F.P. Journe Elegante: A Collector's Journey from Scarcity to Strap Swaps
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F.P. Journe Elegante: A Collector's Journey from Scarcity to Strap Swaps

By n0wjsti · May 28, 2021 · 23 replies
n0wjsti
WPS member · F.P. Journe forum
23 replies3950 views2 photos
f 𝕏 in 💬 🔗

n0wjsti's journey into F.P. Journe ownership, particularly with the distinctive Elegante, offers a compelling look at the lengths collectors will go to acquire a coveted timepiece when local access is limited. His experience highlights the challenges of sourcing, purchasing above retail, and even navigating strap changes for a brand with a highly exclusive distribution model. This article explores n0wjsti's personal story and the community's shared insights on the F.P. Journe Elegante.

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Greetings all, I am new to the forum and I am glad to see that there is an active FPJ thread here. There is no FPJ boutique or AD in my country (closest to me is either in Singapore or Hong Kong), so although I've been interested with the Elegante since end 2018, there was just no way for me to acquire one. Back in April this year, one of my grey dealers listed one for sale and I jumped. It stung to pay over retail for one, but I'd been monitoring the prices and watched as it got further and further out of reach... so when the opportunity presented itself, I decided to take the plunge. 

The watch was originally sold on a khaki strap, and also had a second, new, midnight blue strap. I'd asked around but no one seemed to be able to advise me on what I needed to change the strap. And then I stumbled upon someone with one on Instagram (@petitsamourai), who helped to create a step-by-step video and let me know which Bergeon tool I'd need to swap the deployant over. Now that I am able to change the straps myself, I have also reached out to FPJ HK to order a colourful summer strap. Unfortunately, they do not ship out, so I will be getting help from a friend who will help to purchase the strap and ship it over to me. 

I'm looking to get my hands on some other FPJ in the future, so fingers crossed. In the meantime, some pics...






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

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The Discussion
RN
rnaden
May 28, 2021
Congrats. A very nice and comfortable watch for sure.

Here’s a smaller sibling saying “hi” from the same region

N0
n0wjsti
May 28, 2021
Beautiful E40!

The Elegante 40 looks very good on your wrist!

N0
n0wjsti
May 28, 2021
Also, I'm actually from MY as well! Although my VPN was set to SG, and now I can't seem to change my location...

RN
rnaden
May 28, 2021
That’s cool

Let’s stay in touch. A lot of other cool purists from here in KL. We can catch up after this lockdown is over Richard

N0
n0wjsti
May 28, 2021
Awesome!

Looks like true lockdown for 2 weeks starting 1st June. Stay safe, looking forward to gtg someday.

CH
ChristianDK
May 28, 2021
First of all a very warm welcome here.

thank you for a wonderful first post, telling us your story and Congratulations on your Elegante. I understand your process and I think you have ended up making a smart move. Even if the Elegante isn’t for everyone, there is also not other watch similar to it. I have come to absolutely love mine over time. I think it filled a gap in my collection and it is so versatile that it gets lots of wrist time. Which summer color did you pick? Please tell us a little about what other watches you are inter

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