The Reference T (for "Tourbillon") is the first production watch to feature a tourbillon with remontoire d'égalité – an all but forgotten constant force mechanism that acts as a transmission system for the transfer of power between the mainspring and escapement; and which was originally invented (in watches) by John Harrison, for his marine chronometers. The remontoire would soon go on to be found in a handful of other WIS-approved wristwatches like the A. Lange & Söhne Zeitwerk, though, unlike Lange, Journe would never claim his tourbillon featured a constant force escapement. The remontoire is not a constant force escapement per se (for that, visit this detailed look at this Girard-Perregaux), but it does ensure that the energy reaching the escapement stays the same through the entire power reserve of the movement. Chronometry, all the way back to the early 1980s, has been at the core of what F.P. Journe does. But, he also wants his creations to have emotion and beauty, thus his constant pursuit of the tourbillon.

The reference T was produced until the end of 2003. The cases are predominantly made of platinum, but they may also be seen in rose gold. The movements are brass and dials can be found in yellow, pink, and white gold. All cases are 38mm, except for those of the limited edition ruthenium pieces that we will discuss below.