Important Watches: Part I
Important Watches: Part I
F.P. Journe
Tourbillon Souverain | A platinum tourbillon wristwatch with constant force remontoire, power reserve indication and brass movement | Circa 2003
Live auction begins on:
May 12, 09:00 AM GMT
Estimate
240,000 - 350,000 CHF
Lot Details
Description
Dial: silvered
Calibre: cal. 1498 manual winding, 28 jewels
Case: platinum, case back secured by 6 screws
Case number: 278-03T
Closure: 18k white gold F.P. Journe folding clasp
Size: 38 mm diameter
Signed: case, dial and movement
Box: yes
Papers: no
Accessories: F.P. Journe presentation case with outer packaging
Please note the leather strap derived from endangered species is for display purposes only and is not sold with the watch. The watch will be shipped with a Sotheby’s branded calf leather strap.
The Tourbillon Souverain d'Egalité, introduced in 1999, marked a significant milestone in the evolution of wristwatches, pioneering the integration of a constant force remontoire mechanism. This groundbreaking innovation, combined with the intricate tourbillon complication, exemplifies François-Paul Journe's mastery of horological traditions and his dedication to pushing the boundaries of modern timepieces.
Originally produced between 1999 and 2003, the Tourbillon Souverain was the inaugural production wristwatch from Montres Journe. The present example, crafted in 2003, represents the fourth and final generation of this iconic model, who’s production estimation is somewhere around 300 pieces, making this example as rare, as it is desirable.
This Tourbillon Souverain showcases a range of distinctive features characteristic of its fourth-generation lineage. Notable attributes include smaller dial screws, a flat remontoire cock, and deeper caseback engravings. Encased in platinum and featuring F.P. Journe's signature 'flat crown' with a rope-like pattern.
The manual-winding F.P. Journe caliber 1498 tourbillon movement, constructed from rhodium-plated brass adorned with Côtes de Genève, powers this exceptional timepiece. With 25 jewels and a shock-absorber mechanism, the movement ensures precise timekeeping and reliability. The one-second Remontoir d'egalité system, displayed prominently on the dial side, provides constant force to the escapement, enhancing accuracy and performance.
Highly coveted among collectors, particularly for its early rhodium-plated brass movement, the Tourbillon Souverain embodies the essence of F.P. Journe's pioneering spirit and uncompromising quality. With its limited production and exceptional craftsmanship, this timepiece represents a rare and desirable addition to any discerning collection.
Inscribed with the words 'Invenit et Fecit' below the tourbillon, a homage to horological traditions of the past, this fourth-generation Tourbillon Souverain encapsulates François-Paul Journe's enduring legacy and his relentless pursuit of horological excellence.