To celebrate the 30th anniversary of the completion of his first tourbillon pocketwatch, François-Paul Journe decided to produce 99 examples of a wristwatch wholly inspired by his first great feat. Subsequently named the Tourbillon Anniversaire Historique, the present example is numbered 26 of 99 and comes directly from the collection of the original owner. The layout of the dial replicates that of the original pocket watch almost exactly, only shrunk to fit a 40mm case. To recreate the pocket watch dial, Journe employed the technique of engraving the dial and then filling the engravings with lacquer, a process usually associated with the finest vintage watches. The unorthodox combination of 18K rose gold and silver – with the former used for case elements that would see more wear, such as the bezel, caseback band, and crown, and the latter used for most of the case, including the lugs and the outer caseback. A brilliant, radiating guilloché pattern encircles the number of the watch on the outside of the hinged, hunter caseback.
An unusual metal for use in a wristwatch, silver is rarely used in the present day as it tarnishes easily. Journe chose to use silver despite its disadvantages as a nod to the silver used in his original pocket watch. The case was not plated in any way to protect against the elements, and so each example of the T30 has developed its own unique patina. The elegant tourbillon movement, rendered in gilt brass, is more highly finished than typical Journe watches, with hand finishing used on elements of the tourbillon cage, and oversized blued steel slotted screws. The architecture of the movement is one of complete symmetry, and magnificent to behold.
The entire watch evokes a bygone era of watchmaking, of the most historically significant timepieces created by Breguet. To this day, the T30 is one of two tourbillon models ever produced by Journe where the movement is hidden from the back of the watch. A retrospective by the watchmaker, a tribute to passion, and a toast to humble beginnings, the present T30 is one of the most important timepieces that a Journe collector can own.
All proceeds from the hammer price result will be donated by the consignor to UNICEF.
PROPERTY FROM THE ORIGINAL OWNER
