Manufacturer: F.P. Journe Year: 2001 Case No: 31/99 - 01R Model Name: Chronomètre à Resonance Material: Platinum Calibre: Manual, cal. 1499, 36 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Alligator Clasp/Buckle: Platinum pin buckle signed F.P. Journe Dimensions: 40mm Diameter Signed: Case, dial and buckle signed Accessories: Accompanied by F.P Journe Certificate of Authenticity.
Catalogue Essay
François-Paul Journe’s Resonance has become, since its inception in 2000, one of contemporary horology’s most iconic pieces. It was the world’s first wristwatch to use 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.
Inspired by the work of the great 18th century watchmaker Antide Janvier, Journe took up the challenge in 1983 to first create a pocket-watch using the resonance phenomenon and followed it with a wristwatch 17 years later.
Not only a wonderful tribute to technical watchmaking, the Chronomètre à Resonance is also an extremely useful dual time watch.
The present example, one among a 99 piece limited edition series, is significant and different in many ways compared to a regular production model. The case is platinum and the dial and movement are coated in ruthenium giving the watch an amazing post-modern stealth feel. Even more interesting to note is that from 2000 to 2005, the first generation Chronomètre A Resonance featured rhodium plated brass movements and a 38mm case. The second generation models had a 40mm case with a gold movement.
The present model features a brass movement and 40mm case. This series is the only Resonance model from F.P Journe to feature the present movement and case combination, making it even more singular.
Preserved in overall excellent condition, the present limited edition Chronomètre à Resonance is not only achingly attractive but is a testimony to the creative talent of F.P. Journe.
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.