Private Sale
Item
F.P. Journe Octa Reserve De Marche 02A 38mm Brass Movement Platinum Case
Have questions about Private Sale Items? Visit our FAQs.
Introduction
The story of F.P. Journe is one of the most remarkable success stories in modern independent watchmaking. Founded in 1999 by master watchmaker François-Paul Journe, the brand was built upon decades of experience restoring and creating highly complicated timepieces. Journe’s guiding philosophy, embodied in the Latin phrase “Invenit et Fecit” (“Invented and Made”), reflects his commitment to designing and manufacturing his own movements rather than relying on existing calibers. From the outset, his watches stood apart for their technical ingenuity, distinctive aesthetics, and uncompromising craftsmanship.
Among the most important and collectible watches produced by the young manufacture are the so-called “brass movement” models made between 1999 and 2003. During this formative period, F.P. Journe utilized movements crafted from rhodium-plated brass before transitioning to the brand’s now-famous solid 18-karat rose gold movements. These early brass caliber watches represent the foundation of the company and are highly sought after by collectors due to their rarity and historical significance.
The Chronomètre à Résonance and Tourbillon Souverain often receive much of the attention, but the early Réserve de Marche models are equally significant. The Réserve de Marche reference 02A, powered by the brass caliber 1300, exemplifies Journe’s approach to practical haute horlogerie. Featuring an asymmetrical dial layout with a prominent power reserve indicator, the watch combined technical sophistication with everyday usability. The movement showcased meticulous hand-finishing and innovative engineering while establishing many of the visual codes that would define the brand for decades.
Today, brass movement F.P. Journe watches are regarded as the purest expression of the manufacture’s earliest years. The Réserve de Marche 02A, in particular, represents a pivotal chapter in the brand’s history—a watch created during the transition from independent watchmaker to legendary manufacture, making it one of the most desirable early Journe references among collectors worldwide.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
M 9
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
THE DIAL
The watch features a solid gold dial with a grey textured surface, and an offset time display accented with a guilloched center. What was considered a revolutionary design at the time has now become a hallmark of the FP Journe brand.
THE MOVEMENT
The 02A features a cal 1300 movement constructed of brass and a gold rotor. Since the manufacture's decision to switch construction of moments fully to gold, the early brass ones have become highly coveted trophies to collectors.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT
This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
Condition
Watch is in near mint overall condition. There is only minor surface wear evident on the case. The original grey dial is near-mint, with uniform tone. Sundial shows little to no signs of age related degradation. The 3 and 8 on the second digit of the date wheel show very minor signs of damage in the upper left corner. Closeup images are visible in the image carousel. Watch comes on an FP Journe signed strap with its original platinum tang buckle.
Please Note: Due to CITES considerations, if the watch is to be shipped outside of the USA, the exotic skin strap will have to be removed.
Our Perspective
This 38mm Octa RDM represents the purest expression of form that makes the early brass movement era Journes so collectible and desired.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
