F. P. Journe

The origins of the Vagabondage date back to 1997, when François-Paul Journe created a unique automatic wristwatch for a close friend and patron. This piece, known as the ‘Carpe Diem’, featured a wandering jump-hour display circling a centrally positioned exposed balance wheel.

Shortly thereafter, Journe revisited the concept and further developed his blueprints for the case, movement, and dial, adapting the design to one of his signature flat Tortue cases.

In 2003, after being contacted by the auction house Antiquorum, Journe once again refined the project and produced three examples to be offered at auction. This small series consisted of three watches, each crafted in a different metal, white, yellow, and pink gold, while all were fitted with brass movements. The three watches were intended to commemorate the three decades of Antiquorum’s operation, at a time when it was one of the foremost watch auction houses in the world.

In 2006, F. P. Journe officially launched the Vagabondage I series. The name “Vagabondage” refers to the wandering digital time display, while also reflecting the spirit of the project itself: a creative exploration developed by François-Paul Journe alongside his regular collections.

This limited series, housed in a flat tonneau-shaped case, marked a notable departure from the round cases generally favored by the brand. It was produced in a series of 69 pieces in platinum and 10 pieces in platinum set with baguette diamonds, all powered by a manually wound 18-carat pink gold caliber.

The Vagabondage I beautifully demonstrates how an unconventional, avant-garde design can nevertheless retain the elegance and refinement expected of a classic dress watch.

The present example is offered in very good condition and is accompanied by its original box and certificate.