F.P. Journe : an horlogic bridge between France & China

F.P. Journe : an horlogic bridge between France & China


by Olivier Müller

Fifty years ago, in 1964, guided by a visionary spirit and political courage, General de Gaulle and President Mao Tse Tung opened the way for exchanges between China and France. France thus became the first major Western country to establish diplomatic relations with Beijing. This gesture, coming during the Cold War, was a strong and courageous move on the part of a future world power that was becoming a force to be reckoned with internationally.

With over 30 years of savoir-faire and creativity, F.P. Journe is the Official Watchmaker of France-China 50 to represent excellence in the field of haute horology. Patron of the event, F.P.Journe has designed the commemorative watches that will be presented during the different events of France-China 50. Leader among the most prestigious horological firms, F.P.Journe has opened an exclusive network of 10 Boutiques over the world, including one rue du Faubourg St Honoré in Paris, next to the Elysée Palace, and 2 Boutiques in China since 2006, in Hong Kong’s Landmark Prince’s Building and one in Beijing’s China World Mall.

The men’s Commemorative Watch Octa Automatique Lune

The Platinum case features a novel blue dial dedicated for this event with gold arabic numerals, hours minutes, small seconds, phases of the moon, an exceptional power reserve of over 120 hours, a large date and the F.P.Journe and France-China 50 logos.

F.P. Journe Octa Automatique Lune

F.P. Journe Octa Automatique Lune

The mechanical movement with automatic winding in 18K rose Gold beating to a frequency of 21,600v/h is visible through the transparent sapphire back. The unidirectional off centre F.P.Journe rotor in 22K rose Gold includes a self-locking ball bearing system. Each infinitesimal movement is thus exploited for an optimized winding of the watch.

The ladies’ Commemorative Watch « Elégante » with Jade dial

Unique model, the Platinum case is set with a row of diamonds and unveils a dedicated translucent Jade dial especially made in homage to China and allowing to see the mechanical parts of the movement.

F.P. Journe « Elégante » with Jade dial

F.P. Journe « Elégante » with Jade dial

F.P.Journe has conceived a revolutionary horological concept exclusively for Ladies, combining feminity, elegance and precision. It offers the comfort of use and the performances of an electro-mechanical watch assuring an autonomy of 10 years when worn, and up to 18 years in standby mode.

F.P. Journe « Elégante » with Jade dial - Caseback

F.P. Journe « Elégante » with Jade dial – Caseback

The mechanical motion detector allows the time to be stopped and started again. When not worn, the watch stops after about 30 minutes. When the « Elégante » is again worn, it automatically sets itself to the correct time taking the shortest path for the purpose of energy conservation.

    Author Bio

    Articles by Olivier Müller

    CONTRIBUTOR

    Olivier Müller is a professional journalist specialising in horology. He divides his time between Geneva and Paris, covering horology-related topics for a dozen or so magazines and specialist websites in Europe. He is also a regular speaker at various events. In 2008, Olivier Müller set up Delos Communications to manage the writing side of his business, spanning five European countries. Delos Communications also provides consultancy services for horological communication, helping brands as they define and implement their strategy in terms of positioning, messages and audience. In addition to the world’s two largest watchmaking groups, Delos Communications’ clients include a broad range of emerging independent brands, as well as public-sector bodies keen to promote their local watchmaking heritage. Five people work for the agency, including a journalist, a photographer, a community manager and a translator, all with expertise in the world of watchmaking.