Year: 2007
Case No: 256-RN
Model Name: Chronomètre à Resonance Black Label
Material: Platinum
Calibre: Manual, cal. 1499.2, 36 jewels
Bracelet/Strap: Leather
Clasp/Buckle: Platinum F.P. Journe pin buckle
Accessories: Accompanied by F.P. Journe Warranty card dated Dec 17th 2007, Black Label Certificate of Guarantee dated 2007, instruction booklet, wooden presentation box and outer packaging.
Since its launch in 2000, the Chronomètre à Résonance has become one of contemporary horology’s most iconic timepieces. Inspired by the works of the great 18th century watchmaker Antide Janvier, Journe took up the challenge in 1983 to create a pocket-watch using the resonance phenomenon, followed by the first ever wristwatch to use the phenomenon around 17 years later. The movement is composed of two independent balance wheels, when in motion, the balance wheels create the resonance effect and beat in synchrony, naturally evening out each others’ discrepancies and thus permitting greater accuracy.
In 2004 the second generation of the model (the RN series for "Resonance "Nouvelle) was launched. Represented by the present timepiece, it differentiates itself from the earlier production series thanks to its larger 40mm case (versus the 38mm of the first iteration) and the presence of the first 18K rose gold movement with the caliber 1499.2. The RN series was officially discontinued in 2009 with its caliber 1499.2 being in production for a limited time before being replaced by caliber 1499.3 featuring a different power reserve. It is believed that few calibers 1499.2 where made during a short transitional period between 2005 to 2006 - consequently, making them possibly rarer than first generation, brass-movement pieces.
The present Chronomètre à Resonance differentiates itself even further as it showcases the rarefied Black Label dial that is exclusively made available to the existing owners of Journe timepieces and is only offered from official F.P. Journe boutiques worldwide with extremely limited production numbers. Elegant and captivating, the present Chronomètre à Resonance is truly a sight to behold, its black dial further accentuates the perfect symmetry between the two identical 12 hours indicators, notably the RN series was the last model to feature such a detail with later models either featuring a 24 and 12-hour indicator or rotating discs indicating the hours and minutes with analog 12-hour indicator to the right for the 3rd and final generation.
Preserved in excellent overall condition and complete with its full set of accessories the present Chronomètre à Resonance Black Label is a rare version of one of the most relevant horological breakthroughs of the past decades. Certain to appeal to the admirer of technical contemporary horology, this is truly a marvel to behold for collectors looking to acquire a rare specimen of the revered Resonance.