F.P. Journe
An impressive and attractive platinum dual-time chronometer wristwatch with small seconds, double escapement, power reserve indication, and white gold dial
Manufacturer : F.P. Journe
Year : Circa 2005
Case No : 128-RN
Model Name : Chronomètre à Résonance
Material : Platinum
Calibre : Manual, cal. 1499.2, 36 jewels
Bracelet/Strap : Leather
Clasp/Buckle : Platinum F.P. Journe pin buckle
Dimensions : 40mm Diameter
Signed : Case, dial, movement and buckle signed Inspired by the work of the great 18th century watchmaker Antide Janvier, and certainly the influence of Abraham-Louis Breguet, Journe took up the challenge beginning in 1983 to first create a pocket-watch using the resonance phenomenon and followed it with a wristwatch 16 years later: the world’s first wristwatch to feature the resonance phenomenon. The movement is composed of two independent balances, alternatively serving as an “exciter” and “resonator”. When in motion, the balances create the resonance effect and beat in synchrony, naturally evening out each other’s discrepancies and thus permitting greater accuracy. Two individual 12-hour dials, each with its own small seconds, center the dial architecture.
The present Chronomètre á Résonance is an early, second-generation example, as denoted by the reference shift from R (“resonance”) to RN (“resonance nouvelle”), with the first 18K rose gold movement, the caliber 1499.2. The 1499.2 was in production for a very limited time right after Journe transitioned away from rhodium-plated brass movements, likely only between 2005 and 2006. After this period, the 1499.2 was replaced by the 1499.3 distinguished by a different power reserve. The reference RN was discontinued in 2009, and with the combination of an early, symmetrical dial layout, early transitional movement, and overall well-balanced aesthetics, these examples of the renowned Résonance have become highly sought after by collectors.
Offered in excellent overall condition with hardly any signs of wear, the subtle elegance of the white gold dial against the cool platinum case of the present timepiece conveys a restrained opulence suitable for the modern collector.
