Numbered 99 of a limited edition of 99 pieces, an early and impressive platinum chronometer dual-time wristwatch with double escapement and ruthenium-coated dial, certificate, and presentation box
Manufacturer: F.P. Journe Year: Circa 2001 Case No: No. 99/99-01 R Model Name: Chronomètre à Résonance Material: Platinum Calibre: Manual, cal. 1499, 36 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Leather Clasp/Buckle: Platinum F.P. Journe pin buckle Dimensions: 40mm Diameter Signed: Case, dial, movement, and buckle signed. Accessories: Accompanied by F.P. Journe Certificate of Authenticity and guarantee dated March 14th, 2002, instruction manual, extra 18K white gold and platinum deployant clasp signed F.P. Journe, strap-changing tool, loupe, polishing cloth, fitted presentation box, and outer box. , Swiss • 1999The Ruthenium Collection comprises five models: the Tourbillon Souverain, the Octa Chronographe, the Octa Calendrier, the Octa Réserve de Marche Jour et Nuit and the present watch, the Chronomètre à Resonance. This series concluded F.P. Journe’s brass movement production before moving on to the 18K pink gold movements he uses to this day. Each released as a 99-piece limited edition, the collection was distinguished by ruthenium-coated dials and movement plates, as well as an upgraded 40mm case. Though it is seldom used in watches, this rare inert metal is closely related to the platinum family and is often found in aerospace engineering for its natural resistance to oxidation and resilient hardness.
Manufactured between 2001 and 2005, the Ruthenium Chronomètre á Résonance is certainly a sight to behold, boasting a striking grey dial forged from ruthenium-coated white gold. The charcoal canvas is finely texturised, offering a stimulating addition of depth and dimension to the moody backdrop. Given how this material plays with light, the dial is like a lenticular image that transitions from a metallic silver hue to a muted smoky shade as the wearer admires it from different angles.
Both visually and mechanically impressive, the movement can be observed via its sapphire caseback, revealing a resonance-controlled, twin independent gear-train, straight-line lever escapement, monometallic 4-arm balance with 4 timing weights, self-compensating free-sprung flat balance spring, oscillating at a rate of 21,600 vibrations per hour. The two balance wheels are strategically placed almost touching one another, which forces the dissipated energy of each to be caught by the other – correcting their timing errors and improving their overall accuracy.
Numbered 99 of 99, this Chronomètre à Résonance is a coveted “end piece”, having been sold in 2002. It is complete with all of its original accessories, a unique chance to own a milestone in the production of F.P. Journe wristwatches.
