In His Own Words: François-Paul Journe on the Clock That Started It All
François-Paul Journe reflects on the significance of the Breguet Sympathique no. 1, a clock that sold for CHF5.51 million in May 2025, marking a pivotal moment in his career and the high point of the auction season. This clock, inspired by Abraham-Louis Breguet’s original design, represents not only Journe's ambition as a watchmaker but also highlights his journey from a young craftsman in Paris to a renowned figure in horology. The Sympathique no. 1 will be a key feature in the upcoming F.P. Journe museum, symbolizing a deep connection to Breguet’s legacy and Journe’s own contributions to the craft. The creation of the Sympathique clocks began in the 1980s, with Journe’s early ambitions leading him to produce a series of unique pieces for John Asprey. His designs included innovative features such as a winding mechanism that allows for eight days of operation, surpassing the original Breguet models. Despite facing challenges in building a company, including a tumultuous partnership, Journe ultimately established Techniques Horlogères Appliquées (THA) to commercialize his creations. The clock's high auction price reflects its artistic beauty, historical significance, and Journe's personal milestones, marking an important chapter in the evolution of watchmaking.
