not released until 2012. Adopting concepts from other Journe models, like the double barrel layout of the Chronomètre Souverain, and the rementoir d'egalité system of his Tourbillon wristwatch, the Optimum is Journe’s “ultimate” chronometer operating with the least amount of friction to maintain “optimum” chronometric performance over years of use.

    The solid 18 karat pink gold movement features a patented ‘EBHP’ direct impulse escapement with a bi-axial design, and remontoire for accuracy and constant force. The movement functions without lubrication, and the two escape wheels allow for lower impact during the transfer of energy, which over time ensures more reliability and less wear. The remontoir d'egalité system is made from lightweight titanium and connected to the additional dead-beat seconds indicator displayed on the backside of the movement. The movement is capable of 70-hours of power reserve when fully wound, with 50 hours possible without loss of amplitude.

    Manufactured in pink gold and platinum, as well as in 40mm and 42mm case diameters, the Chronomètre Optimum is a technical marvel that Journe believes will continue to keep accurate time for hundreds of years with proper care and maintenance. Originally offered only to the brand’s best clients, this 40mm, platinum, and extremely limited Black Label example is surely one of the rarest and most exciting iterations. Further enhancing its appeal, it is presented with its original guarantee and accessories.

  • 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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Σ44

An extraordinarily rare and technically impressive "Black Label" platinum chronometer wristwatch with deadbeat seconds, power reserve indicator, guarantee, and presentation box

2015
40mm Diameter
Case, dial, movement, and buckle signed.

Estimate
$80,000 - 160,000 
CHF72,000-144,000
€74,000-148,000
HK$625,000-1,250,000
S$108,000-215,000

Sold for $279,400

Contact Specialist

Paul Boutros
Head of Watches, Americas
+1 (212) 940-1293
WatchesNY@Phillips.com
 
Isabella Proia
Head of Sale, New York
+1 (212) 940 1285
iproia@phillips.com

The New York Watch Auction: EIGHT

New York Auction 10 - 11 June 2023