From Nautilus to Journe & Freak Out

Mohannad (aka Riddler) · 2018-08-17T23:52:40Z

Mohannad (aka Riddler) trades his Patek Philippe Nautilus for an F.P. Journe Centigraphe and Ulysse Nardin Freak Out, seeking niche horology over status symbols.

Mohannad (aka Riddler)

WPS member · Horological Meandering forum

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Mohannad (aka Riddler) shares his decision to part ways with his Patek Philippe Nautilus, driven by its increasing status as a widespread symbol of wealth. He outlines his new acquisitions: an F.P. Journe Centigraphe and a Ulysse Nardin Freak Out, reflecting a preference for niche, artisanal timepieces over popular 'status symbol' watches. This post sparks a lively discussion on collecting philosophy and the allure of independent watchmaking.

Whenever a model of any brand becomes status symbol it pushes me away
Happened with the offshore
Happened with RM
and now with my Nautilus
I decided to part ways with it
And getting these instead

Already put a deposit on the Journe

Requested my AD to get me one (gave me a great discount too)

Let the others show off there status watches while I quietly enjoy these beauties in discreetness hehehe

Of course I’m not ranting or have anything against buying watches as status symbol of wealth or whatever reason to each his own and I do respect that

But for me when some models become trend it’s a very bad sign for me
Where I go or travel all I see are Nautiluses RMs and Offshores and Royaloaks and of course the prime Rolexes you know the usual suspects
So I tend to take a different path away from all that hustle and bustle

The CENTIGRAPHE has been on my mind for a very very long time and I even posted a while back whether to get a CENTIGRAPHE or an URWERK
I guess I’m getting both at the end

URWERK is a different kind of richard mille but more niche
The Journe about same age as both RM and URWERK but more purist more a collector watch also niche

And as for the FREAK OUT we got to admit it’s BADA$$ as hell and the Freak was a dream watch too but waited for just the right model and time of course

The next couple of months should be very interesting and very exciting

About the F.P. Journe Centigraphe Souverain Ref. centigraphe

The F.P. Journe Centigraphe Souverain represents the brand s approach to chronograph complications within the Souverain collection. This reference features the specialized caliber 1506 movement and carries the distinctive Centigraphe designation, positioning it as F.P. Journe s chronograph offering in their manual-winding lineup.

The 40mm case is crafted from 18k rose gold and fitted with a sapphire crystal. The silver dial provides the backdrop for the chronograph functions. The manual-winding caliber 1506 movement delivers an 80-hour power reserve. Water resistance is rated to 30 meters, and the watch is completed with a leather strap. The fixed bezel maintains clean proportions around the case perimeter.

This reference appeals to collectors seeking F.P. Journe s interpretation of chronograph mechanics in precious metal construction. Production began in 2007, establishing this as part of the contemporary F.P. Journe catalog. The Centigraphe attracts those interested in independent watchmaking combined with traditional manual-winding chronograph complications, offering substantial power reserve within the 40mm rose gold case format.

Specifications

Caliber: 1506

Case: 18k Rose Gold

Diameter: 40 mm

Dial: Silver

Water Resist.: 30m

Crystal: Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

While understanding the desire to move away from popular pieces, a contributor argues against ditching them entirely, noting that modern Rolex, for example, is often underappreciated by some collectors despite its quality.
Any item more expensive than necessary can be a status symbol; some Rolex models, like a platinum Day-Date 2 with a plain bezel and ice blue dial, can be understated and overlooked by those chasing overt status.
A contributor suggests considering vintage watches as an alternative, noting that the servicing cost of a Journe could be comparable to the total cost of a vintage piece.
The author reiterates his motivation: a desire for passion, craftsmanship, and artistry over showing off wealth, noting that the Nautilus's widespread visibility in major cities has diminished its appeal for him.
Selling a Nautilus for a Journe is justified by its superior horological content and financial gain, as the Journe offers a better watch for the value, despite the Nautilus not being as common as some other hyped brands.
The Urwerk is praised for its lightness and scratch resistance, making it suitable for daily wear and active sports, with other traditional watches feeling heavy in comparison.

The Discussion

mahesh

Aug 18, 2018

On a lighter note...(crédit:gentleman from our forum) Best, Mahesh.,

Arie - Mr Orange

Aug 18, 2018

Purely out of curiosity...what car do you drive?

Arie - Mr Orange

Aug 18, 2018

But wouldn’t you consider that a status symbol also? ;-) ;-)

Mohannad (aka Riddler)

Aug 18, 2018

I’m the kind of guy that doesn’t change cars often they tend to stay with me for 10+ years (I still have my 2003 SL) So I wanted a car that can stand the test of time design wise And AMs are of a few brands that actually have that and age well So my drive wasn’t status at all although embedded it is can’t deny that but I also bought it brand new from the dealer at almost 40% off ( market was slow in 2013 here) so that was also a HUGE factor plus it’s a sports four door which I wanted due to the

sham1

Aug 18, 2018

I believe in one being their own person so forget about what the norm is - making yourself happy should always be the norm!!!

Mohannad (aka Riddler)

Aug 18, 2018

Honestly I believe the CENTIGRAPHE is a very much better watch than the 5980 It has something about it and the 1/100 second counter is a mesmerizing event The Freak well it’s the Freak

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About the F.P. Journe Centigraphe Souverain Ref. centigraphe

Specifications

Key Points from the Discussion

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