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Lot Essay
Part of the highly exclusive Boutique Collection, the present Chronometre Souverain was available only through the brand’s own boutiques, making it far rarer than the standard production models. From the collection of an important private collector, the present example is from the last year of this sought-after reference, having been produced between 2010 and 2024. Collectors of F.P. Journe highly value boutique editions due to their particularly appealing combination of a black dial and an 18k pink gold case.
The model, which is regarded as one of the manufacturer's modern masterpieces, is praised for its tasteful proportions and subtle elegance, which make it the perfect everyday companion. 'I would have to say the Chronometre Souverain is my favorite, since it is the watch I wanted to do from the beginning', said François-Paul Journe. This statement perfectly captures the watch's philosophy, which combines the brand's unique aesthetic with the purity of chronometric precision.
The Chronometre Souverain
The model is powered by an exceptionally thin, hand-wound movement crafted entirely from 18k pink gold, a hallmark of the brand’s modern calibres. The movement, which is only 3.7 mm thick and beats at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour, was inspired by the accuracy of early 19th-century marine chronometers. Its twin-barrel design ensures exceptional chronometric stability and a steady energy flow to the gear train for over 50 hours.
The 56-hour power reserve indicator is positioned at 3 o'clock in the unusual and harmonious dial layout, which is counterbalanced by the small seconds at 7 o'clock. This distinctive asymmetry has become one of the defining characteristics of the Chronomètre Souverain. Its reputation as a modern classic was further solidified when the model was awarded the Best Men’s Watch Prize at the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève in 2005.
The model, which is regarded as one of the manufacturer's modern masterpieces, is praised for its tasteful proportions and subtle elegance, which make it the perfect everyday companion. 'I would have to say the Chronometre Souverain is my favorite, since it is the watch I wanted to do from the beginning', said François-Paul Journe. This statement perfectly captures the watch's philosophy, which combines the brand's unique aesthetic with the purity of chronometric precision.
The Chronometre Souverain
The model is powered by an exceptionally thin, hand-wound movement crafted entirely from 18k pink gold, a hallmark of the brand’s modern calibres. The movement, which is only 3.7 mm thick and beats at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour, was inspired by the accuracy of early 19th-century marine chronometers. Its twin-barrel design ensures exceptional chronometric stability and a steady energy flow to the gear train for over 50 hours.
The 56-hour power reserve indicator is positioned at 3 o'clock in the unusual and harmonious dial layout, which is counterbalanced by the small seconds at 7 o'clock. This distinctive asymmetry has become one of the defining characteristics of the Chronomètre Souverain. Its reputation as a modern classic was further solidified when the model was awarded the Best Men’s Watch Prize at the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève in 2005.