SIGNED F.P. JOURNE, 30 YEAR ANNIVERSARY TOURBILLON MODEL, NO. 18/99, CIRCA 2013

The 30th Anniversary Tourbillon has a special place in the history of F.P. Journe because it revisits and celebrates the very first tourbillon pocket watch made by François Paul Journe in 1983. Limited to 99 examples only, the T30 was made with the same materials and techniques used 30 years before, subtly cased in sterling silver with pink gold bezels, it recreates the spirit and technical prowess of Journe’s first tourbillon pocket watch. The hinged case back over a sapphire crystal allows the owner to view the gilt dual-train movement and one-minute tourbillon housed inside. The lateral pallet escapement, more compatible with a wristwatch, replaces the detent escapement of the original. The manufacture of the dial uses traditional techniques, with a fine, grained surface with all the markings and indices engraved, then filled with black lacquer. Because of the antiquated technique of engraving then filling, the result is a dial that has a softer more vintage feel. Naturally, the F.P. Journe caliber 1412 movement with 56-hour power reserve is closely based on the original 1983 movement with two spring barrels secured by two symmetrical bridges above the one-minute tourbillon secured by a single straight bridge.

The present T30 Anniversary Tourbillon is now an F.P. Journe classic that represents 30 years of innovation. Collectors now have the rare opportunity to obtain a special piece of history from one of the most respected and desirable of all modern watchmakers.