FP Journe Chronomètre Bleu vs. Credor Eichi II
Independents

FP Journe Chronomètre Bleu vs. Credor Eichi II

By sham1 · May 23, 2018 · 40 replies
sham1
WPS member · Independents forum
40 replies10950 views4 photos
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Sham1 initiates a compelling discussion on the pursuit of horological simplicity and exquisite finishing, drawing inspiration from Leonardo Da Vinci. The post contrasts established brands like Patek Philippe and A. Lange & Söhne with independent watchmakers, focusing on the FP Journe Chronomètre Bleu and Credor Eichi II as prime examples of accessible high-end time-only watches.

Not my words but those of Leonardo Da Vinci which I fully subscribe to. I have always been partial to time only watches and the industry has never been flooded with more choices than there is today.  There are plenty Patek Calatravas and Lange Saxonia and 1815s that will satisfy one's craving for a time only watch.  But there are also independents like Smith, Voutilainen, Frodsham, Gauthier and Rexhepi who have taken movement finishing to another level.  For many of us, these are the upper echelons of watch making and are quite unaffordable.  Perhaps I am not comparing like with like but two watches that I feel are able to satisfy one's desire for fine finishing with accuracy and reliability at a not too exorbitant price are the FP Journe Chronometre Blue and the recently launched Credor Eichi II in rose gold.  Some might even argue that  both these watches would be able to hold their own against the very best.  I would not disagree.  But if one had to choose only one, which would it be?!

Your thoughts are most welcome and are appreciated.




What a dial! Difficult to make with 7 layers of lacquer while the case is in tantalum




FP Journe's signature 18 carat rose gold movement




A porcelain dial and the sweep second hand is a marvel, thanks to the spring drive movement. It just glides majestically. Photo borrowed from Deployant.




A power reserve adorns one of the best finished movements, bar none!


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
WA
Watchonthewrist
May 23, 2018

But if i have to choice i would pick the CB but mainly because of that stunning blue dail 👌🏻

SH
sham1
May 23, 2018

I know how you like nice dials!!

BR
brauner
May 23, 2018

Like the FPJ very much

SH
sham1
May 23, 2018

I think the Credor is a somewhat dark horse. Not many know of its strengths and it looks quite simple but it is accurate to 15 seconds a month which is quite remarkable!

JA
Jay (Eire)
May 23, 2018

I have seen the Credor in the metal once, and obviously in pictures many times. It just doesn't do anything for me and for that reason would never be a consideration. Also, if I'm not mistaken these watches are in two different post codes in terms of retail price, even if there was a debate I think this fact would be make the choice even clearer.

SH
sham1
May 23, 2018

Yes the Credor is double the price of the FP Journe yet I pitch them against each other, such is the value for money of the Chronometre Bleu. The Credor however still offers excellent value for money as its finishing rivals watches costing twice as much. Perhaps this make the Chronometre Bleu the bargain of the bunch!! I feel the Bleu has more character looking at the dial and movement construction and the Eichi II's main criticism is perhaps it is too understated. The rose gold Eichi II in my o

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