Dr. Ito's thorough analysis of mechanical watches!! Vol.6 ~ What's so great about [FP Journe]?

Good evening, everyone!

This column discusses mechanical watches from an engineer's perspective. For our sixth installment, we will be discussing:

"What's so great about F.P. Journe?"

We'll be exploring this topic today.

* "Santiagraphe Souveraine"

F.P. Journe is a high-end watch brand that has seen a series of ultra-high-priced bids at international auctions in recent years. Founded by the genius watchmaker François-Paul Journe, the watches created with his unique technology have been cherished by many celebrities and watch enthusiasts for years.

But what exactly is it about F.P. Journe that receives such high acclaim?

I believe it stems from his "extraordinary dedication to quality from a watch engineer's perspective." So, this time, for those who are not very familiar with F.P. Journe or have overlooked it, I'd like to clearly unravel and explain the points for which it is highly regarded. After reading this, you will undoubtedly see the watches in a new light, so please read to the very end!

What is F.P. Journe?

F.P. Journe is an emerging brand founded in Switzerland in 1999 by François-Paul Journe (born in France in 1957), one of the leading independent watchmakers of our time. It has garnered significant attention in recent years for its unique designs. However, because the cases and dials are manufactured in-house, the annual production is a mere 900 pieces. It is also recognized as a highly rare brand that is seldom seen in the market.

In addition to its unique design, the absence of model numbers (references) sets F.P. Journe apart from other watch brands, possibly reflecting the brand's philosophy.

As a side note, the Tokyo boutique in Omotesando was the world's first F.P. Journe boutique and is located in a building designed by the internationally renowned architect Tadao Ando. Journe himself was reportedly fond of the location and decided to open his boutique there.

*The F.P. Journe Tokyo boutique in the Collezione building in Omotesando.

1. Dedication to Movement

※Movement of the "Santiagraphe Souveraine"

While F.P. Journe is often noted for its complex mechanisms due to the development of numerous original movements, it also places strong emphasis on "beauty" even in relatively simpler pieces. A symbol of this is the 18K gold movement. Since 2004, 18K gold has also been used for the main parts (large components such as plates and bridges), and since then, all watches feature 18K gold.

*Movement of the "Chronometer Blue"

F.P. Journe movements are known not only for their beauty but also for their ultra-high precision. François-Paul Journe is famous as an innovative watchmaker, but he actually has a passionate commitment to the practicality of watches more than anyone else.

"A luxury watch is about how earnestly one can love the act of timekeeping."

From these words he left behind, we can sense his strong dedication to accuracy and reliability, and as an engineer myself, I empathize with his stance. Even in an age where the importance of the original function of "telling time" is somewhat fading, his unwavering commitment to this policy is truly admirable.

2. Dedication to Cases

※Thin case of the "Chronomètre Souverain"

The fundamental philosophy for cases is "the thinner the case, the more elegant," constantly striving to create the ultimate dress watch.

Generally, the thinner a watch case is, the more difficult and costly it is to manufacture. Furthermore, to make a case thin, the movement must also be thin. Therefore, most watch manufacturers typically make their cases with a certain thickness to balance cost. However, F.P. Journe prioritizes "beauty" above all else. They disregard cost, seeking only elegance.

* "Chronomètre Bleu"

It's also important to note that, beyond mere "beauty," emphasis is placed on durability and strength, with mechanisms designed to be as simple as possible to minimize malfunctions. Even if a watch looks good, low practicality or frequent malfunctions can tend to decrease its asset value. F.P. Journe's high reliability ensures peace of mind in this regard.

3. Dedication to Dials

※ "Linesport Octa Sport ARS 2"

It's no exaggeration to say that the most important point of dedication is the dial balance. While dress watches with thin cases often feature simple designs, Journe pursues distinctive dials. Simple designs appeal to many, but they can make a watch seem ordinary. Therefore, through meticulous research, they have established a dial design constructed with exquisite balance, striving to create watches that combine both legibility and practicality.

Representative Models

1. Chronomètre Souverain

The "Chronomètre Souverain," equipped with a manual-winding (Cal. 1304) 18KRG (rose gold) movement, is lauded as a masterpiece by F.P. Journe.

It features a twin barrel, offering high precision and approximately 56 hours of power reserve. With off-center indexes and a finely guilloché-engraved dial, this piece encapsulates the charm of F.P. Journe.

2. Octa Divine

The "Octa Divine" has been re-imagined for a 42mm size.

Featuring a large instantaneous date display, disc-based seconds and power reserve indications, and a moon phase display, this piece is captivating with the beauty of F.P. Journe's distinctive blued steel hands and polished steel frames screwed onto the dial. Furthermore, the small seconds, which adopt a new display method, and the uniquely balanced arrangement of numbers are also distinctive and appealing features.

Summary

How was it?

F.P. Journe is a brand that has developed numerous innovative mechanisms, often drawing attention for the originality of its movements. However, it is also a brand that holds a strong passion for the inherent essence of watches: "practicality" and "beauty." Furthermore, given its low production numbers for a brand with so many enthusiasts worldwide, it might be the perfect choice for those looking for a luxury watch that stands out from the rest.

I hope this article provides valuable information for everyone and sparks even a little interest in luxury watches! If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask us directly. We look forward to your visit and inquiries.

Stay tuned for the next installment! See you then!