F.P. Journe Élégante 40mm: A Collector's First Quartz Acquisition

sham1 · 2020-02-05T00:42:24Z

Discover sham1's journey to acquiring his first F.P. Journe Élégante 40mm in Geneva. Explore community insights on this unique quartz timepiece and its place in a luxury collection.

sham1

WPS member · F.P. Journe forum

48 replies10070 views3 photos

In this insightful post, sham1 shares the significant milestone of acquiring his first F.P. Journe, an elegant 40mm Élégante, during a memorable trip to Geneva. His narrative offers a unique perspective on choosing a quartz timepiece from a brand renowned for its mechanical masterpieces, highlighting the personal connection that often transcends conventional collecting wisdom. sham1's experience provides valuable context for collectors considering the Élégante, particularly those who appreciate its innovative features and distinctive design.

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Two things happened for the first time last week while I was in Geneva. After more than a dozen visits to my favourite city, I finally bought myself a watch and it was my first ever FP Journe. I had made it a point to only visit three boutiques while I was there - yeah, immense will power to limit it to to only three - the M.A.D. gallery, the Patek Salon and FP Journe. I had spotted and was impressed with the Elegante when I first saw it at the SIHH last year and unlike many of my fellow purists who have opted for the larger 48mm version, I was partial to the smaller 40mm version due to my wrist size. Some of you may have read in the Patek forum that I had very recently purchased two Pateks in the space of 3 weeks (the 5212A and the 7234A) so another watch purchase would have been bordering on being reckless and irresponsible.

But when I set eyes on the 40mm Elegante, all logic left my mind (funny how I seem to be suffering from this chronic incurable disorder) and I was soon to be the proud owner of my first ever quartz watch in more than 30 years!! The service at the boutique was exemplary as it was at the Patek Salon and the M.A.D. Gallery. I love this FP Journe and many will prefer Journe's other offerings but this is truly my favourite FPJ.. Thank you for reading!

About the F.P. Journe Élégante Ref. elegante

The F.P. Journe Élégante represents the brand's entry into electro-mechanical timekeeping, distinguished by its hybrid movement technology within the Élégante series. This reference marks a departure from traditional mechanical movements in the F.P. Journe collection.

The 40mm titanium case houses the caliber 1210 electro-mechanical movement, paired with a silver dial and fixed bezel. Construction features include sapphire crystal and a rubber strap, with water resistance rated to 30 meters. The titanium case material provides a lightweight alternative to traditional precious metal constructions.

This reference appeals to collectors interested in F.P. Journe's exploration of alternative movement technologies beyond purely mechanical calibers. The electro-mechanical movement and titanium construction position this piece as a distinct offering within the brand's portfolio, catering to those seeking contemporary technical approaches in independent watchmaking. Production commenced in 2014.

Specifications

Caliber: 1210

Case: Titanium

Diameter: 40 mm

Dial: Silver

Water Resist.: 30m

Crystal: Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

The F.P. Journe Élégante line is rapidly gaining traction, despite the irony of a 'PuristPro' community embracing a quartz watch. Its appeal becomes clear upon handling, even for those accustomed to mechanical movements.
The M.A.D. Gallery in Geneva offers an amazing experience, showcasing unique horological and mechanical art. The Patek Philippe museum is also a must-visit, though it has unfortunately been targeted by robberies.
When choosing between watches, prioritize the one you truly desire over a more affordable alternative. Saving up for the right watch often prevents future regrets and subsequent purchases of the more expensive, coveted piece.
The 40mm Élégante appears to be the perfect size for the author's wrist, complementing his magnificent collection with an exceptional and unique piece. The community looks forward to hearing his long-term impressions.
F.P. Journe's venture into the non-mechanical segment with the Élégante is unique, featuring a clever movement that stops when not in use and automatically adjusts to the correct time when moved again.
Consider Grand Seiko for superb, frighteningly accurate quartz watches, as they offer exceptional quality in this segment.
A first F.P. Journe acquisition is an intense experience, and quartz watches, like the Longines Conquest V.H.P. GMT, can be appealing for their technology, not just their price point.

The Discussion

Watchonthewrist

Feb 5, 2020

Huge Congrats my friend, a absolute beautiful watch and def one i am still trying to add soon .

Its a amazing watch and a perfect daily imho . Wear it in best of health

sham1

Feb 5, 2020

Thank you very much my friend!

I have actually caught on your fever and bought myself a salmon dial watch 3 days ago!! I know, I know - that is my fifth stainless steel watch in 5 months and my 4th in 6 weeks!!! But it is a special piece and I shall post it next week. Thoughts of you liking this watch kept going through my mind throughout the purchase process and I rate this watch as having the best finished manual winding movement under USD40k but that is just blind me!

Watchonthewrist

Feb 5, 2020

You make me very curious my friend 😉

Really looking forward to see your (again) next new purchase ( i have an idea🤔but not sure yet ) . Your really on fire 😁.

sham1

Feb 5, 2020

I have never bought so many watches

in such a short space of time but I love them all and like to think that they are all keepers! Time will tell. But the salmon dial piece needs to be in your collection somehow!!

Jurry

Feb 5, 2020

Million congrats

Beautiful watch. And to offer some comfort: we all suffer from that same mad disease you mentioned. It’s interesting to see such a brand using quartz in a model like this.

sham1

Feb 5, 2020

That is a lot of congrats!! :-)

And a million 'you are most welcome' to you! It was nice to see FPJ venturing into the non mechanical segment but in typical FPJ style, it is quite unique as the watch stops when not used but adjusts itself to the correct time when moved again! Very clever actually and lovely to witness in action.