Scrabble the Seconds: F.P.Journe is Poised to Thrill the Watch World Again
After the brand’s extraordinary releases over the past two years, the anticipation for 2025 is running high.
By Henri Lee
Contributor
A frequent question among independent watch enthusiasts is, "Which brand will be the next F.P.Journe?" However, judging by collector sentiments, industry reports, and auction results, the answer remains: the next F.P.Journe is still F.P.Journe.
The Geneva-based independent brand, led by master watchmaker François-Paul Journe, continues to unveil extraordinary creations that blend daring innovation, intriguing designs, and traditional watchmaking. The annual Salon F.P.Journe (coinciding with Geneva Watch Week) is just around the corner, promising exciting 2025 novelties.
One Thousand Watches a Year
From its founding to present day, F.P.Journe has consistently limited annual production. Despite incredible demand in recent years, the Maison does not exceed 1,000 mechanical watches per year. Each of these exclusive timepieces is made at F.P. Journe’s Manufacture in the heart of Old Town, allowing every movement to proudly bear the engraving, “Made in Geneva.” Mr. Journe firmly believes that this limited production is the only way to maintain the highest quality standards.
To current and future F.P.Journe collectors, patience is the name of the game. Fortunately, the wait is always worth it.
The Last Limited Edition
In 2024, F.P.Journe released a 200-piece limited edition Chronograph FB to commemorate the Tokyo Boutique’s 20th anniversary. This non-split, manual-wind chronograph was a first for the brand and the sixth model in the iconic Tokyo Boutique Anniversaire Series, which began in 2005. It features a ruthenium-coated guilloché silver dial, titanium case, and burgundy-colored strap.
Following the launch of the piece, Mr. Journe declared that this would be the last-ever limited edition, emphasizing that every timepiece is inherently limited by its low production volume and aiming to curb speculation around the potential of future limited series.
A First Production Central Seconds Model?
While F.P.Journe has developed a wide range of watches – from classic complications to whimsical creations like the FFC – the brand has never produced a central seconds model for regular production. All models to date display seconds on a subsidiary dial.
For the 10th edition of the Only Watch charity auction in 2024, Mr. Journe donated a unique Chronomètre Furtif Bleu featuring a tantalum case, a blue enamel dial, and a striking orange central seconds hand. Powered by a new hand-wound Calibre 1522, this exceptional piece sold for CHF 2 million.
Coincidentally, one of the first articles I wrote for Watchonista was about the Only Watch world tour’s Los Angeles stop, where I had the privilege of examining the Chronomètre Furtif Bleu through a loupe.
If there was a horological crystal ball, would it reveal a F.P.Journe central seconds model this year? Or perhaps something as surprising as the breathtaking FFC and Gino’s Dream?
One thing is certain: watch lovers are in for something remarkable from the most prolific and creative master watchmaker of our time.