Phillips Auction House Corrects F.P. Journe Résonance Delivery Date Claim
Phillips Walks Back Early Résonance Delivery Claim After F.P. Journe Statement
Auction house Phillips has officially corrected a claim that an early pre-production Chronomètre à Résonance watch, scheduled for sale in November, was delivered in 1999. The correction came after watchmaker F.P. Journe issued a statement clarifying the actual delivery date of the timepiece.
The Correction
"We stand corrected thanks to François-Paul Journe," Phillips stated in an Instagram post. The auction house originally believed the "Pre-Production" Chronomètre à Résonance 022/99 was delivered in 1999. However, F.P. Journe's letter confirmed the watch was actually delivered on June 8, 2000.
In his letter titled "Correction," Journe clarified: "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. During those 3 months, others were delivered elsewhere in the world."
Impact on Auction Estimate
The correction could significantly impact the sale price of the watch at auction. Phillips had estimated the piece at CHF 500,000 to CHF 1 million. Collectors often place higher value on watches delivered earlier in production runs, with the first delivered example typically considered most desirable.
| Watch Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Model | Chronomètre à Résonance 022/99 |
| Original Claim | Delivered 1999 |
| Actual Delivery | June 8, 2000 |
| Estimate | CHF 500,000 - CHF 1,000,000 |
| Sale Date | November 7-8, Geneva |
Context: Record-Breaking F.P. Journe Sales
The correction follows another significant F.P. Journe auction result. Another early Résonance, 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.
Phillips emphasized that despite the correction, the Chronomètre à Résonance 022/99 remains "the lowest commercially available number at the time" with numbers 1-20 reserved for Souscription pieces.
Why Authentication Matters
Journe stated in his letter: "I am very often dismayed by the untruths I read about us. There are 'experts' who know F.P. JOURNE better than I do. Yet it is hardly difficult to gather information, to write and tell the truth."
The incident highlights the importance of accurate provenance documentation in the pre-owned watch market and auction industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the F.P. Journe Chronomètre à Résonance?
The Résonance is one of F.P. Journe's signature timepieces, featuring two movements with separate balances brought into synchronization within a single case. It represents the ultimate expression of Journe's vision as a watchmaker.
How does delivery date affect auction value?
Collectors typically value watches delivered earlier in production runs more highly. The first delivered example of a reference is often considered the most desirable and commands premium prices at auction.
Where can I learn more about vintage watch authentication?
Visit our watch authentication guide for expert tips on verifying provenance and authenticity.
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Related: Complete Guide to Pre-Owned Watches