The Essence, The Testament and The Visionary. 

Amongst the pieces we came through, there are understated and sophisticated pieces; there are apparent and attention-seeking pieces, then there are pieces which exude a presence to be one-of-a-kind. Today we are privileged to present a watch that has single-handedly raised independent watchmaking to the broader realm with its relentless pursuit to seek the essence of a wristwatch, all to its daring author - Francois-Paul Journe.

To understand and appreciate F.P. Journe, one must search for the past three decades of progression within high horological developments, in particular the Quartz Crisis and its aftermaths. In comparison to the current market landscape of independent watchmakers, the neo-vintage era witnessed a courageous attempt by a handful of daring gentlemen who break free from the notable manufacturers and decided to pursue a small-scaled venture that produces the best attention-to-detail and charismatic wristwatches without labeling upon a hundred-year-old hallmark. The tough times witnessed several challenges, ie. Roger Dubuis, Daniel Roth, Philippe Dufour, George Daniels and Denis Flageollet who all have held irreplaceable contributions and interpretations of its own - Francois-Paul Journe is certainly one of those ingenious and rebellious echelons. In the 1990s, the man himself has spent quite some time restoring pocket watches and mechanical clocks, yet always determined and destined to invent and challenge his creations, in particularly the invention of watch movements and mechanisms.

Journe produces approximately 900 pieces yearly which ensures allocation exclusivity to be considered as rare, yet not one-of-a-kind executions ie. Philippe Dufour and George Daniels whose pieces have all emerged in the international auction room for astronomical figures. If you see Rolex line-up in singularity, certainly the coherence exists between each series; however Journe’s execution is that single-dose of wine, so strong and concentrated that you can either be its life-long disciple or brought no interest at all. The Chronometre Bleu is considered an ‘entry’ watch within Journe’s line-up for more mainstream markets and ironically made itself the most well-loved piece within the community. Released in 2009, the watch is perhaps a resonance and reciprocation to the 2008 economic crisis in order for Journe to stay relevant in a challenging and uncertain market state, steadily making sales to support the grand vision.

Little would enthusiasts predict that by 2018, waitlists in boutiques are well over a decade and subsequently ceased production in 2019 due to the expensive cost in its development phases. officially marking a new era perhaps underway for the Chronometre Bleu. Certainly the aftermaths were, criticism of its market appreciation and evaluation, yet I genuinely don’t believe a timepiece can skyrocket on its own for this long if it’s short of brilliance. There is a very well reason why certain collectors of Journe have only dedicated their big portion to the great men and reduced brand diversity in the shelf. The Chronometre Bleu is completely made out of tantalum, a material rarer than gold which is much harder to manufacture and finish, however, it carries a dark bluish tone that reflects upon different angles under daylight depending on the saturation and light source, paired with 39mm case in well-beveled edges to complement the unique hour markers. The dial is an enigma in itself - first of all the crystal carries a deep navy-blue hue which bounces the first layer upon the dial, where layers of hand-applied blue lacquer retract its own light in a radiant manner, ranging from deep navy to light blue all dependent on its surroundings. I have no exact words to describe the dial such that it could only be experienced in person to appreciate its depth. Caliber 1304 exudes the beauty of all polishing and finishing techniques beyond words. Whether its the free-sprung balance, twin barrels and adjusted spring, the commitment to his excellence can be perceived from every single angle.

This watch is much, much more than a mere accessory. It is a testament to the wearer’s refined state of mind towards watchmaking. Owning a Chronometre Bleu is more than owning a watch - it is embracing the uncompromising legacy of his craftsmanship and dedication which will stand for generations down the horological circle. Time will tell.