The path of the Chronomètre Furtif – a watch of artisanal luxury – has its roots in a recent one-of-a-kind piece, destined for the Only Watch 2024 auction, an international initiative to support research into muscular dystrophy. That first model, the Chronomètre Furtif Bleu, featured a tantalum case and bracelet. Today, that experience translates into a limited production run for the Sport line, featuring different materials and technical solutions yet consistent with the philosophy of the FPJourne Manufacture.
A high density, nearly indestructible case
For this new edition, François-Paul Journe has chosen to use the tungsten carbide, interspersed with tantalum elements, for a timepiece measuring 42 mm in diameter and 9,5 mm thick. The hardness of the material – close to that of sapphire – and its density, twice that of steel, makes it particularly suitable for a watch designed to last.
The construction of the case is entrusted to Geneva Boxers, an industrial facility fully integrated into the manufacturing process since 2012 and located in Meyrin, near Geneva. Here, state-of-the-art machinery allows for the processing of a notoriously complex material, requiring innovative tools and processes capable of pushing the limits of engineering.
The same care is applied to the three-row bracelet, also made entirely from tungsten carbide, the result of the know-how of specialized craftsmen accustomed to shaping demanding metals.
The Grand Feu dial: a disc born from fire
Completing the case is an enamel dial. Grand Feu mirror polished anthracite grey on white gold, made by The Cadraniers of Geneva, another artisanal entity of the FPJourne galaxy.
The Grand Feu technique requires successive stages of deposition, firing, and polishing at over 800°C. Slight deformation, cracks, or chromatic variations are always present risks, managed by expert hands. Once the process is complete, the numerals and minute track are laser-engraved: details that remain visible only by tilting the dial towards the light, in keeping with the name. Stealthy.
The hands – hours and minutes painted in a similar shade to the dial – are designed to visually “disappear”, while the central seconds hand, white and very light, introduces an immediate graphic contrast.
The 1522 caliber: technical minimalism at the service of time
Inside beats the new movement 1522, developed entirely in-house: a manually wound mechanical calibre in 18-carat rose gold, with in-line wheel train and a configuration that prioritises precision and readability.
The four-mass balance oscillates at 3 Hz (21.600 vibrations/hour), while the 15-tooth escape wheel with straight linear pallet fork underlines the constant search for the essential, without superfluous elements.
On the case back, the rose gold plate finished with traditional Haute Horlogerie decorations features two indications:
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la power reserve of the two barrels in parallel (56 hours), at 12 o'clock
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le moon phases, represented with great realism, at 6 o'clock
The crown allows the time and moon phase to be adjusted, maintaining intuitive operation despite the internal complexity.
A philosophy: to see the time only for oneself
Il Chronomètre Furtif It is a watch designed for those who prefer sobriety and discretionThe time is legible, yet almost intimate: not immediately exposed to the gaze of others. The combination of technical materials, artisanal know-how, and a movement designed to last places this timepiece in a dimension where experimentation and tradition coexist.
