F.P. Journe Vagabondage III Review

samwan · 2018-03-07T07:41:12Z

Explore samwan's F.P. Journe Vagabondage III, the final edition with digital jumping seconds, and delve into its unique complications and design.

samwan

WPS member · Independents forum

26 replies2933 views3 photos

Samwan provides an in-depth look at his F.P. Journe Vagabondage III, the final installment in the acclaimed trilogy. He shares the watch's history, from its charity auction origins to its unique digital jumping seconds complication, offering detailed observations and high-quality photographs.

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I made a hasty post earlier this year when the VIII arrived. In fact, the model was delivered as early as 2nd quarter 2017 but since I did not previously own the VI and VII, I had to wait for a designated VIII not being 'claimed' by the Vi and VII owner of the same serial number... Alas, I am happy to say, the wait is all worthwhile.

Here is a more detailed write-up:

The Vagabondage trilogy started in 2004, when F P Journe produced three unique watches with a flat torque design for the ICM charity (one in white gold, one in yellow gold and one in rose gold). They were very well received and sold for three times the estimate at the auction.

Encouraged by the positive reception, the manufacture launched in three steps the Vagabondage series:

2006 Vagabondage 1 - with wandering jumping hours

2010 Vagabondage II - with digital jumping hours and minutes

2017 - Vagabondage III - with jumping hours (at 11 o'clock), central minutes and digital jumping seconds (at 6 o'clock)

All three models were made with 69 pieces in platinum and 68 pieces in rose gold. The VIII is the third and final edition

The case measures 37.6 mm (width) x 45.2 mm (height) x 7.84 mm (thickness), Note the twin disc displaying the jumping seconds through the sapphire crystal and the blue hand for the power reserve (at 1 o'clock)

Typical of most FP Journe watches, the bridges and base plate are made in 18k red gold. The watch houses a manually wound movement with a remontir 'egalite that advances the time train each second.

The watch has a somewhat short power reserve - around 24 hours - necessitated by the vast amount of energy required to drive the jumping seconds mechanism. This is a fascinating creation. Watching the seconds jump makes one marvel at the wonderful design and mechanics. Perhaps the only criticism is that the jumping seconds is not tied to (in other words synchronized with) the hours and minute function. Thus when the seconds counter changes from 59 to 00, the minute hand does not necessarily move...

These photos are taken by my friend Ogygia. Hope you like them.

Sam

About the F.P. Journe Vagabondage I Ref. vagabondage

The F.P. Journe Vagabondage I represents the inaugural reference in the Vagabondage series, introduced in 2004. This reference establishes the foundation for F.P. Journe's exploration of unconventional time display concepts within a compact case format.

The 36.5mm platinum case houses the manual-winding caliber 1509 movement, delivering 40 hours of power reserve. The silver dial is protected by sapphire crystal, while a fixed bezel maintains clean lines. Water resistance extends to 30 meters, and the watch is completed with a leather strap.

This reference appeals to collectors seeking F.P. Journe's approach to alternative time displays in a more intimate case size. The platinum construction and manual movement align with the brand's commitment to traditional materials and hand-winding mechanisms. As the first Vagabondage reference, it occupies a specific position for collectors interested in F.P. Journe's horological concepts beyond conventional displays.

Specifications

Caliber: 1509

Case: Platinum

Diameter: 36.5 mm

Dial: Silver

Water Resist.: 30m

Crystal: Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

A community member suggests that the Vagabondage I is a distinct piece, separate from the II and III, based on information from the F.P. Journe boutique.
The dial, despite its complexity, is lauded as a beautiful combination of class and intricacy, with the jumping complication being particularly mesmerizing.
The jumping seconds mechanism is described as a 'feast for the eyes' and truly mesmerizing, though a question is raised about the centering of the digital seconds when the crown is pulled.
The dial is praised for its stunning appearance, but concerns are raised about the reliability of the movement due to the constant work of the seconds discs and the relatively short 24-hour power reserve.
The author acknowledges that the dial might appear busy, but considers it a worthwhile trade-off for the captivating jumping seconds mechanism.
The jumping complication is highlighted for its beauty, uniqueness, and practical benefit of making time reading easier.

The Discussion

Watchonthewrist

Mar 7, 2018

Huge Congrats 👏🏼

I just stopped drooling from your RS pics and now you show us this stunning FPJ 😱. I must admit that these two are grails to me 🙏🏻. Amazing collection you have and please dont stop posting pics please 🤗. Wear them in best of health 🙏🏻

samwan

Mar 7, 2018

Thank you for your kind words

I promise to more in the next couple of days....

Watchonthewrist

Mar 7, 2018

Thanks , looking forward to it 🤗 [nt]

Mar 7, 2018

Big congratulations!

That's a cool piece, for sure. Someday I'll own an FPJ . . . M4

NML77

Mar 7, 2018

Congratulations!

Fantastic watch! Looks great.

samwan

Mar 7, 2018

It feels substantial and

sits very comfortably on the wrist as well Thank you.

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About the F.P. Journe Vagabondage I Ref. vagabondage

Specifications

Key Points from the Discussion

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