F.P. Journe - The Hong Kong Watch Auction: XVIII Hong Kong Friday, May 24, 2024 | Phillips
  • Manufacturer: F.P. Journe
    Year: Circa 2002
    Case No: 220-02R
    Model Name: Chronomètre à Résonance
    Material: Platinum
    Calibre: Manual, cal. 1499, 36 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Leather
    Clasp/Buckle: Platinum F.P. Journe pin buckle
    Dimensions: 38mm diameter
    Signed: Case, dial, movement and buckle signed
    Accessories: Accompanied by undated F.P. Journe warranty stamped Sincere Watch Ltd Singapore, 2 additional crocodile straps, instruction manual, service invoice, slip case, fitted presentation box and outer packaging.

  • Catalogue Essay

    Introduced in the year 2000, the Chronomètre à Résonance immediately captivated collectors worldwide with its impeccably designed dial and most notably, its double balance wheel. This model, particularly in its 38mm case and brass movement configuration, has achieved the pinnacle of collectability and has become a cult favorite throughout the years.

    Journe's pursuit of chronometry and accuracy led him to incorporate a system originally conceived by the renowned 18th-century watchmaker Antide Janvier and Abraham-Louis Breguet. Pushing the boundaries of innovative watchmaking, Journe successfully created a miniaturized modern wristwatch that harnessed the power of resonance.

    As the world's first wristwatch to utilize the resonance phenomenon, the caliber 1499 employs two balance wheels—one acting as an "exciter" and the other as a "resonator." By beating in synchrony and opposition to each other, they create a resonance effect that naturally eliminates deviations and enhances accuracy.

    Produced from 2000 to 2004, the first-generation Chronomètre à Résonance, like the present lot, features a highly sought-after rhodium-plated brass movement housed within a perfect 38mm case. Subsequent generations transitioned to pink gold movements, a design that continues to this day.

    The present example encased in platinum made in circa 2002 showcases an attractively aged white gold dial that is truly a sight to behold. Not only does it belong to the desirable early generation of this model, but it is also accompanied by a full set of accessories. With the ever-growing demand and interest in early Journe pieces, the present example is highly coveted by collectors and aligns perfectly in today’s watchmaking vision.

  • Artist Biography

    F.P. Journe

    Swiss • 1999

    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.

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Σ865

An early, very fine and rare platinum dual-time wristwatch with double escapement, power reserve indication, brass movement, warranty and presentation box

Circa 2002
38mm diameter
Case, dial, movement and buckle signed

Estimate
HK$940,000 - 1,800,000 
€113,000-216,000
$121,000-231,000

Sold for HK$1,524,000

Contact Specialist

Thomas Perazzi
Deputy Chairman, Watches, Head of Watches, Asia
+852 2318 2031
WatchesHK@phillips.com
 

Gertrude Wong
Head of Sale, Hong Kong
+ 852 2318 2045
gertrudewong@phillips.com
 

The Hong Kong Watch Auction: XVIII

Hong Kong Auction 24 - 25 May 2024