F.P. Journe LineSport Automatique Reserve in Titanium: A Collector's Re-evaluation

ChristianDK · 2020-12-04T06:54:16Z

ChristianDK explores the F.P. Journe LineSport Automatique Reserve in titanium, sharing his journey from skepticism to appreciation for its unique blend of sportiness and elegance. Discover community insights on its design, wearability, and water resistance.

ChristianDK

WPS member · F.P. Journe forum

34 replies5973 views3 photos

ChristianDK's post offers a compelling re-evaluation of the F.P. Journe LineSport, particularly the Automatique Reserve in titanium. He candidly shares his initial skepticism about a 'sports' watch from the esteemed independent watchmaker and details how a hands-on experience shifted his perception. This article explores ChristianDK's journey to appreciating the LineSport's unique blend of informality and elegance, sparking a vibrant community discussion on its design, wearability, and place within the F.P. Journe oeuvre.

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Hi friends

its finally friday and so its time for our weekly tradition. Please drop by and say hi.

This week im posting a watch that isnt mine. This is the Automatique Reserve from the Line Sport. 44mm in Titanium. a picture I took early 2019.

I wanted to show it because seeing this piece changed my perception of the Line Sport and really began to warm up to it.

To be honest, I previously didnt give this line much credit. I felt it was not coherent with my perception of FPJ watches. And - I had a hard time seeing the point of making a "sports" watch out of an FPJ. in particular the Centigraphe and the Rattrapante.

Looking back, I feel, I was being too conservative. The Line Sport is offering something less formal, very light and with the comfort that a bracelet gives in hot and humid climates. I think - for me - the point is "less formal", going forward. This was already a big trend before COVID and is certainly not less during or after.

Wearing this piece for half an hour or so, made me fall a little bit in love. There are Journes that are higher on my wish list, but I do see a place for this one in my collection, just as I see a place for the Elegante (as you know).

I think it strikes a nice balance between informal and elegant. It is certainly no tool watch but fits the classic definition of a sports watch. nicely. I would still love to see it in a variation with a smaller case. I can easily pull off this size but my wrist is larger than average. I do see some wrists where it simply looks too big.

What do you think of the Line Sport?

Wishing you all a wonderful weekend

kind regards

Christian

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 lack of a screw-down crown and long-term rubber component replaceability were initial concerns for LineSport owners, though many have found the watches suitable for light water exposure.
F.P. Journe himself clarified that the Rattrapante complication, despite its delicate nature, is intended for the LineSport and would not be offered in the more classic lines, challenging some collectors' initial perceptions of where such a complication 'belongs'.
The titanium construction of the LineSport is frequently praised for its exceptional lightness and comfort, making it a highly wearable option.
Many collectors initially overlooked the LineSport but grew to appreciate its unique blend of sportiness and elegant Journe design, especially in titanium and without the rubber bumpers, considering it a 'sleeper' in the collection.
There is a strong division among collectors regarding the aesthetic importance of the rubber inserts on the LineSport, with some preferring the cleaner look without them while others see them as integral to the watch's identity.
Conflicting information from F.P. Journe regarding the water resistance of LineSport models, including the Automatique Reserve and the Elegante, has caused confusion among owners about their suitability for swimming versus splash resistance.
The 44mm LineSport models, particularly with yellow dials, are often described as wearing smaller than their size suggests due to their lightweight titanium construction, making them comfortable and 'fun' daily drivers.

The Discussion

lykoxx

Dec 4, 2020

Line sport

Hello, Without rubber the Line sport has lost herDNA. For me the news models are more sport-chic than realy sport. Isn’t it. I can wear my ARS doing VTT. Motorbike. It’s light and confortable.

ChristianDK

Dec 4, 2020

Thanks for bringing this up :-)

I can see your point! Strong argument. Definately the identity is stronger with the rubber inserts ... However, personallty, I prefer the Line Sport without. I can see how it was an important part of the look but I still think it is a very recognizable and "unique" look, so for me, it hasnt lost its DNA. There are just two strong camps on this question. Interesting! great post

India Whiskey Charlie

Dec 4, 2020

Without a doubt, the Linesport is just as lovely as the rest of the FPJ lineup

And, the titanium is super light and super comfy (the right choice IMO): But today, I am still sporting this Havana:

ChristianDK

Dec 4, 2020

Oh, yes, Viken. We have been discussing the Rattrapante often as we both have a lotof love for this one....

I thought at first, it was odd to put it in a "sports" watch because it is such a delicate complication.- Except - Sports watch is a very different concept from a tool watch (like a Rolex). It A Sports watch is merely a more informal look ( like a sports jacket in the traditional sense). I proposed FP to make the Rattrapante in the Classic line as I felt it would belong here. He was very clear that this would NOT happen. I have to say I have changed my mind. Yours is an amazing watch, as is the

Dchang81

Dec 4, 2020

Love the octasport

For the longest time I thought I was the only one who liked this model. The confusing bit was journe said years ago that this watch was surface swimmable. Now they told me no when I asked a month ago. Even more confusing is my wife likes it. Calls the yellow dial the Ronald McDonald’s edition with the red and yellow accents

India Whiskey Charlie

Dec 4, 2020

Ronald McDonald Edition...

LOL! Photo: F.P.Journe

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F.P. Journe LineSport Automatique Reserve in Titanium: A Collector's Re-evaluation

About the F.P. Journe Élégante Ref. elegante

Specifications

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Specifications

Key Points from the Discussion

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