Good evening everyone!
This column talks about mechanical watches from an engineer's point of view. This is the sixth installment.
"What's so great about [FP Journe]?"
I will be talking about this topic.
※ "Sentigraph Souverain"
FP Journe is a luxury watch brand that has seen a string of extremely high bids at overseas auctions in recent years.
This watch brand was founded by the genius watchmaker François-Paul Journe, and the watches created using his unique techniques have been loved by many celebrities and watch enthusiasts for many years.
By the way, what is it about FP Journe that is so highly rated?
I believe this is due to his "extraordinary commitment to quality as a watchmaker." So, this time, for those who don't know much about FP Journe or have overlooked it, I would like to explain in an easy-to-understand way the points that are appreciated by them. If you look at a watch after reading this, it will definitely look a little different, so please read to the end!
What is [FP Journe]?
This emerging brand was founded in Switzerland in 1999 by François-Paul Journe (born in France in 1957), one of the leading independent watchmakers of the modern era, and has been attracting a lot of attention in recent years for its unique designs. However, because the cases and dials are manufactured in-house, the number of units produced per year is very small, at around 900. It is also recognized as a rare and valuable brand that is rarely seen on the market.
In addition to the unique design, the fact that the brand does not have a model number (reference) sets it apart from other watch brands, and this may be woven into the brand's philosophy.
As an aside, the Tokyo boutique in Omotesando is the first of its kind in the world, and is housed in a building designed by world-renowned architect Tadao Ando. Apparently Journe himself liked the location and opened it.
*FP Journe Tokyo boutique located in the Collezione Building in Omotesando
1. Attention to movement
* Movement of the "Sentigraph Souverain"
FP Journe has developed many unique movements and is often noted for their complex mechanisms, but they also have a strong commitment to "beauty" even in relatively simple items, and the symbol of this is the movement that uses 18K gold. Since 2004, 18K gold has been used for the main parts (large parts called plates and bridges), and since then, all of the watches are made of 18K gold.
* "Chronometer Blue" movement
The FP Journe movement is known not only for its beauty but also for its ultra-high precision. François-Paul Journe is famous as an original watchmaker, but he has a stronger passion for the practicality of watches than anyone else.
"A high-quality watch is one that truly expresses a love for the act of measuring time."
From these words, we can see his strong commitment to precision and reliability, and as an engineer myself, I can empathize with his attitude. Even in today's world where the importance of the original function of "measuring time" is somewhat fading, I take my hat off to his spirit of adhering to that policy.
2. Attention to detail in the case
*The thin case of the "Chronometer Souverain"
Our basic philosophy regarding cases is that "a thin case is elegant," and we always strive to create the best dress watch.
Generally speaking, the thinner a watch case is, the more difficult it is to manufacture, and the higher the cost. Also, to make the case thinner, the movement must also be made thinner, so most watch manufacturers make the case a certain thickness in order to balance costs.
However, FP Journe is committed to beauty above all else. They are committed to elegance, regardless of cost.
* "Chronometer Blue"
Not only are they beautiful, but they also place importance on durability and strength, and by designing the mechanism as simply as possible, they reduce the chance of malfunction. Even if a watch looks good, if it is not practical or breaks down frequently, its asset value tends to decrease. FP Journe is highly reliable, so you can rest assured in that regard.
3. Attention to detail in the dial
* "Line Sports Octa Sports ARS 2"
It is no exaggeration to say that the most important aspect is the balance of the dial. Usually, dress watches with thin cases tend to have simple designs, but Journe strives for original dials. Simple designs are popular with everyone, but they end up making a mundane watch. That is why, through meticulous research, they have established dial designs that are constructed with an exquisite sense of balance, and are committed to manufacturing watches that are not only easy to read but also practical.
Representative model
1. Chronometer Souverain
The Chronometer Souverain is considered a masterpiece by FP Journe and is equipped with a hand-wound (Cal. 1304) 18KRG (rose gold) movement.
It features a twin barrel, high precision and a power reserve of approximately 56 hours. This is a masterpiece that encapsulates the charm of FP Journe, with off-center indexes and a dial with fine guilloche engraving.
2. Octa Divine
The Octa Divine has been reimagined for the 42mm size.
This watch features a large instantaneous date display, a disc displaying seconds, power reserve, and moon phases, and is attractive for its beautiful blued steel hands, which are unique to FP Journe, and the polished steel frame screwed onto the dial. In addition, the small seconds hand uses a new display method, and the numbers are uniquely balanced and arranged, making it a distinctive and attractive feature.
summary
What did you think.
FP Journe has developed many groundbreaking mechanisms and is a brand that often draws attention for the originality of its movements, but in fact it is also a brand that has a strong passion for the original purpose of watches: practicality and beauty. In addition, for a brand with many fans around the world, the number of watches produced is small, so it may be perfect for those looking for a luxury watch that is different from others.
We hope that this article has been useful to you and has piqued your interest in luxury watches! If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us directly and we will be happy to answer them. We look forward to your visit and inquiries.
Look forward to the next one! See you next time!