The announcement of Alain Delon’s passing reminds me of an extraordinary watch that I had the chance to see some time ago. It is a unique piece created in 2007 by François-Paul Journe in collaboration with Alain Delon. It is called Octa Guépard because it pays homage to the famous film by Luchino Visconti, but that was not its original purpose. At the time, its goal was to support the International Foundation for Research in Paraplegia (IRP) through its auction during the IRP Spring Ball. It raised the handsome sum of CHF 160,000, which may seem low for a unique FPJourne piece. But in other times, other customs, this sum was considerable for the year 2007 and the objective was achieved.
This Octa Guépard is distinguished by its 40mm diameter platinum case and by the magnificent work done on the white gold dial. The latter is decorated with 3 cheetahs engraved by Bernard Ditzoff who was inspired for the occasion by the sculptures of Rembrandt Bugatti. It is important to remember that Alain Delon was a collector of Bugatti bronzes. You will also note the presence of the actor’s signature on the dial just above the brand logo. A fun detail related to the Guépard: the character of Alain Delon’s brother in the film, played by Pierre Clémenti, is named Francesco Paolo. This leads me to think that this unique piece was surely not the result of chance. In any case, it reminds us that Alain Delon had a great passion for art. Watchmaking, engraving, sculpture, the influence of Alain Delon is undeniably felt in the motif and execution of the dial. The other features of the watch remain faithful to those of the Octa Power Reserve which served as a starting point.
François-Paul Journe’s commitment to medical research has never wavered, and this watch is further proof of this. François-Paul Journe similarly presented a unique example of the Centigraphe Souverain, which was auctioned for the benefit of the Brain and Spinal Cord Institute in 2016. The FPJourne manufacture also celebrated the 20th anniversary of its partnership with the ICM a few weeks ago.
