What Happened at the Auction for the F.P. Journe Watch?

The highlight of the recent Hong Kong spring auctions was the F.P. Journe Sonnerie Souveraine wristwatch. This remarkable timepiece hammered at HK$14.2 million, which is 3.7 times its initial estimate. After premiums, it sold for a total of HK$17.6 million (approximately US$2.3 million), making it the most expensive watch sold during this season's auctions.

Auction Details:

• Lot Number: 2291
• Brand: F.P. Journe
• Model: Sonnerie Souveraine
• Type: Stainless steel grande and petite sonnerie minute repeating wristwatch
• Features: Function selector, power reserve, and bracelet
• Manufactured: Circa 2008
• Case Size: 42 mm
• Estimate: HK$3,800,000 - 7,800,000
• Hammer Price: HK$14,200,000
• Sold Price: HK$17,557,000

About F.P. Journe

François-Paul Journe is widely regarded as one of the most influential watchmakers of our time. Since founding F.P. Journe in 1999, his watches have become staples at major auctions, frequently appearing alongside legendary brands like Patek Philippe and Rolex. Remarkably, F.P. Journe holds the auction record for an independent watchmaker, set by its Tourbillon Souverain, which sold for CHF 7.32 million (US$8.3 million) in 2024.

Journe's Journey: Born in Marseille in 1957, Journe found his passion for horology while living with his uncle, a vintage clock restorer in Paris. His obsession with mechanical innovation led him to create his first tourbillon pocket watch by the age of 20. In 1991, he designed a prototype wristwatch featuring a tourbillon and a remontoir d’égalité—an innovative constant-force mechanism.

In 1999, Journe launched the Souscription Tourbillon, offering early supporters a chance to purchase limited editions at half the future retail price. This initiative laid the groundwork for his brand, which focuses on complex precision chronometers, producing around 800 watches per year.

Market Presence and Pricing

F.P. Journe watches typically command 2.5 to 3 times their retail price on the secondary market, surpassing even Patek Philippe's Nautilus line and Audemars Piguet's Royal Oak.

Insights from Collectors

Here are some interesting comments from collectors regarding the F.P. Journe experience:

1. "Rob a bank then go to an AD to buy…"
2. "You're going to need a strong purchase history—over $250,000—just to get noticed."
3. "Good luck with the hunt!"
4. "Buying from a private seller or the gray market might be a better option than dealing with ADs."

How to Purchase an F.P. Journe Watch

If you're interested in acquiring an F.P. Journe watch, consider registering your interest at the Prince Building boutique in Central, Hong Kong. They don't require occupation details, unlike Patek Philippe and Audemars Piguet, which can make the process slightly easier.

It's essential to act quickly—given their limited production and high demand, you might hear back in 2-3 years regarding your desired model.

Final Thoughts

If you love F.P. Journe watches, I recommend registering your interest as soon as possible. With patience and a bit of luck, you might just secure one of these exceptional timepieces.

Cheers,
Paul Ip