F. P. Journe

Francois-Paul Journe's Tourbillon Souverain holds a significant position in the realm of modern independent watchmaking. He began his journey in the watchmaking industry by restoring antique clocks and pocket watches, as well as fulfilling prestigious orders from renowned luxury brands like Cartier, Piaget, and Harry Winston. Today, he has attained global recognition as one of the most sought-after and esteemed watchmakers, with his timepieces being highly coveted by collectors.

Introduced in 1999, the Tourbillon Souverain d'Egalité revolutionized wristwatches by being the first to incorporate a constant force remontoire. This mechanism effectively regulated the uneven force delivered by the mainspring. F.P. Journe's brilliance shines through the combination of the remontoire with the tourbillon, paying homage to horological traditions while creating intricate and modern timepieces. Although the Tourbillon Souverain has been in F.P. Journe’s production for 21 years, only the ones that were produced from 1999 to 2003 were classified as the D’Egalit model. While the ones afterward would be classified as the Avec Seconde Morte as they would further include a fascinating deadbeat seconds function as well. 

Collectors have identified four significant series within the D'Egalit model, and the present watch belongs to the fourth generation, identifiable by its smaller dial screws and prominent case back engravings. In recent years, there has been a growing appreciation for F.P. Journe's early rhodium-plated brass movements, with the Tourbillon Souverain being particular favourable among collectors. The current watch is one of approximately 240 to 410 D'Egalit pieces made, making the piece exceptionally rare and sought after.