In 2001, F.P. Journe introduced his automatic “Octa” movement, which today, over 20 years later, remains a favorite among collectors. The caliber 1300 of the “Octa” models features a seven-day power reserve but is only presented as 120 hours as a chronometer, since past that duration, the linear energy flow needed for chronometry isn’t mechanically guaranteed. The caliber was introduced with a brass movement, however it was redesigned in 2004 as the 1300.2, using an 18-karat rose gold movement, then changed once again in 2007 to the 1300.3, with a uni-directional winding rotor, opposed to the original’s bi-directional winding.

The Octa Chronograph was the world’s first automatic flyback chronometer chronograph with oversized date window. The Octa Chronograph was also the first Journe model to be discontinued, when it was replaced by the Centigraphe Souverain chronograph in 2007.

Produced in two series, the first with the caliber 1300 with brass movement like the present watch, and the second 1300.2 with 18K gold movement, it is a wonderful reinterpretation of a chronograph. The asymmetrical dial, with large time indication to the right side of the dial, is offset by the smaller 60-minute dial to the left side.

A very early example dating from 2003 with serial number 090, the present watch bears a shimmery, grainy-textured white gold dial in a 38mm platinum case, making it one of the most desirable configurations for Octa Chronographs cherished by collectors. Offered in exemplary condition, the visually stunning dial pairs with the ingenious movement to achieve horological excellence.