F.P. Journe Tourbillon Souverain in Rose Gold
Collection : Tourbillon Souverain
Model Reference : Tourbillon Souverain Rose Gold Salmon Dial
Case/Size : Rose Gold / 40mm
Dial : Matted, partially openworked rose gold dial
Movement : Automatic winding
Functions : Hours, Minutes, Power reserve indicator, Tourbillon
Specificity : Discontinued
Condition / Year : Very Good / Unknown
Box / Papers : Yes / Yes
The history of F.P. Journe goes hand in hand with the story of the Tourbillon collection because his first pocketwatch he made took him 5 years, it had a tourbillon and spring detent escapement, that was back in 1983.
After a few years, in 1991 the first F.P. Journe wristwatch was born, it was a tourbillon with a remontoir d’égalité (constant force device), initially he proposed it to a few big brands but nothing really materialised.
From 1996 he started to develop high end calibers for famous watch brands but was fed up to give, quote : “pearls to swines”, he decided in 1999 to raise money to make his first 20 Tourbillon watches, called : Tourbillon Souverain Souscription.
20 collectors paid 50% to get an individually numbered piece.
The current generation of “ Tourbillon Souverain ” that we know, was made in two major references, the “T” from 1999 to 2004, made in a 38mm case either platinum or rose gold with brass movement, a few limited pieces in ruthenium were made also.
And then from 2004 to 2018 we have the current “ TN ” reference with Remontoir and “Natural Dead Seconds” complication made in 38 and 40mm, also in platinum and rose gold cases but the movement is in rose gold.
The watch won the 2004 Grand Prix de l’Horlogerie de Genève’s award of “ Aiguille d’Or ”.
In 2013, to mark its 30th anniversary of his first tourbillon pocketwatch, he made a limited run of 99 pieces for its most loyal customers, called the Tourbillon Historique (reference T30) with a case made in silver & gold and movement in brass.
The same year a limited edition of 10 pieces called the “T10” to commermorate a decade of Journe’s first Tokyo boutique and the opening of his 10th Beirut boutique. Almost identical to the “T30” but with a platinum case and black and white, and the caliber rose gold.
2015 saw the release of a special 38mm – a 5 watches set in steel which had a tourbillon model also.
Just before discontinuing the “Tourbillon Nouveau”, around twenty pieces were made for VIP collectors featuring a mesmerising ruby dial.
To mark the Tourbillon’s 20th Anniversary in 2019, F.P. Journe introduced a new model called “Tourbillon Souverain Vertical”, 42mm case in platinum and rose gold. The tourbillon cage is unlike the traditional horizontal one, placed vertically for a constant tourbillon function whether the watch lies flat or is placed on its side.
The tourbillon makes a revolution in 30 seconds, twice faster than its
predecessor and therefore visually the effect is astonishing.
When introduced in 1999, the Tourbillon Sourverain was the first serial production watch by F.P. Journe.
F.P. Journe, a venerated name in the realm of haute horlogerie, introduces a masterpiece of intricacy and elegance with the Tourbillon Souverain, encapsulated in a distinguished rose gold case and adorned with a matte yellow dial. This exceptional timepiece, a true epitome of the brand’s innovative spirit and meticulous craftsmanship, speaks volumes about its commitment to pioneering horological excellence.
The matted, partially openworked rose gold dial harmoniously melds technical prowess with aesthetic allure. A distinct visual narrative is formed on the dial, where the union of various textures and shades captivates the observer’s gaze. The right side of the dial hosts silvered elements with legible Arabic numerals and a beautifully executed central guillochage, lending a classic and refined visual appeal. This juxtaposes with the tourbillon on the left, allowing an intimate gaze into the heart of the watch’s mesmerizing mechanics, affirming that beneath its elegant exterior beats a marvel of mechanical ingenuity.
Strategically placed at 12 o’clock, the power reserve indicator provides an intuitive read of the watch’s stored energy, marrying functionality with a visual aesthetic that complements the dial’s overall design. Meanwhile, the jumping small seconds at 6 o’clock adds a dynamic and rhythmic element to the watch’s disposition, creating a delightful visual spectacle as it ticks with remarkable precision.
Engraved onto the masterpiece is “F.P.Journe Invenit et Fecit, Remontoir d’Egalité avec Seconde Morte,” a testament to the brand’s innovative spirit and commitment to creating unique, authentic, and pioneering timepieces. Invenit et Fecit, Latin for “Invented and Made” signifies not merely the creation but the innovation inherent in each F.P. Journe piece. The Tourbillon Souverain isn’t just a timekeeper; it’s a testament to an unwavering pursuit of horological perfection, symbolizing a harmonious balance between tradition and innovation. F.P. Journe’s Tourbillon Souverain, with its matte yellow and rose gold dial, seamlessly unites artistry with mechanical virtuosity, destined to be admired by connoisseurs of fine watchmaking across generations.
F.P. Journe 
