A visit to the F.P. Journe Boutique in Paris (WARNING: MANY PICTURES INSIDE)

Apr 28, 2019,16:53 PM
 

On 63 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, you find one of my favorite watch stores. The F.P. Journe Boutique. I have been coming here for more than ten years and whenever I am in Paris,a visit is always on my list.







Why a favorite?  - Because of the staff there. It has a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere and you can get to see and explore the FPJ universe together with some passionate and authentic people. 

Please, let me introduce:  Laure who I have known since before the boutique was established when she worked for Gerald Genta - she has a huge experience with high-end watches. Cyril, a newcomer – a dynamic, young man but already with a wealth of knowledge of the brand who came from Richemont but wanted get the hands-on approach you find in a small high-end. Christophe, a very talented watchmaker (former Patek) who can service most of the watches in the collection.  Finally but not least, the dear Lucas Pouedras who is Director of France and also the manager of the store for more than ten years now who I have also been fortunate to know since the early days. A very friendly soul who is also extremely professional. Lucas originally came from Patek but was trusted the task of promoting FPJ in France.

For this visit, I had made an appointment with Lucas, so he and Cyril had found some nice pieces to show to us.

Please, Enjoy!




First. Let us begin with something old and something new. The Octa Automatique Lune.






The Piece on right is a 38mm RG with the old dial. The Piece on the Left is a 40 mm PT with the brand new updated dial.

The differences on the dial are minute. However - notice the narrow bezel on the 40 mm piece. Its similar to the bezel on 38 mm. Interesting, as this has been one of the main complaints against 40mm, that the Bezel was too wide.







BTW – I discussed the 38 mm cases with Lucas and he informed me, that if you ask at a FPJ Boutique, many of the models can still be made on order in 38 mm. So for all you 38 mm fans – there is maybe a chance to get the piece you want.

The RG in the picture is NOS, so a brand new 38 mm Octa Lune in rose gold is waiting for its lucky owner in Paris.












Now to something very special. The Tourbillon Souveraine Vertical.





When I was at the manufacture in March, I saw the watchmakers working extremely hard to finish the first ten pieces, so one piece would go out for each boutique. These are finally available, and if you find yourself near a F.P Journe Boutique, I strongly urge you to go and see this highly original piece.









This was my first time to try it on the wrist. I was very excited to try it since I saw the unfinished pieces at the manufacture. 

It is original and the concept is interesting – but there is always the important question:  How does it feel on the wrist? We know it is a thick watch – but was it too thick? (I don’t like thick watches in general!). 

It also applies a slight shift of aesthetics as I discussed in my interview with Mr Journe – what was my impression, now that I had some time with the piece?

 









The case is 42 mm, with a thickness of 13,6 mm. That is 0,5 mm thicker than a Lange Datograph or the exact same thickness as a Patek 5370.   

So, yes it is thick - but not too much. It is definitely wearable!

42 mm casea are generally too big for my taste in watches and especially for FPJ watches - Even if I have a big wrist. My only real complaint is the diameter.  I really hope we will see it in a 40 mm case down the road. That would really help making it more wearable and balanced. For my taste, at least.













The idea of turning the Tourbillion in to a vertical position, has been explained many times over, so I will not repeat that. It is, of course, more of a concept to come up with a fresh take on how to make an interesting tourbillon.

Visually, I think the concept only works because of the SPACE created around the moving tourbillon. 

I see Mr Journe has worked here, with a fundamental, classic architectural theme. To create an interesting space that “stages” or becomes the “device to experience” the OBJECT (the Tourbillon). So Object and Space unite and create a synergy between them.  

The Space as I call it, is a conical void that is covered in a highly reflective metal alloy called ARCAP. This is polished to the nth degree and works as a mirror, reflecting the image of the moving tourbillon. The whole thing becomes something to sit and explore and has an ephemeral quality that I quite like.




















The aesthetics of the dial is something that I asked Mr Journe about in the interview last month (see  www.watchprosite.com )

It has a rawness about it that I quite like. It suits this watch, in the sense that it is conceptual and tries to do the Tourbillon in a new way. On the other hand, someone introduced the idea in a post a few days ago, that it would look better with a real dial. More finished. I can see that point also. If it gets a calmer dial, I think the Tourbillon will stand out much clearer. 

I would not be surprised if we will see this piece with a full dial, knowing how many amazing variations of dials Mr Journe is able to make. (Just think of the incredible dials he has created for the Dead Seconds Tourbillon)

















The next watch took me completely by surprise. The Octa Automatique Reserve from the LINESPORT collection.










I had never paid much attention to this watch. However, I really loved it on the wrist!

It is a full platinum piece in 44 mm. It is a very hefty (heavy) watch. Notice, it is without the rubber ends! I think that looks great. 

The dial is a kind of blue/lavender color. Yes, a hint of purple. But a very, very nice color. Certainly not something I would have expected to like, but I love it. 

Moreover 44 mm is a definitely not a size I normally like, but because the watch is without lugs, it suddenly became a very nice and wearable size!





The treatment of the platinum looks spectacular. It has a granular (beadblasted surface) combined with polished ends. I think the effect of the finish is just wonderful.










The bezel is spectacular. You could (wrongly) think it is an insert like we know form Rolex and others. But no! The bezel has been carved out with a cnc machine, leaving only the numbers. Then the void has then been filled with a ceramic material!!! Talk about doing things right! I find that fascinating.






Next up – a watch that I personally keep circling around. This could find its way to my collection one day. The Chronographe Monopoussoir Rattrapante also from LINESPORT. Lets just call it the Rattrapante ;-)

I was shown the Platinum and the Titanium. In principal the same, but so different when you experience them in the metal.















Both are stunning, stunning watches. For some reason, the Titanium seemed more convincing. Perhaps because a lot is going on, on the dial, the Ti feels more calm and balanced. 

The weight was also much more comfortable for me. It is feather light compared to the platinum piece. However, I am still hoping and praying that we will see this piece in the Souveraine Collection. That’s the one I REALLY want! What do you think? Please chime in ;-)







The movement is just stunning as most split seconds movents are. I just love to stare at it. 

The titanium watch has the movement built in solid Aluminum, whereas the Pt has the movement built in rose gold.
















Finally, I was shown the new table clock. It is a quartz clock with alarm, but it done in a very nice quality and finish. (price is 2230 Euro incl tax)

















Finally we went downstairs to see the service workshop where Lucas had a small surprise for us.

I didn’t take many pictures here because Christophe was not in.However, I wanted to show you this machine. 

It is a laser welding machine. Christophe uses it to weld gold or platinum on to your watch case if you have dinged it. Ive heard about this technique but wasn’t aware that it is so widely used.











And now, to what it was Lucas wanted to show us. In the workshop, I was pointed to an other machine.






This is the original Lathe that Mr Journe used to build all of his first watches, when his Atelier was located in Rue de Verneil, inParis  - and he made every watch himself. In the book by Jean-Pierre Grosz, you find a picture from 1987. I personally found it fascinating to see it and to think for a minute about the amazing watches that have come from this old lathe.

















I hope you enjoyed this visit to the F.P. Journe Paris Boutique!






More posts: Chronographe MonopoussoirCollection VilleretLinesportLuneOctaSouveraine

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Comments: view entire thread

 

Thank you Christian for taking us with you!

 
 By: Jay (Eire) : April 28th, 2019-17:15
The new slimmer bezel on the 40mm case is something I was unaware of, and possibly a game changer for some collectors. Personally, I always found the visual jump from 38 to 40 to be too much for me and much of that was the bezel I think. It's also interes... 

Thank you, Jay, my friend :-)

 
 By: ChristianDK : April 28th, 2019-22:48
I was also really happy to see this slimmer bezel. I think we will see it in more pieces as the collection gradually updates. About the 38 mm I think it depends on the model and what cases are still available. I am strong in my faith, that one day we will... 

An old thread, but I have been revisiting the question of differing bezel thicknesses.

 
 By: Jay (Eire) : February 13th, 2024-18:48
I went to the Boutique yesterday in fact to see several cases / watches side by side. The CS unfortunately for my taste remains with the thicker (or fat) bezel and as much as I’m drawn to a particular CS I’m struggling with how the bezel looks and how it ... 

Thanks for bringing up this old post. It’s interesting to re-read what I wrote 5 years ago…watch collecting was really something else back then

 
 By: ChristianDK : February 13th, 2024-20:17
Much more how it should be, in my opinion. You had the chance to see the watches, time to think about what you wanted and words like allocation where never used. Sorry for sounding very old but I miss those times. I understand what you’re saying Jay. The ... 

Different times, and not that long ago.

 
 By: Jay (Eire) : February 14th, 2024-02:14
I’m conflicted on the fact that I have come back to this same CS (Nacre dial) again and again for several years. And yes, originally it had been in 38mm but that has been off the table for a while now and yet I’ve still come back it again and again. I thi... 

It was is my pleasure, my friend.

 
 By: ChristianDK : April 28th, 2019-22:50
I think, knowing some of your amazing collection, the FPJ watches would suit your taste. So happy to see you here.

Thanks Christian - [nt]

 
 By: elliot55 : April 28th, 2019-21:03

Thanks Christian...

 
 By: elliot55 : April 28th, 2019-21:04
... A fun journey. The vertical tourbillon is amazing. - Scott

Dear Scott

 
 By: ChristianDK : April 28th, 2019-22:51
Truly my pleasure 😄 Thank you!

Thank you so much for your kind words.

 
 By: ChristianDK : April 28th, 2019-22:53
It was a lot of fun to do

My pleasure!

 
 By: ChristianDK : April 29th, 2019-01:45
Thank you for reading

Thanks Christian...

 
 By: seehoo : April 29th, 2019-03:09
for the very good report! Enjoyed looking at the pictures...especially of the tourbillon.

Thank you , Seehoo

 
 By: ChristianDK : April 29th, 2019-04:57
It was fun to do but wonderful with your positive feedback. Best Christian

Post Of The Year!

 
 By: M4 : April 29th, 2019-05:06
Wow, what a spectacular display of superb timepieces. For me, the beadblasted Pt Linesport takes first prize followed closely by the Ti Rattrapante. Super photos. Thanks for posting. M4

Wow, thank you so much for your kind words. I am so happy if you enjoyed it :-)

 
 By: ChristianDK : April 29th, 2019-05:26
Yes, that Pt Octa blew my mind! the effect on the surface is soo beautiful. The way it catches the light is really special. Unlike anything I have seen before. Now the Rattrapante - that keeps me awake at night Thank you so much for chiming in. It means a... 

Many thanks Christian for this great article

 
 By: Mike H : April 29th, 2019-05:50
I know Lucas since quite long, a very kind and competent person indeed. You seem to have taken the time to see many watches and visit the boutique in detail. You surely had a great time 👍😉.

Thank you so much, Mike .-)

 
 By: ChristianDK : April 29th, 2019-05:57
It is always a pleasure to go there, as you know Next time I am in Paris, we must meet. this time I didnt call, because it was just a quick trip with my wife. Im hoping some time, this summer good to hear from you, my friend. Very warm regards Christian

Likewise, dear Mike :-) [nt]

 
 By: ChristianDK : April 29th, 2019-12:27

This was an excellent and very thorough report, Christian.

 
 By: TheMadDruid : April 29th, 2019-08:25
A great read. Thanks for taking the time to record your impressions and document them with many terrific photos. Especially since I have perfected the skills of getting lost/not finding what I’m looking for in Paris. Didn’t get there. But this post takes ... 

Next time, Padj

 
 By: ChristianDK : April 29th, 2019-12:30
you must let me know you are in Paris. I will do my utmost to meet with you and we will go there together. It would be a lot of fun to meet you Thank you so much for your nice words. warm regards Christian

Thank you for the tour!

 
 By: cazalea : April 29th, 2019-10:28
My only "complaint" is that after introducing the staff persons who helped you, you had no photos of them ... I imagine all lined up in professional attire and smiling, with white gloves... Cheers, Cazalea

Spot on, Mike :-) ....

 
 By: ChristianDK : April 29th, 2019-12:36
I realized while I was editing....Before going there, I had planned on taking a picture of these kind people, but with all the talking and watches going in and out, costumers coming and going, I somehow forgot to do it. Im planning on making up for it dur... 

Thank you for the detailed article - your love and passion for FPJ watches is clear!

 
 By: NT931 : April 29th, 2019-17:30
And the picture of the original lathe is awe-inspiring indeed. What a piece of history!

A sincere pleasure:-) [nt]

 
 By: ChristianDK : April 29th, 2019-23:27

Thank you very much for this great post .

 
 By: Watchonthewrists : April 29th, 2019-23:22
Now i NEED a FPJ in my collection soon😉. Will def visit this Boutique when i am arround .

You really should have a look...

 
 By: ChristianDK : April 29th, 2019-23:33
There are so many great pieces in the collection, that didn’t get a mention in this post. Thank you for your kind words

Oh yes, she certainly is.

 
 By: ChristianDK : April 29th, 2019-23:46
Sadly, Maurine left 😢 She wanted to try to do something for herself.

Yes, she is. Exactly as you say, lots of knowledge and super nice. And always with a big smile 😊

 
 By: ChristianDK : April 30th, 2019-00:02
But seriously, that applies to each of them at the boutique. It is a small but super strong team.

Bezel

 
 By: JCL920CGG : April 30th, 2019-05:21
Thanks for the great write-up, very informative! Do you think all 40mm watches will now have the smaller bezel?

Very good question

 
 By: ChristianDK : April 30th, 2019-06:09
Im only guessing here!!! New model - i think so. I dont know if they will update all of the existing models. Those with many functions /crammed dials will benefit more. Larger apertures ect. The UTC could be an example that would be improved. I find it di... 

Thank you Christian....

 
 By: Greenwillow : April 30th, 2019-10:31
I throughly enjoyed reading your report. Having recently re-introduced myself to the brand, by adding a 40mm R/G CS, I am throughly enjoying wearing it. I would love to get the Octa Automatique Lune, as that would be perfect.

The CS is very dear to me. One of my all time favorite watches and probably the watch I wear the most.

 
 By: ChristianDK : April 30th, 2019-14:15
I agree with the Octa lune. There has been made some exquisite iterations. That watch has soul, in my view.

Fantastic post

 
 By: NML77 : April 30th, 2019-18:49
and pictures! I’m really intrigued by the new Octa sport in platinum. Haven’t seen it in person yet. Thank you for taking the time to write this up and sharing your experience. Best

My pleasure 😄

 
 By: ChristianDK : April 30th, 2019-21:52
Yes, that piece (unexpectedly) has caught my attention as well. Even after trying it, it keeps growing on me. I think this particular piece works extremely well in platinum compared with the Ti. It is very heavy though. There is a LOT of platinum in that ... 

Superb article! Nice to learn more bits of FPJ history. It's like a puzzle as you learn something new every time.

 
 By: cmmnsens : May 1st, 2019-14:14
I'm with you on several points you made regarding the platinum LS piece and the new 40mm Octa with thinner bezels. I saw the new Octa in Miami back in March and really liked the aesthetic - including the blue text instead of black. Also the case back was ... 

Thank you, for your kind words :-)

 
 By: ChristianDK : May 1st, 2019-21:43
Yes - the blue text. I forgot that. That looks great. There is an refinement and aesthetic attention to detail in the FPJ universe that only find in a few other brands. There is a lot more to finish than anglage and and black polish. Thank you for chiming... 

😆 [nt]

 
 By: ChristianDK : May 7th, 2019-10:48