F.P Journe creations are paradoxical. Born from Journe’s mastermind, the “enfant terrible” of horology, they are the result of a subtle blend of innovation, highly skilled technicality mixed with a dash of madness. Yet, every single piece of his collection honours and salutes watchmaking as an Art.

The Octa Calendrier is no exception. Part of the Octa series, which was first introduced to the world in 2001 with the Octa Reserve de Marche, the present wristwatch houses the famed 5.71mm thick calibre 1300 with an annual calendar complication. Taking three years of research and another two of perfecting it, Journe’s goal was finally realised; to create one unique movement that would be adaptable to add complications.

The Octa Calendrier saw birth in 2002 and was the first F.P. Journe model to win an award at the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève.

Measuring 38mm diameter in pink gold, the present example is an early example of the Octa Calendrier models, featuring its rare and desirable brass movement, which would be replaced by a pink gold movement in 2004. Paired beautifully and tastefully with a shimmering gold dial matching the hue of the case, the main dial indicating the time and small seconds features the firm’s signature silver guilloche dial secured with three screws. The retrograde-style date is indicated via a central hand pointing to the date on a crescent following the edge of the dial. The day of the week and the month are indicated through apertures above and below F.P. Journe’s signature. Practical and well-balanced, yet with an asymmetrical dial, the layout is easily legible and is a feast for the eyes of its beholder.

The F.P. Journe manufacture has confirmed that it will issue a Certificate of Authenticity to the new owner should he/she be willing to register the watch under their name.