In a world that celebrates the loud and the flashy, F.P. Journe’s Chronomètre Furtif offers a quietly confident counterpoint. The latest addition to the line Sport Collection, the Chronomètre Furtif brings together exceptional materials, groundbreaking engineering, and artisanal finishing in a piece that, quite literally, keeps its secrets close.
A Case Carved from the Future
While the one-off Chronomètre Furtif Bleu wowed collectors at Only Watch 2024 with its Tantalum build, the new production Chronomètre Furtif takes things a step further.
Its 42mm case and bracelet are constructed from Tungsten Carbide, a material more often found in aerospace and industrial applications than in fine watchmaking. Almost as dense as gold, shock-resistant, corrosion-proof, and incredibly hard (approx. 1350 Vickers), it offers both extreme durability and a deep, satin-grey finish that speaks of quiet strength.
This formidable exterior was brought to life by Les Boîtiers de Genève, a specialist case-making atelier owned by F.P. Journe. Through the use of next-generation machining tools and relentless precision, the team succeeded in crafting a sand-blasted and polished case and a flat three-row bracelet all from Tungsten Carbide and accentuated with Tantalum elements.
A Dial Forged in Fire
To match the technical prowess of the case, the Chronomètre Furtif features a mirror-polished anthracite Grand Feu enamel dial in white gold—crafted by Les Cadraniers de Genève, F.P.Journe’s in-house dial artisans. Layer by layer, powder enamel is fired in a kiln over 800°C, creating a dial that shimmers and glows, yet remains elegantly subdued.
Its laser-engraved numerals and discreet minute track can only be seen when the dial is tilted at certain angles, a detail meant for the wearer alone. The slim, teardrop hands, nearly the same colour as the dial, appear to melt into the enamel, while a fine white seconds hand adds a crisp visual contrast.
Movement, Redefined
Inside beats the new Calibre 1522, a hand-wound movement in 18K rose gold. Designed entirely in-house, it prioritises clarity and function: hours, minutes, and a central seconds hand all powered by an in-line geartrain—a first for the brand.
With 197 components, a dual-barrel system offering a 56-hour power reserve, and a moon phase display at 6 o’clock, the movement balances traditional watchmaking with technical refinement. Its regulating organ oscillates at 3 Hz, driven by a micro-flamed flat Anachron balance spring.
The Chronomètre Furtif is made for those who understand the value of understatement, for whom time is a private affair.
The F.P. Journe Chronomètre Furtif has a retail price of approximately USD 90,000 before taxes.
