Francois-Paul Journe’s Chronomètre à Resonance was launched with the first breaths of the new millennium and immediately caught the attention of connoisseurs and enthusiasts. However, this model, especially in its 38mm and brass movement livery has reached the peaks of collectability and cult status in the past years and quite rightly so.

Journe’s quest of chronometry and accuracy inspired him to use a system originally devised by the great 18th century watchmaker Antide Janvier and for the first time miniaturize it into pocket watch format first in 1983 and push the boundaries into creating a wristwatch 17 years later.

The caliber 1499 uses two balance wheels beating in synchrony with each other and the result is resonance eliminating deviation and increase better timekeeping. Launched in 2000 the Chronomètre à Resonance had the effect of a tidal wave in the horological world as it was the world’s first wristwatch using the resonance phenomenon. The movement is composed of two independent balances alternatively serving as an “exciter” and “resonator”. When in motion, the balances create the resonance effect and beat in opposition, naturally evening out each other’s discrepancies and thus permitting greater accuracy.

Made from 2000 to 2005, the first generation Chronomètre à Resonance, like the present lot, features rhodium plated brass movements and a 38mm case. The second generation was housed in a 40mm case with a gold movement.

The present example from circa 2003 in platinum with an attractively aged copper dial is a sight to behold. Not only does it come from its desirable early generation of the model, but it is also further complimented by its full set of accessories. With the ever-increasing demand and interest for early Journe pieces, the present example is right up its alley.