Watchmaker F.P. Journe And Jeweler Martin Katz Partner On ‘Elegant’ Electromechanical Timepiece

Luxury independent watchmaker, F.P. Journe, has unveiled the “élégante” ladies watch, which the company says is the “only electromechanical movement conceived and created for the luxury market.”

An electromechanical movement, like the name suggests, combines electrical and mechanical processes and procedures.

It is also the first ladies watch created by the luxury watchmaker, known for its innovation and inventiveness. In this case, the main feature of this timepiece is a mechanical motion detector visible on the dial at 5 o’clock. When the watch is not worn, it stops after about 30 minutes and goes into standby mode. The microprocessor continues to keep time while the mechanical parts—gears, rotors and hands—stop moving in order to save energy.

When the élégante is worn again, it automatically sets itself to the correct time, taking the shortest path—either clockwise or counter clockwise—again for energy conservation. With this system the electronic components are projected to last 10 years if worn and up to 18 years in standby mode.

All the mechanical elements were manufactured by F.P. Journe. The electronic components were developed by a Swiss engineer and were made in Switzerland, with a microprocessor specifically created for the watch.

The watch is the result of eight years of research, particularly the electromechanical caliber 1210 with its patented two-rotor motor, according to the watch brand.

For the aesthetic portion of the watch, Mr. Journe consulted with luxury jeweler, Martin Katz, known for his diamond jewelry designs. Katz said he has been a long time admirer and client of Mr. Journe.

“Our style aesthetic and quality of work are perfectly aligned, so to share in the design process of the women’s watch collection for a brand I truly respect was an exciting project for me,” Katz said.

The élégante comes with a luminescent dial with a subdial at 6 o’clock. The patented flat “tourtise” case design is available in three colors, each using a different material, and seven colored rubber straps. For example, the titanium version is available in all colors. The 18k red gold version comes with a chocolate strap; and the platinum PT 950 version with a dark blue strap. 

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