F. P. Journe

The present lot may represent one of the most important Resonance produced as not only does it belong to Journe's Ruthenium series, but it is designated number one of that series. The Ruthenium Resonance mark the final production of Journe's now celebrated brass movements and represent the only brass movements equipped to a Resonance with a 40mm case. As the name suggests the dial and movement are plated in Ruthenium, giving both a strinking and dark finish that sits in very pleasing contrast to the white platinum case. 

The Ruthenium collection included 5 watches in total, the Resonance, the Tourbillon Souverain, the Reserve de Marche, Octa Chronographe and Octa Calandrier. Only 99 were made of each of the five models. Of the 99 Resonance watches produced, the present lot is number one. 

Like all early versions of F.P. Journe wristwatches, the present example features a brass movement, as opposed to the later ones crafted from solid gold. However, the present model’s movement is coated in ruthenium, a rare metal used in the manufacturing of platinum, beautifully resonating with the ruthenium-plated gold and whitened guilloché silver dial. Given the low production in Journe's early years with a short production span and the present being number one of a limited edition of only 99 pieces, this Résonance stands as one of Journe’s most important pieces and one that will only become more important with the passing of time.