F.P. Journe whose creations embody the glory of 18th century watchmaking took the horological world by surprise when in 2011 he introduced a “Sports “ line of models in ultra-light aluminum cases and as the names implied a more sporty dial configuration and colors. According to Journe the collection was inspired by an important collector of the brand, himself a dedicated sportsman, looking for an ultra-light sports watch with a haute horlogerie movement.

The present watch is part of an ultra-limited run of only 99 watches made in 2012 (from numbers 501-599) to celebrate the famed Formula 1 driver Jean Alesi’s participation in the Indianapolis 500 Miles race. Made in blackened aluminum, 29 pieces featured the Indy 500, Lotus and Jean Alesi logos on the dial whereas the other 70, like the present lot did not.

Featuring large luminescent Arabic numerals, power reserve indicator, large date and day/night indicator the red elements give the watch a definitely active look. Impressively not only is the case made of ultra-light blackened aluminum but even more surprisingly the movement as well, the latter finished beautifully with polished angles and Geneva waves. An amazing technical feat leading to the fact that the watch weights less than 55 grams…strap included!

The present Octa Automatique Réserve Sport Indy 500 features all the elements one can expect from Journe and so much more, it is elegant, resolutely contemporary with an impeccably designed and finished movement in a material rarely- if ever seen in contemporary watchmaking.