Initially envisioned as the timepiece designed for Francois-Paul Journe himself, the Chronomètre Optimum encapsulates the very essence of precision in Journe’s watchmaking ethos. With the intention to concisely deliver the most accurate and sustainable measurement of time, the conception of the original idea began in 2001 and was reworked until it finally reached production in 2012.

Like the Souverain, the Optimum is equipped with a double-barrel layout that operates in parallel. The present model is also fitted with the Tourbillon’s one-second rementoir d'egalité system, which is on display in the aperture on the dial side, and provides a constant force to the escapement, governing the transfer of power between the mainspring and the escapement. Remarkably engineered, the patented, EBHP direct-impulse bi-axial escapement is fully functional without the need for oil or any type of lubrication. A gift that keeps on giving, the Chronomètre Optimum is further fitted with a dead-beat seconds, displayed on the reverse of the watch.

The present platinum Chronomètre Optimum is framed in a 40mm case, with only a handful of Chronomètre Optimum previously appeared in auction, the present well-preserved example from circa 2014, accompanied by its original accessories, is highly rare.