F.P. Journe Chronomètre Souverain Time Setting Guide

Key Points from the Discussion

• Most watches, including F.P. Journe CS, Panerai Submersible, Rolex Explorer, Zenith El Primero, JLC Reverso, Nomos Metro, Lange Saxonia, and Grand Seiko SBGW, advance hands by turning the crown counterclockwise when facing it. However, some watches, like the Breguet 5177, operate in the opposite direction, requiring a clockwise turn to advance the hands.
• While 'faux hacking' (applying backward pressure to stop the seconds hand) is generally not recommended and can be more serious for tourbillon movements, it is typically not damaging to standard movements. However, the balance spring may take time to recover, potentially affecting accuracy for the first few minutes after restarting.
• F.P. Journe's movements are intentionally designed without a hacking seconds feature. The brand's philosophy, as explained by F.P. Journe himself, suggests that precise setting to the second is less critical than the movement's overall stability and rate.
• For F.P. Journe watches, the most accurate way to set the time, including stopping the seconds hand, is by turning the crown counterclockwise.
• Many high-end brands, including Patek Philippe, often produce watches without hacking seconds, making exact time synchronization challenging for collectors who prioritize precision.
• Despite the lack of hacking seconds, the F.P. Journe Chronomètre Souverain is noted by its owner as being exceptionally accurate, often outperforming other regulated luxury timepieces in their collection.