F.P. Journe

It was during the 1980s when F. P. Journe first envisioned the Chronomètre Optimum as a timepiece that would feature the design of "three hands, two mainsprings, and a remontoir d'égalité." But it wasn't until 2001 that the original concept for the watch was revised, with another 10 years for the timepiece to finally be manufactured and introduced in 2012.

The design of the Chronomètre Optimum drew inspiration from F.P. Journe’s Chronomètre Souverain and the Tourbillion. Like the Souverain model, the Optimum also employs a twin barrel configuration that operates simultaneously. Borrowing from the Tourbillon, the Optimum incorporates the remontoir at the 11 o’clock position of the dial which ensures one-second intervals while synchronizing with the dead-beat seconds on the case back. This system serves the purpose of maintaining a consistent force to the escapement. It acts as both a transmission mechanism and a balancing system, facilitating the smooth transfer of power between the mainspring and the escapement. When fully wounded, a total of 70 hours of power reserve could be generated.

The present watch is an optimized chronometer as its name and deemed the ultimate chronometer by Journe himself. It is the most accurate mechanical watch of the brand and highly collectible among watch enthusiasts.