Phillips Partners with F.P. Journe for a Noble Cause: Auctioning A Unique Élégante Timepiece In Support Of Breast Cancer Research
In a noble fusion of haute horlogerie and philanthropy, Phillips in partnership with F.P. Journe is set to auction a singularly remarkable timepiece, the élégante 48 mm Titalyt®, with the entirety of the final sale proceeds directed to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. This commendable event, slated for March 2nd in Miami, is an invitation-only affair, although global participation is welcomed through online bidding for this exceptional watch, a symbol of hope and support for a pivotal cause.
F.P. Journe introduced the élégante collection in 2014, marking a significant milestone in watchmaking. The collection features a groundbreaking 21st-century electromechanical movement, a product of eight years of meticulous development. The exclusive caliber 1210, equipped with a motion detector, offers unparalleled autonomy — eight to ten years of active wear and up to eighteen years in standby mode.
The timepiece up for auction boasts the élégante’s signature Flat Tortue® case, a design that harks back to the elegance of early 20th-century timepieces, yet houses a marvel of modern engineering. The watch’s ability to enter a “hibernation” mode after 35 minutes of inactivity, conserving energy until motion is once again detected, is a highlight of its technical prowess. Upon awakening, the watch automatically resets to the correct time, with the hands moving in the most efficient direction, showcasing the blend of aesthetic beauty and technical efficiency that defines F.P. Journe’s work.
This one-of-a-kind élégante stands out not only for its technical achievements but also for its aesthetic appeal. The dial, luminescent in white with black Arabic numerals, is accented with screwed steel elements and a distinctive numeral “1” in pink. This design choice is a nod to the watch’s unique status and the noble cause it supports, further accentuated by a pink strap that symbolizes the global fight against breast cancer.
François-Paul Journe, the visionary behind F.P. Journe, has dedicated over four decades to the art of watchmaking. His deep historical knowledge and unparalleled expertise have continuously propelled the brand to confront and surmount the horological challenges of the modern era. The élégante collection, now celebrating its 10th anniversary, embodies Journe’s commitment to blending timeless design with cutting-edge technology.
The auction of the élégante 48 mm Titalyt® by Phillips in collaboration with F.P. Journe is more than a celebration of horological excellence; it is a pledge of support to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, an organization at the forefront of the global battle against breast cancer. This event not only underscores the potential for luxury watchmaking to contribute to significant social causes but also offers collectors and philanthropists the opportunity to own a piece of horological history while supporting an impactful cause.