F.P. Journe: Profiling the Tourbillon Soverain Vertical

"I nvenit et Fecit," meaning "Invented and Made," encapsulates the essence of FP Journe's philosophy as an independent watchmaker. Crafted with precision and passion, the brand has garnered a dedicated collector community, owing to its relentless approach to craftsmanship and innovation. Sotheby's have brought to market many exceptional FP Journe watches in recent years, with the unique and rare characteristics of each example drawing significant interest among collectors.

Here, we explore the remarkable FP Journe Tourbillon Souverain, through a superlative example available in Sotheby's upcoming Important Watches sale in New York. The lot is presented with an estimate of 300,000 - 600,000 USD.

The FP Journe Tourbillion Souverain

This FP Journe watch is the brand's signature model, known for its groundbreaking and award-winning use of the remontoir d'Égalité.

Launched in 1999, it became the first tourbillon wristwatch to incorporate the remarkable dual complications. The remontoir d'Égalité delivers a consistent force to the escapement, stabilizing the variable energy output from the mainspring as it unwinds. This innovation not only optimizes precision but has helped the Tourbillon Souverain maintain its reputation as one of the most accurate wristwatches available today.

In 2019, FP Journe commemorated the 20th anniversary of his tourbillon movement by introducing the FP Journe Tourbillon Souverain Vertical. This redesign hinges on a fundamental improvement: rotating the tourbillon cage 90 degrees from the standard configuration to counteract gravitational effects on the balance wheel, even when the watch lies flat.

FP Journe watches — FP Journe Tourbillon Souverain Vertical, Circa 2021, Estimate 300,000 - 600,000 USD

In traditional configurations, a tourbillon positioned parallel to the dial is ineffective when the watch is flat since gravity’s pull is perpendicular to the rotating cage. However, with this vertical orientation, the FP Journe Tourbillon Souverain Vertical remains responsive to gravitational disturbances in nearly any position.

In the words of François-Paul Journe, “I designed this vertical tourbillon so that the tourbillon’s functions remain constant whether the watch lies flat or is placed on its side, and the amplitude is subsequently the same, whether with a deployant clasp lying on the side or with an ardillon buckle lying flat.”

The new model also features a faster tourbillon rotation, doubling the original speed to a 30-second rotation. Design-wise, the tourbillon is surrounded by highly polished surfaces on both sides of the cradle, creating a visual treat when viewing the rotating cage.

How Much Is an F.P. Journe Tourbillon Souverain Vertical?

The price of an F.P. Journe Tourbillon Souverain Vertical can vary significantly based on factors such as case material, dial configuration, production year, and provenance. Originally retailing around $250,000, these timepieces are produced in extremely limited quantities, adding to their desirability. On the secondary market, examples in platinum or rose gold typically command between $350,000 and $500,000, with rare dial variations and limited editions often exceeding those figures. Exceptional pieces with unique attributes or direct provenance have achieved results well above $600,000 at auction, underscoring the model’s status as a modern horological icon.

Advantages to Buying F.P. Journe Watches on the Secondary Market

1. Access

Sotheby’s provides exclusive access to a curated selection of F.P. Journe watches from its long established global network of sellers. As a leading marketplace, Sotheby's offers exceptional F.P. Journe timepieces, from iconic classics to rare references. Our watch specialists are dedicated to sourcing the most desirable F.P. Journe watch models from collectors around the world.

2. Flexibility

Sotheby’s offers multiple ways to purchase F.P. Journe watches, including online and in person at our locations in New York, Hong Kong, Paris, and London. We also provide a concierge service to help source specificF.P. Journe watch models not available online.

3. Value

While authorized F.P. Journe boutiques offer their latest collections, finding specific models—especially those with strong collector demand—can be challenging due to availability constraints. Sotheby’s presents a curated selection of F.P. Journe watches, including rare and discontinued references, available for purchase without the need to visit multiple retailers. Shopping with Sotheby’s ensures access to exceptional F.P. Journe timepieces, from vintage icons to modern grail watches, all authenticated by experts.

4. Discovery

One of the greatest advantages of shopping in a global luxury marketplace is the chance to discover unique, limited-production F.P. Journe watches no longer available at retail. Our curated selection of F.P. Journe watches is continuously refreshed, ensuring that you’ll always find something new and exclusive.

Buy or Sell Your Next FP Journe Watch with Sotheby's

Sotheby’s offers a curated selection of the finest luxury watches available for immediate purchase, as well as through auctions held in New York, Paris, and Hong Kong. Sotheby’s is proud to feature a diverse selection of FP Journe watches exclusively through its auctions. These sales showcase a wide range of FP Journe timepieces, from the innovative Chronomètre à Résonance to the intricate Tourbillon Souverain. Collectors have the opportunity to acquire rare and limited-edition pieces that showcase F.P. Journe's unique blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern innovation.

Prices for F.P. Journe watches at Sotheby’s auctions vary based on model, rarity, and condition. Entry-level models typically start around $60,000, while highly sought-after pieces like a limited edition stainless steel Tourbillon Souverain can command prices exceeding $500,000.

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