The Brain and spine Institute (Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle épinière), founded in Paris by Professors Gérard Saillant, Yves Agid and Olivier Lyon Caen, embodies a new model in neuroscience research. Located in the Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, this international research institute, with its 22,000 square meters of laboratory space, is unique. It plays a central role in the processes of care and treatment. Public authorities, corporations and donors all unite forces to bring together patients, doctors and eminent researchers who come from all over the world to work together and discover new treatments for nervous system disorders. 

The adventure began in April 2004 with a watch produced in 3 examples, which were sold at an auction commemorating the 30th anniversary of Antiquorum. The proceeds from the sale were donated in their entirety to the ICM. When François-Paul Journe met Jean Todt, at the time General Manager of the Scuderia Ferrari and ICM’s Vice President, they discussed the creation of a chronograph that would be ideal for the world of automobile racing. The Centigraphe Souverain, which measures 100ths of a second, was launched in 2008; Jean Todt is its godfather. The chronograph was awarded the Aiguille d’Or at the Geneva Grand Prix d’Horlogerie. 

F.P. Journe, who is particularly touched by the ICM’s research, decided to donate 30% of the profit from the sale of each Centigraphe to the ICM. Since 2008, 525 Centigraphe Souverain and Centigraphe Sport watches have been sold, thus contributing to the advancement of the Institute’s research.

Since the ICM’s founding, its research activities have grown considerably. Today the Institute welcomes over 600 scientists, researchers and doctors, who join forces to combat brain and spine diseases. The mutual commitment of these researchers to the fight against neurological diseases, the quality of their work, the awards they have won and the financing they benefit from–both French and European–all testify to the Institute’s scientific excellence.

François-Paul Journe, a recognised artist but also a very compassionate man, is happy to support the ICM and thus to further medical research, alongside such personalities as Professor Gérard Saillant, Luc Besson, Michelle Yeoh, Jean Réno, Jean Todt and Michael Schumacher. 

F.P. Journe explains: "While I have always worked hard, I have been lucky in life, and it is important to me to share the results of my success with those who have been less lucky."

"Our research brings tangible hope to many patients. In order that our researchers may continue their work we must all join forces: public authorities, corporations, and individuals. Everyone, without exception, must become involved because this combat concerns all of us."

Pr Gérard Saillant - Jean Todt - François‑Paul Journe