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Lot Essay
In superb and original condition, with a charming yellow dial, the present F.P. Journe Tourbillon Souverain belongs to the highly sought-after Reference T series and represents a third-generation example of the model. Consigned by the family of the original owner, a discerning collector with a particular appreciation for complicated wristwatches and purchased on Christmas 2000, its number, 070/01T, certifies that it is the 70th watch in the series.
Until the launch of the Reference TN or Tourbillon Nouveau in April 2004, the Tourbillon Souverain was powered by the rhodium-plated brass calibre 1498. From 2004 onwards, this was replaced by the 18k gold calibre 1403. Early models, such as the present timepiece with a brass movement, are therefore highly valued by collectors and are now recognized as significant historical turning points in the development of the brand.
Introduced at Baselworld in 1999, the Tourbillon Souverain Reference T holds a special place in F.P. Journe’s history as the brand’s first series-production watch, following the success of the initial group of 20 Souscription pieces. Additionally, the model was the first wristwatch to use a remontoire d'égalité, a constant-force mechanism that controls how much energy is transferred from the mainspring to the escapement. This invention significantly improves chronometric stability by guaranteeing constant torque to the tourbillon over the watch's 42-hour power reserve.
François-Paul Journe's technical and aesthetic philosophy, the development of a completely contemporary, extremely intricate wristwatch with a strong foundation in the great traditions of classical horology, is superbly embodied by the combination of the tourbillon and remontoire d'égalité.
Within the Reference T series, four distinct dial generations have been identified:
First generation
Souscription series: limited to just 20 pieces, sold to collectors who prepaid prior to completion. These watches are numbered 1⁄20 to 20⁄20 on both dial and case, with dials signed only 'Invenit et Fecit / F.P. Journe'. The remontoire cock is rounded.
Second generation
The first true Reference T production watches. Dials are signed 'Invenit et Fecit / F.P. Journe' and 'Remontoir d’Égalité'. As with the Souscription series, the remontoire cock remains rounded.
Third generation
Characterised by enlarged power reserve numerals, now almost matching the size of the minute numerals, and a flat remontoire cock, such as on the present timepiece.
Fourth generation
Distinguished by smaller dial screws, marking the final evolution of the Reference T dial design.
As a third-generation example from this foundational series, the present Tourbillon Souverain stands as a cornerstone of early F.P. Journe production and a compelling expression of the brand’s formative years.
Until the launch of the Reference TN or Tourbillon Nouveau in April 2004, the Tourbillon Souverain was powered by the rhodium-plated brass calibre 1498. From 2004 onwards, this was replaced by the 18k gold calibre 1403. Early models, such as the present timepiece with a brass movement, are therefore highly valued by collectors and are now recognized as significant historical turning points in the development of the brand.
Introduced at Baselworld in 1999, the Tourbillon Souverain Reference T holds a special place in F.P. Journe’s history as the brand’s first series-production watch, following the success of the initial group of 20 Souscription pieces. Additionally, the model was the first wristwatch to use a remontoire d'égalité, a constant-force mechanism that controls how much energy is transferred from the mainspring to the escapement. This invention significantly improves chronometric stability by guaranteeing constant torque to the tourbillon over the watch's 42-hour power reserve.
François-Paul Journe's technical and aesthetic philosophy, the development of a completely contemporary, extremely intricate wristwatch with a strong foundation in the great traditions of classical horology, is superbly embodied by the combination of the tourbillon and remontoire d'égalité.
Within the Reference T series, four distinct dial generations have been identified:
First generation
Souscription series: limited to just 20 pieces, sold to collectors who prepaid prior to completion. These watches are numbered 1⁄20 to 20⁄20 on both dial and case, with dials signed only 'Invenit et Fecit / F.P. Journe'. The remontoire cock is rounded.
Second generation
The first true Reference T production watches. Dials are signed 'Invenit et Fecit / F.P. Journe' and 'Remontoir d’Égalité'. As with the Souscription series, the remontoire cock remains rounded.
Third generation
Characterised by enlarged power reserve numerals, now almost matching the size of the minute numerals, and a flat remontoire cock, such as on the present timepiece.
Fourth generation
Distinguished by smaller dial screws, marking the final evolution of the Reference T dial design.
As a third-generation example from this foundational series, the present Tourbillon Souverain stands as a cornerstone of early F.P. Journe production and a compelling expression of the brand’s formative years.