François-Paul Journe and H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco have unveiled a timepiece of extraordinary collectible significance at the Yacht Club de Monaco: the Chronographe Fondation Prince Albert II de Monaco. Having previously explored complex chronograph complications such as the Rattrapante, the FlyBack, and the renowned Centigraphe, this creation marks the first time the independent master watchmaker has designed a classic chronograph architecture. Created as a unique piece, it will be auctioned by Phillips on November 25, 2026, in Singapore, with all proceeds directly benefiting the Sovereign Prince’s environmental foundation.
Exclusive Design: Two-Tone Case and Burgundy Lacquered Dial
The 42 mm diameter case features a two-tone construction combining platinum with 18K 6N rose gold for the caseband, crown, and pushers. However, the indisputable focal point of the design is its deep burgundy lacquered dial.
The dial features numerals inspired by Chinese oracle bone script—the earliest known form of Chinese writing—paired with grey sapphire subdials featuring titanium surrounds and a tachymeter scale executed in whitened silver. The large date display at 6 o’clock is framed in sandblasted white gold.
🎯 Fine Watchmaking Milestone
The First Classic Chronograph by F.P.Journe
Unlike his previous high-speed measuring chronographs, this model adopts a classic layout: central chronograph hand, 30-minute counter at 3 o’clock, small seconds at 9 o’clock, and a prominent large date display at 6 o’clock. The caseback is engraved with “Fondation Albert II – 2026”.
Rose Gold Mechanics: In-House Calibre 1518.3
In keeping with the manufacture’s signature tradition, the manual-winding mechanical movement—Calibre 1518.3—is constructed entirely from 18K rose gold. Measuring a slender 5.90 mm in height, it provides a power reserve of 80 hours (±2h) operating at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour (3 Hz). Hand-finished details include partial circular graining on the mainplate, circular Côtes de Genève on the bridges, and polished screws with chamfered slots.
Technical Specifications: F.P.Journe Chronographe Unique Piece
| Specification | Technical Detail |
|---|---|
| Model / Piece | Chronographe Fondation Prince Albert II de Monaco (Unique Piece) |
| Case / Dimensions | Platinum with 18K 6N Rose Gold caseband, crown, and pushers: 42 mm (diameter) × 10.40 mm (thickness) |
| Dial | Burgundy lacquer, Chinese oracle bone script numerals, grey sapphire counters with titanium surrounds |
| Movement | In-house manual-winding Calibre 1518.3 in 18K Rose Gold (246 components, 26 jewels) |
| Frequency / Power Reserve | 21,600 vph (3 Hz) / 80 hours power reserve (±2h) |
| Functions | Hours, minutes, small seconds (9h), 30-minute counter (3h), tachymeter scale, and large date (6h) |
| Strap / Clasp | Brown alligator leather with an 18K 6N rose gold folding clasp |
| Charity Auction | Phillips (November 25, 2026, Singapore) benefiting the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation |
