Part 2: Epic OC Trip-F.P. Journe Event & WatchCrunch Meetup @ The Montage Laguna Beach

Part 1- Trip to California turns into EPIC SHOPPING at South Coast Plaza

If anybody missed the first part of the story, I linked it above so that you can read that before continuing on.

After leaving Louis Vuitton at South Coast Plaza, I headed over to the F.P. Journe event at Hyde Park Jewelers in Fashion Island Newport Beach. To my utter surprise was Tim Mosso standing in the middle of the store talking to a gentleman about a Chronomètre Bleu. This was probably The coolest moment for me because that’s a real life celebrity in my world. To me, Tim Mosso is as famous as Taylor Swift is to a teenage girl. I was kinda awe struck. All I wanted to do was follow him around while he explained all the Journe’s in the display cases.

An absolutely fascinating moment was when he pulled out a Chronomètre à Resonance and started to explain how it all worked. The F.P. Journe Chronomètre à Résonance utilizes the phenomenon of resonance to synchronize two separate timekeeping mechanisms within the watch, aiming to enhance its precision. The watch operates with two balances, which begin to synchronize through the natural physical laws of resonance, eventually stabilizing the timekeeping of the watch. There is no mechanical connection between the two; instead, they synchronize through the transmission of vibrational energy across the movement. This synchronization helps to correct any minor deviations in timekeeping, thus improving accuracy. The technical intricacy of this watch represents a modern application of a concept that has been explored in horology for centuries. Here is a rose gold model pictured below. ⬇️

The caliber 1520 inside the F.P. Journe Chronomètre à Résonance is a testament to Journe’s innovative spirit in watchmaking. It features a single mainspring barrel that powers both gear trains leading to the synchronized balances. With the introduction of remontoirs d'egalité on each gear train, the watch delivers consistent energy to the balances, which is crucial for maintaining the resonance effect. These remontoirs release energy in one-second intervals, ensuring the movement maintains amplitude and, consequently, accuracy over time, up to approximately 28 hours of isochronous action out of its 48-hour power reserve. The remontoirs act as a countermeasure to any potential loss of synchronization, making the caliber 1520 not only a marvel of engineering but a hallmark of precision.

The exact time it takes for the two balance wheels in the F.P. Journe Chronomètre à Résonance to synchronize can vary. Tim was saying that generally, it may take several minutes for the balances to fall into resonance and start beating in unison. This period is necessary for the balance wheels to adjust to each other's rhythm, leveraging the principles of resonance until they achieve synchronized motion.

Then check out these Centigraphs!! if I’m honest, it would take me days to explain how they engineered the centigraph.

The F.P. Journe Centigraphe is a chronograph designed to measure time very precisely, up to 1/100th of a second. It does this through an inventive mechanism that's distinct from typical chronographs. Unlike standard models that may use a vertical clutch or lateral coupling, the Centigraphe features a central barrel that powers the chronograph independently of the main watch movement. This design allows for precise time measurement without affecting the watch's overall timekeeping. Its innovative approach and design pay homage to historical watchmaking while showcasing F.P. Journe's commitment to originality and precision.

Chronograph movements can be largely divided into categories depending on the control organ (cam or column wheel) and the engagement system (vertical or horizontal clutches, or oscillating pinion). Unlike typical chronographs that draw power from the main gear train, the Centigraphe's chronograph function operates from its own power source, provided by a dual-direction winding barrel. This design choice leaves the engagement system to mainly control the speed of the chronograph's operation, showcasing a novel approach to watch movement design.

Utilize this link, if you want to dive deep into how the photograph actually works. Insight: The Ingenuity of the F.P. Journe Centigraphe

Handling the Centigraphe Sport in Aluminum was an eye-opener for its astonishing lightness, tipping the scales at just around 50 grams on my wrist. This featherweight sensation makes it easy to forget you're wearing it, a stark contrast to its substantial value. The entire movement crafted from aluminum contributes to its minimal weight, blending advanced horology with unparalleled comfort in wear. It's a remarkable experience to wear a watch of such value and technical sophistication yet barely feel its presence.

The watch is powered by the Calibre 1506, which is a testament to F.P. Journe's innovative approach to watchmaking. Crafted primarily from aluminium, this watch stands out for its lightweight yet durable design, making it particularly suitable for sporting activities. On May 27, 2012, during its racing debut at the Indy500, the Centigraphe Sport adorned Jean Alesi's wrist, proudly displaying its distinctive black and gold design on the Lotus Dallara he drove. This marked a significant milestone, blending the worlds of precision horology and motorsports in a memorable moment of synergy.

The Calibre 1506 is a mechanical marvel, featuring a hand-wound movement that can measure elapsed times with impressive precision. Its unique ability to function independently from the main gear train highlights Journe's commitment to combining technical sophistication with practical utility.

After exploring the Linesport series in aluminum, my attention was captured by a meteorite Pepsi Rolex showcased in their display case. Unbeknownst to me at that moment, I would soon be leaving with that very watch.

I was so immersed in the Journe event that I lost track of time. Glancing at my watch, I realized I had to rush to Laguna Beach for our WatchCrunch meetup at The Montage!

My heartfelt thanks to @FlatteryCamp for sharing those photos—I completely missed that opportunity. I’m motivated to step up for our next gathering in Geneva. It was a memorable meetup, with a dozen enthusiasts joining us. A big shout-out to everyone who made it; your presence made it incredibly special!

That wraps up Part 2! Stay tuned for Part 3, where I’ll dive into some exclusive pieces from Happy Jewelers, along with insights on my meteorite Pepsi acquisition and the timepieces I exchanged for it. It’s going to be an exciting reveal! #watchcrunchcommunity #meetup