CHRONOGRAPHE RATTRAPANTE MODEL, CIRCA 2023

First unveiled in a unique tantalum case for Only Watch 2017, F.P. Journe’s split-seconds chronograph was subsequently developed for series production and introduced a few months later as part of the manufacture’s LineSport collection. The resulting Chronographe Monopoussoir Rattrapante was offered in four configurations: two in titanium with either anthracite or yellow dials, one in pink gold and one in platinum, such as the present timepiece.

The platinum version is particularly striking, combining a sandblasted 44 mm. platinum case and bracelet with a distinctive ‘blue-mauve’ dial, whose deep bluish-purple tone changes subtly according to the light. Despite the considerable complexity of the split-seconds chronograph, the dial retains the clarity and balanced architecture characteristic of François-Paul Journe’s creations.

At its heart is the manually wound calibre 1518, developed from the calibre 1517 created for the unique Only Watch example. Executed in 18k pink gold, the movement displays the exceptional level of finishing associated with F.P. Journe, including perlage on the baseplate, polished screw heads with chamfered slots, circular striping across the bridges and straight-graining on the steel components.