Fascinated by the tourbillon and inspired by Abraham-Louis Breguet’s invention, François-Paul Journe set out not only to translate the complication into a wristwatch, but to enhance it. His vision included integrating a remontoire d’égalité—a constant force mechanism that delivers steady power to the escapement regardless of the mainspring’s tension, improving accuracy. It was the first time both innovations had ever been combined in a wristwatch.

In 2001, two years after launching his Tourbillon Souverain à Remontoire d’Égalité, Journe introduced a special version housed in a 40mm case—larger than the 38mm standard at the time—and treated with a striking ruthenium coating across both the dial and movement. This marked the birth of the "Ruthenium Collection,” a series that bridged the transition between Journe’s early brass calibers and the 18k pink gold movements that would become the brand’s signature.

Produced between 2001 and 2005, the Ruthenium Collection includes five models: the Octa Jour/Nuit, Octa Calendrier, Octa Chronographe, Chronomètre à Résonance, and the Tourbillon Souverain—the present watch. Each was limited to just 99 pieces and is now considered among the most collectible early Journe creations. This Tourbillon Souverain, number 57 of the edition, features a ruthenium-coated brass caliber 1498 and matching ruthenium-coated white gold dial, which retains the signature glow and depth of Journe’s earliest dials. Accompanied by its Certificate and presentation box, it remains the only version of the Tourbillon with Remontoire ever produced in a 40mm case—an exceptional piece from one of contemporary watchmaking’s most revered minds.