F.P. Journe Chronomètre Bleu: A Collector's Reflection on Market Evolution
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F.P. Journe Chronomètre Bleu: A Collector's Reflection on Market Evolution

By Jay (Eire) · Jul 19, 2022 · 24 replies
Jay (Eire)
WPS member · F.P. Journe forum
24 replies4434 views1 photos
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Jay (Eire) reflects on the F.P. Journe Chronomètre Bleu, a watch he acquired during a period when independent watchmakers were more accessible to collectors. His post captures the sentiment of a bygone era, prompting a discussion among enthusiasts about the evolution of the market and the enduring appeal of this iconic timepiece. This article explores the community's shared experiences and insights into the Chronomètre Bleu's journey from an entry-level Journe to a highly sought-after reference.

When I bought this watch every Journe (pretty much) was on sale.  Like most, almost all, independents at that time it was a buyers market for sure as you could buy current production or discontinued references equally easy from your AD, Boutique or the used and gray markets. 

A great time to be a watch collector.

In terms of Journe, the CB was of course the cheapest entry point, both new at list price and in the used and gray markets.  

Times have changed.  And it’s good for Independents, good for Journe and mostly good for collecting and collectors. 

Here’s the CB this morning.  Haven’t worn it in a little while.  Great to have it back on the wrist; it kinda reminds me of good times several years ago.




About the F.P. Journe Chronomètre Souverain Ref. chronometre

The F.P. Journe Chronomètre Souverain represents the foundational timepiece within the brand's Souveraine collection. This reference demonstrates the manufacture's approach to precision timekeeping through manual winding mechanics, positioned as a core offering in F.P. Journe's lineup.

The 40mm case is executed in 18k rose gold with a fixed bezel configuration. A sapphire crystal protects the silver dial, while the manual-winding caliber 1304 movement provides an 80-hour power reserve. The timepiece features 30-meter water resistance and is paired with a leather strap. Production commenced in 2000.

This reference appeals to collectors seeking F.P. Journe's mechanical execution in a fundamental three-hand configuration. The substantial power reserve and manual winding caliber position this model for enthusiasts who appreciate traditional watchmaking approaches within the Souveraine series framework.

Specifications

Caliber
1304
Case
18k Rose Gold
Diameter
40 mm
Dial
Silver
Water Resist.
30m
Crystal
Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
KE
keks
Jul 19, 2022

looks amazing on your wrist!

PI
piccolochimico (aka dsgalaxy1)
Jul 19, 2022

Because today just a basic watch purchase is a matter for millionaires. I believe that there are new genuine watch aficionados but I doubt there are many buyers for a CB at 80k. People have lost the perspective, because though we all know how magnificent the Bleu is, is there any reason for these prices increase but speculation? I guess you bought it at 1/8 of the current average market price😎😎😎 As I remind to a friend of mine (who didn't buy it at 11k) buy now (years ago) or cry later😁😁😁

PA
patrick_y
Jul 19, 2022

As always, you're wearing a cool outfit!

CA
cazalea
Jul 19, 2022

It seemed like a good idea at the time (2007), and I did get 120,000 miles out of the Honda, but still ... Cazalea

JA
Jay (Eire)
Jul 19, 2022

I guess that utility was the focus and you definitely received that from the Honda it seems.

CA
cazalea
Jul 19, 2022

At 60 mpg, I reckoned it saved me a substantial amound over its lifetime. Honda 120,000 miles at 60 mpg=2000 @ $3=$6000 fuel Volvo 120,000 miles at 20 mpg=6000 @ $18,000 fuel My boss at that time was driving a Chevy Suburban doing 12 mpg so his cost was around 10,000 gal or $30,000! But the fun thing about the Insight was its extremely light weight which made it more like a 4-wheel motorcycle than a car -- very nimble and fun to drive if you flogged it. And in some ways the 7000 RPM 3-valve engi

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