This is an example of the Octa Divine* with a 38mm platinum case that the independent brand produced for a relatively short period of time. It is one of the few lines that features a centrally oriented iteration of Journes signature aesthetic, with date and moonphase complications. It is powered by the calibre 1300-2, forged from rose gold.

Two years after Franois-Paul Journe debuted his first self-winding calibre in 2001, he put it in the Octa Divine, one of the first to execute a centrally arranged dial layout. Previous lines such as the Tourbillon, Resonance, and even others within the Octa range had championed an off-centre aesthetic that the brand had come to be known for. The Octa Divine, alongside the, represented Journeswillingness to experiment early in his story.

Initially introduced in 36mm and 38mm case sizes, 40mm and 42mm variants were added in 2016. However, as was the case with most of the brands lines, the 38mm size of the Octa Divine, which was produced for a relatively short period, remains the most coveted by enthusiasts. It is a size that the brand no longer produces for any of its watches.

In this example, the 38mm case is forged from platinum. It is three-part in its construction, with a rounded bezel meeting a flat midcase and a rounded edge to the display caseback. The lugs are thin, short, and curve down to meet the form of the wrist. The flat crown features the signature rope pattern.

Like the Souverain, the Octa Divine wears a chapter of embossed Arabic numerals in the brands signature font. Outside, it runs a chemin de fer track of minutes. Both of these, as well as the off-centre subsidiary seconds register, are part of a white dial screwed on to a greyish base that forms the centre of the watch face. The Divine features the moonphase display at 7 oclock, while the 120-hour reserve is laid out on an arc at 9 o'clock. At 11 oclock is the aperture for the twin-disc date display. The feuille-style hands are all heat-hued.

In 2004, Journe switched from brass to making movements from 18k gold. Visible here through the display caseback is the calibre 1300-2, a variation of the first self-winding calibre Journe created to be able to house a host of complications. In this example, the movement is crafted from 18k rose gold. The baseplate features ctes circulaire, while the bridges and plates are decorated with Ctes de Genve. It also has engravings detailing its Genevan origin, the movement's chronometer rating, and its metal composition. It features a self-compensating free-sprung balance, straight-line lever escapement, and is adjusted in five positions. Everything is finished to the standard that the manufacturer is known for.

Topping it is the massive, off-centre 22k rose gold rotor with grain dorge circulaire and cartouches bearing the brand name, motto, and logo. The display caseback is attached by six holt head screws, in between which are etched details such as the precious metal the case is crafted from, the brand mark, the motto, and the serial number.

The watch comes with both a black and brown alligator strap, with a signed platinum pin buckle. The set features the presentation box, Certificate of Authenticity, and service invoice

It would make for the perfect addition to a collection of other 38mm watches from the brand or a first taste of a classically dimensioned F. P. Journe for an enthusiast who never had the chance to get one while they were still being made.

Closer look

Condition

This F. P. Journe Octa Divine is in good overall condition. Light superficial marks are found throughout the case and lugs, more specifically on the bezel at the seven o'clock position and a small ding on the upper right lug, towards the end on the bevelled edge. The dial, hands, and movement show light signs of wear consistent with the age of the watch. The hallmarks and engravings on the caseback show slight rounding, indicating a previous polish, though they remain well defined and legible.

Warranty

The watch comes with a two-year warranty from A Collected Man, alongside a lifetime guarantee of authenticity.