Phillips Corrects Early Résonance Claim After F.P. Journe Statement

Phillips Walks Back Early Résonance Claim After F.P. Journe Statement

Auction house Phillips has corrected its claim about an early pre-production Chronomètre à Résonance watch scheduled for sale in November. The correction came after watchmaker F.P. Journe issued a letter disputing the original delivery date information provided by the auction house.

The Dispute

Phillips had originally stated that the Chronomètre à Résonance with serial number 022/99, set to be auctioned November 7-8 in Geneva, was delivered in 1999. The auction house also suggested it could be one of the first commercially delivered examples of this iconic model.

In a letter titled "Correction," F.P. Journe clarified the actual timeline: "The first Chronomètre à Résonance was delivered on March 10, 2000. As for No. 022/99R, it was delivered on June 8, 2000, three months later." The watchmaker added that during those three months, other examples were delivered worldwide, and he is keeping the serial number of the first delivered Résonance confidential.

Impact on Valuation

The Significance of the Résonance

The Chronomètre à Résonance represents one of F.P. Journe's most celebrated achievements. The model combines two movements with separate balances into a single case, bringing them into synchronization through the concept of "résonance." For many collectors, it represents the ultimate expression of Journe's vision and talent as a watchmaker.

Market Context

The correction comes amid soaring prices for F.P. Journe watches, particularly early and rare examples. Another early Résonance with serial number 007 sold for a record $13.9 million at Phillips in New York in June, making it the fifth most expensive watch ever sold at auction.

Key Points from the Correction

• The watch remains one of the earliest commercially available examples
• Serial numbers 1-20 were reserved for Souscription pieces
• Serial number 021/99 was retained by Journe himself
• The watch features shallow engraving on caseback and shiny pink gold dial
• Offered by its original owner

Journe's Statement on Accuracy

F.P. Journe expressed concern about misinformation in the watch community: "I am very often dismayed by the untruths I read about us. There are 'experts' who know F.P. JOURNE better than I do. The purpose of this clarification is not to punish anyone, but to protect buyers." The watchmaker emphasized the importance of protecting collectors from counterfeit pieces and tampered watches.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the delivery date matter for valuation?

Collectors typically place higher value on watches delivered earlier in a production run. The first delivered example is often considered the most desirable, so the correction from 1999 to June 2000 could affect the watch's final auction price.

What makes the Résonance special?

The Chronomètre à Résonance was the first wristwatch to combine two movements with separate balances in a single case, bringing them into synchronization through the principle of resonance. This technical achievement, combined with F.P. Journe's exceptional finishing, makes it highly sought after by collectors.

How does this watch compare to the record-setting serial number 007?

While serial number 007 sold for $13.9 million, the 022/99 model is significant as the lowest commercially available number. Numbers 1-20 were reserved for Souscription pieces, and 021/99 was retained by Journe himself.

According to Hodinkee, Phillips stated the watch remains "most certainly one of the earliest examples of the Résonance" despite the delivery date correction. The auction house acknowledged the correction "thanks to François-Paul Journe."

Discover more about F.P. Journe's remarkable collection or learn about navigating watch auctions successfully.