F.P. Journe Chronomètre Bleu Acquisition

NT931 · 2016-05-31T08:33:30Z

NT931 shares his exciting journey of acquiring an F.P. Journe Chronomètre Bleu, from first sight to a handshake deal in 24 hours. Discover community insights on its tantalum case, rose gold movement, and the debate around AR coating.

NT931's post captures the thrill of an unexpected acquisition, detailing his swift journey from admiring the F.P. Journe Chronomètre Bleu at a local GTG to owning one within 24 hours. His narrative highlights the watch's allure and the unique circumstances that led to its immediate availability, sidestepping the typically long waiting list. This piece resonates with collectors who understand the passion and serendipity involved in securing a coveted timepiece.

The poison struck deep...

I was dumbstruck, entranced ... bewitched, bothered and bewildered at our recent GTG earlier this month.

I had fallen for the Chronometre Bleu. I had always liked simpler dress watches, and this fit the bill.

Plus I didn't really have a blue dress watch yet (my RO counted as a sports watch... ahem)

But the waiting period was very long indeed.

Then on Sunday night, Ianny the Master Enabler messaged me to tell me a local collector was planning to sell his Chronometre Bleu.

A quick meeting was arranged, speedy negotiation occurred, with a deal eventually sealed between gentlemen with a handshake, and 24 hours later the watch was mine!

And now, to quote Ella Fitzgerald, I'm bewitched, bothered and bewildered... no more!

Big thanks to Ianny as always, and also to L, fellow collector and a real gentlemen!

Key Points from the Discussion

The Chronomètre Bleu's rose gold movement and tantalum case combination is considered a best-in-class offering.
A common frustration among owners is the lack of anti-reflective (AR) coating on the crystal, making it difficult to fully appreciate the dial without glare. This is particularly ironic given the watch's blue dial.
Some collectors believe that other F.P. Journe watches would also benefit significantly from AR coating to enhance dial legibility, though there are rumors of almost-colorless AR coatings becoming available.
The small crown on the Chronomètre Bleu is noted as a minor drawback, as it makes winding the watch while on the wrist challenging.
Another collector shared a photo of their own Chronomètre Bleu, reminiscing about their past ownership of the model.

The Discussion

cazalea

May 31, 2016

I have yet to succumb, but I believe I will be joining the owner's club someday

I love that watch. Good catch! Cazalea

Horology75

May 31, 2016

Excellent catch !

Beautiful and IMHO the best watch in this category . Rose gold movement and tantalum metal case is the best in its league .

mtrigueiro

Jun 14, 2016

Strap question

Dear friends I got an extra strap of my choosing as a gift from the dealer and was wondering which colors you suggest for this watch. Thank you Marcio

Watchobserver

Feb 4, 2017

Strap

The camel one goes amazing with this piece!

mahesh

May 31, 2016

Congratulations ! in deed a great watch with an amazing dial... [nt]

Visually stunning movement too...

Alkiro1

May 31, 2016

Very good choice

Certainly one of the best watch to enter into the FP Journe universe. Congrats

Key Points from the Discussion

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