F.P. Journe 腕錶在拍賣中的最高成交紀錄為10,755,000美元（約1,080萬美元），拍品為電影導演法蘭西斯·福特·柯波拉收藏中的獨一無二 F.P. Journe FFC 原型表。該表於2025年12月6日在富藝斯紐約鐘錶拍賣 XIII（Phillips New York Watch Auction XIII）上成交。
補充說明
中文語境中常將「FFC 原型表」稱為「人手報時」腕錶，其讀時方式為：表盤中央的機械手透過手指的開合指示12小時，外圈轉環顯示分鐘。
這枚腕表被報導為刷新美國鐘錶行業近八年拍賣紀錄的成交。
Abel Huang of WOLT has been organizing a monthly gathering at his office for watch enthusiasts and collectors. These two-hour events feature introductions to new watch models sponsored by various watchmakers. We had a wonderful time sharing knowledge about watches with several experts in attendance.
Additionally, many members showcased their impressive watch collections.
Best of all, the event is free, and we are provided with snacks and drinks.
From what I know, very few YouTubers in Hong Kong arrange similar gatherings.
Paul
Global demand for Swiss watches softened in
2025, weighed down by elevated US tariffs, persistent currency headwinds, and
the continuing shift toward digital wearables. Export performance is expected
to remain under pressure through the first half of the year, with a gradual
stabilization more likely in the second half if tariff and macro conditions
ease.
Recent developments and current state
On Nov 20, 2025, the Federation of the
Swiss Watch Industry reported that October exports fell 4.4% year on year to
2.2 billion Swiss francs (S$3.6 billion), marking the third consecutive monthly
decline. Shipments to the United States—the industry’s largest market—slumped 47%, while China recorded a second straight month of growth,
hinting at a potential easing in the luxury downturn.
A major drag has been the 39% US import
tariff on Swiss watches, which took effect on Aug 7, 2025 and sits above the
rates applied to the European Union and other advanced economies. The policy
has amplified price pressures and disrupted order patterns, contributing to the
sector’s weak run into 2026.
Structural forces shaping 2026
Competition from digital wearables and
health-focused watches (e.g., Apple) continues to erode entry-level and mid‑range
demand, reinforcing a two‑speed market in which high‑end mechanicals remain
more resilient than volume segments.
The post‑COVID economic moderation has
cooled discretionary spending. After the pandemic-era surge, demand
normalization and elevated inventories have made for a bumpier recovery in
wholesale shipments.
In 2024 the trend towards high end
products accelerated, with watches priced above 50,000 Swiss Francs accounting for
33.5% of the market value and contributing 84% of growth This Suggests consumer
are increasing inclined towards high-end
watches rather than entry -level or mid-range products.
Pricing and currency: a strong Swiss franc
and previous rounds of brand price increases have pushed up end prices,
pressuring volumes and incentivizing cautious restocking at retail and
wholesale levels.
Channel dynamics: growth in the pre‑owned
market and the need for tighter inventory management are prompting brands to
recalibrate launch cadences, discount policies, and regional allocations to
maintain margins and sell‑through.
2026 outlook and risks
Near term: expect subdued year‑on‑year
export performance in early 2026, with the US market remaining the single largest
source of uncertainty due to tariff persistence, price elasticity, and retailer
caution.
Downside risks: prolonged tariff measures,
further franc appreciation, weaker Chinese demand, and continued wearables
penetration.
Upside risks: a tariff rollback or
exemption, stabilization in China and Europe, and a pickup in global travel
retail—each of which could support a second‑half recovery.
Sector response: ongoing currency hedging,
selective price optimization, and cautious production scheduling remain the
core tactics; near‑term guidance is likely to stay conservative until demand
and channel signals improve.
Note on the rumor about China assembly
Claims that many Swiss brands are “made in China with
final assembly in Switzerland” are widespread online but are not supported by official trade
statistics or brand disclosures. Under current Swiss export rules, a watch may
carry a “Swiss made” label only if at least 60% of its manufacturing value is added in
Switzerland and the final assembly takes place there; widespread offshoring of
final assembly would undermine that designation.
As my opinion, those top 3% of luxury watch
collectors are not affected. They are still being notified by phone calls from
Patel, AP, FP Journe for their watches are ready for collection even though they
are bundled sales with some other less “important” watches as part of the deal
say for Rolex or AP.
Vintage collectors are either holding their
top collection items whereby selling their mid low range watches in open
market to slim down their collection. Waiting the vintage hype is coming back.
More bigger brands are spending effort to attract
younger watch byer of the age group of 30-45.
As these are the majority of big spenders
for mid – high end luxury watches.
In general, overall situation will not be as
good as 2025 for 2026 unless there are upcoming economy miracle from these big
countries: US, China, EU, Japan…as these
are the largest Swiss watch export countries.
By 2035, the most sought-after watches from top-tier brands are expected to be the established iconic models that consistently hold their value and are defined by a blend of heritage, limited production, and classic design. These models will likely include:
Rolex
Rolex is consistently the top brand for
resale value and global recognition. Its most iconic professional models are
expected to remain in extremely high demand due to brand mystique and tightly
controlled supply.
Patek Philippe
Known for exceptional craftsmanship and its
"You never actually own a Patek Philippe, you merely look after it for the
next generation" philosophy, Patek Philippe timepieces are excellent
long-term investments.
Audemars Piguet
The brand's flagship model, the Royal Oak,
is expected to maintain its high status due to its innovative design and
exclusivity.
Vacheron Constantin
As one of the oldest continuously operating
watchmakers, its models are renowned for their artistry and rich heritage.
FP Journe
Though it is Not having long history of a
watch company, very good workmanship, innovative design and beautiful
polishing.
Other Noteworthy Mentions
The market in 2035 will continue to
prioritize brand reputation, scarcity, provenance, and timeless design,
and the models mentioned above embody these characteristics exceptionally well.
AI
Aftermath, AI does not include FP Journe, That is what I added in.
Just for your reading pleasure
Paul
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:
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:
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
If you don't trust your watch dealer, you risk buying a counterfeit, a watch with non-authentic parts, or a watch with issues like a voided warranty or even stolen watch , which can lead to expensive repairs and trouble. For selling, you may receive a lower price and face the risk of dealing with scammers or receiving a fraudulent payment.
Risks when Buying
Finder’s
fee is normally from 2%-10% depending price of the watch,
Risks when selling
Conclusion
There must be certain value for the middle man,
Dealer to give you buying and selling service, sometimes it is more comfortable
for selling through dealer, unless you are yourself a dealer
If you watch is a collectible item, go for middle
man first and if he can’t find the right buyer, and if you can wait, go for
auction, note that there is charges in selling your watch at auction.
A Rare Gem: 19018 Rolex Day-Date Oyster
Quartz with Unique Birch Dial
Let’s take a brief step back in horological history first.
Between 1977 and 2003, Rolex produced a total of 25,000 Oyster Quartz watches — a bold move at a time when the Swiss watch industry was still reeling from the "Quartz Crisis". Among these, the yellow gold models with birch dials are exceptionally rare. In fact, it’s estimated that fewer than 200 were ever made. Over the past decade in Hong Kong, I’ve personally seen no more than five — and three of them are in my collection.
Today, I’m offering one of the two I’m looking to part with — a truly beautiful Rolex Day-Date Oyster Quartz 19018, featuring an absolutely stunning birch-coloured dial.
This is not your average beige or champagne dial. The birch tone on this particular example is remarkably brighter and more “orange-toned” compared to others I’ve encountered. When viewed alongside the crisp white Day and Date apertures, the contrast is striking — a visual detail that truly comes alive in person (unfortunately, my photos can’t quite do justice to it due to reflections).
I had the battery replaced just last week on 4 October at CWR, so you’re getting a fully serviced, accurate timepiece ready to run for approximately two more years.
Now, why is this watch interesting beyond its rarity?
Many modern watch enthusiasts and critics have noted that the design language of the Rolex Oysterquartz — particularly its clean, integrated bracelet and bold dial layout — may have subtly influenced the later Rolex Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master (or even the newer Oyster Perpetual "Land-Dweller" concept). Speaking of which, the newly launched Rolex Oyster Perpetual 40mm "Land-Dweller" (Ref. 127334) in stainless steel with a white dial is currently retailing (or reselling) in the open market for around HKD 270,000.
So here’s a thought:
Why not consider a solid 18k yellow gold Rolex Day-Date, with a rare and vibrant birch dial, powered by Rolex’s own highly engineered quartz movement, all for roughly half the price?
It’s accurate. It’s elegant. It’s historically intriguing. And it’s definitely a conversation starter.
This is one of the two I’m listing on
Carousell — if you’ve been searching for something truly unique in the quartz
world from Rolex, this might be your moment.
HK Snob
This little fish symbol was once a quiet favorite among fans, but it was later replaced by the more official “Probus Scafusia” logo. Its comeback is actually tied to a funny and surprising trademark battle in Switzerland.
Here' s what happened:
Richemont (IWC' s parent company)
tried to register the fish logo in 2016, but Swiss officials said no — because it looked
too much like the ichthys, an ancient Christian symbol of a fish that stands
for “Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior.” They worried it might offend religious
feelings.
Richemont appealed, saying the logo wasn't meant to be religious and wouldn't upset most people. After some back and forth, a higher court agreed in 2018. They said the fish logo wasn't clearly the ichthys, and that the symbol wasn't central to Christian worship like, say, the cross or the Virgin Mary. Plus, similar designs were already being used in business without issues.
So, IWC won the right to use the fish logo — and now, thanks to
the new Black Carbon edition, it's making a comeback on watches!
HK Snob
Your Watch Reflects Your Personality
A timepiece is more than just an accessory—it’s a reflection of
your identity, taste, and lifestyle. Whether you're drawn to timeless elegance,
bold innovation, or reliable functionality, the watch you wear speaks volumes
about who you are. Here's how different watch brands align with distinct personalities—from luxury icons to
beloved everyday companions:
Audemars Piguet – The Discerning
Enthusiast
Known for its refined craftsmanship and
understated luxury, Audemars Piguet appeals to those who seek high quality and
exclusivity without the need for ostentation. It’s the watch for the sophisticated
minimalist with a taste for the exceptional.
Cartier – The Style & Jewelry Aficionado
Blending luxury with iconic design, Cartier
watches appeal to those with a passion for beauty, fashion, and the artistry of
fine jewelry. It’s the choice of those who see their watch as an extension of their
personal style.
Casio – The Functional & Fun Personality
From rugged G-Shock watches to sleek
digital styles, Casio is loved for its versatility, affordability, and bold
functionality. It’s the choice of the practical, active, and tech-savvy individual who
values performance and personality in equal measure.
HUBLOT – The Modern & Fashion-Forward
Bold designs, striking colors, and
cutting-edge innovation make Hublot the choice for those who express their
individuality through contemporary style and trendsetting aesthetics. It’s for the
trendsetter who isn’t afraid to stand out.
Jaeger-LeCoultre – The Watch Lover
with a Taste for Design & Uniqueness
Celebrated for its artistic complications,
elegant innovation, and technical mastery, Jaeger-LeCoultre attracts those who
cherish distinctive design and mechanical ingenuity. It’s for the curious
mind and the creative soul.
Longines – The Elegant Classicist
Known for its refined Swiss elegance,
timeless designs, and strong heritage, Longines appeals to those who appreciate
classic beauty with a modern sensibility. It’s the choice of the graceful,
sophisticated individual with a love for understated luxury.
Omega – The Explorer & Achiever
Renowned for precision, innovation
(especially in space and sports), and iconic models like the Speedmaster and
Seamaster, Omega appeals to adventurers, achievers, and fans of timeless
performance. It’s for those who chase excellence—on Earth and beyond.
Patek Philippe – The Classic with
Timeless Value
Synonymous with heritage, precision, and
enduring elegance, Patek Philippe represents sophistication and long-term
value. It appeals to collectors and connoisseurs who deeply appreciate
tradition, masterful horology, and the art of fine watchmaking.
Richard Mille – The Bold &
Sociable Statement-Maker
With avant-garde designs, vibrant colors,
and cutting-edge materials, Richard Mille watches reflect the dynamic, outgoing
personality of those who enjoy standing out in elite social circles. It’s for the
high-energy, high-net-worth individual who dares to be different.
Rolex – The Practical Achiever
A symbol of reliability, success, and
prestige, Rolex is favored by ambitious individuals who value durability and a
timepiece that complements a driven, professional lifestyle. It’s the watch of doers
and dreamers alik
Seiko – The Reliable Everyday Hero
Celebrated for exceptional value,
durability, and innovation (especially in dive and mechanical watches), Seiko
is the go-to for practical, no-nonsense individuals who value reliability above
all. It’s the watch of the everyday adventurer and watch enthusiast who
appreciates craftsmanship in all forms.
TAG Heuer – The Ambitious Trendsetter
With a sporty, performance-driven image and
a strong connection to motorsports and chronographs, TAG Heuer attracts
ambitious, energetic individuals who value style, innovation, and a touch of
athletic edge. It’s for go-getters with a love for speed.
Tudor – The Balanced Traditionalist
Offering a perfect blend of heritage,
value, and modern reliability, Tudor is ideal for those who appreciate classic
watchmaking with a contemporary edge. It’s for the individual who seeks prestige without the luxury price
tag, yet still desires exceptional quality.
Vacheron Constantin – The Connoisseur of
Craftsmanship & Heritage
With deep respect for artisanal detail, historical significance, and timeless storytelling, Vacheron Constantin resonates with admirers of refined elegance and legacy. It’s chosen by those who value heritage as much as horology.
Which watch matches your personality?
Whether you lean toward luxury, heritage,
innovation, or everyday reliability—your watch is a personal statement. Choose one that not only tells
time but tells your story.
HK Snob
After acquiring high-demand pieces
from Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, and Rolex, your next move for boutique purchase and potentially
more exclusive access might be to target brands with smaller production, like
Breguet or brands focusing on different segments, such as A. Lange & Söhne, Cartier, or Moser. The answer is often F.P. Journe
itself, emphasizing its unique artisanal production.
In 2018 May after I left my name
card at Patek Philippe shop for a
Nautilus 5712, after two weeks I got it at MSRP at about HK$290K, That was one
of my first one to get a prestige collector’s dream watch. After that I have not been able to et any Audemars Piguet though I
left my card at IFC AP boutique for a white idea 15400.. I know as by that time
2022. Audemars Piguet market price is almost at its historical high. By right
they have no right to give a walk in client. though I knew the manager in charge.
It it time now for going a FP, Journe as
for reason I love their hand design, case , dial colour and an unique iconic
look of their watch, another reason is that they produce only 700-800 watches a
year, comparing with 1 million Rolex, 60.000 Patek Philippe, 50,000 Audemars
Piguet and 35,000 Vacheron Constantin a year.
I am expecting to get one after 2 years, I
intend to give it to my daughter as her birthday gift.
