François-Paul Journe is a modern master who brings technical skill and innovation to wristwatches that are classically designed with a contemporary vibe. His company was established in 1999 and follows the motto “Invenit et Fecit” ([He] invented it and made it), an indication the brands’ watches are both designed and produced in house. With the “Souverain” collection, Journe presented his first time only wristwatch. Offered in several variations, these timepieces were a tribute to chronometric precision, with an innovative movement based on traditional chronometers, but a dial design with a 21st-century aesthetic.

The “Havana” has a brown guilloche dial with large hour and minute hands that are easily readable, with the power reserve and seconds indications placed at 3 o’clock and 7 to 8 o’clock, respectively. Developed by Journe’s own dial maker, Les Cadraniers de Genève, the unique brown colour is a combination of gold and ruthenium that underwent rigorous adjustment to perfect the formula.

Powered by the in-house, manually wound caliber 1304, the movement is made of 18 karat pink gold and features a central twin barrel for 56 hours of power reserve. The present pink gold example is in excellent condition and offered with its warranty certificate and presentation box. The “Souverain” is contemporary and classic and is a perfect match between the genius of its creator and 21st-century horology.