Manufacturer: F.P. Journe Year: 2005 Case No: No. 44/69V Model Name: Vagabondage I Material: Platinum, 18k gold movement Bracelet/Strap: Crocodile Clasp/Buckle: 18k white gold folding deployment clasp, signed F.P. Journe Dimensions: 36mm. Diameter Signed:Case and movement signed Accessories:F.P. Journe fitted presentation box, outer packaging and polish cloth.
Catalogue Essay
In 2004, Francois-Paul Journe presented the Vagabondage 1, in a trilogy of white, rose, and yellow gold. They were launched at a charity watch auction for ICM, the Paris based neurological research charity. Almost immediately afterwards, a further limited series of 69 examples were released in platinum. This was the first F.P.Journe watch with a tortue shaped case, rather than the round examples he produced in the past. He produced two effects- a brush finish on the bezel or the alternative with polished beveled edges and sides. Each watch features the 'wandering hour dial' from whence the name Vagabondage is derived.
Founded by watchmaker François-Paul Journe in 1999, the F.P. Journe brand is relatively young, but already is as highly regarded by collectors as many distinguished manufacturers with centuries-old heritage. In the minds of the world's savviest collectors, Journe is producing some of the finest wristwatches the market has ever seen. Mastering his craft from restoring historical timepieces, he was the first to create a wristwatch incorporating two escapements that benefit from the phenomenon of resonance — the Chronomètre à Résonance.
Key models include the Résonance, tourbillon wristwatches incorporating a remontoir and the limited edition Vagabondage series. Especially sought-after are his earliest "souscription" watches, made in 1999.