2026.4.24
Pequinier Manufacture’s “Attitude Impériale”: A Tribute to the Excellence of French Watchmaking, Dedicated to His Majesty the Emperor of Japan
In commemoration of the official visit to Japan by the President of the French Republic,
Manufacture Pékinié is deeply honored to have been able to present the one-of-a-kind “Attitude Impériale.”
This exceptional timepiece, presented by France to His Majesty the Emperor of Japan, embodies the pinnacle of French watchmaking craftsmanship and celebrates the historic friendship between the two nations.
( Reprinted from the website of Calibre Vantean Co., Ltd., the exclusive distributor of Pekinie, published on April 3, 2026)

A Symbol of a One-of-a-Kind Republic

On the occasion of this rare diplomatic event, Manufacture Pékinier introduced a symbolic change.The traditional fleur-de-lis—which typically adorns Manufacture Pékinié watches (on the movement, crown, and clasp)—has been replaced with the initials of the French Republic, “RF” (République Française). This official emblem underscores the institutional and unique nature of this state gift.
“ This watch is as French as a watch can be. It is a tribute to centuries of craftsmanship ,” the Manufacture emphasizes. “ Japan is our largest export market for watches, and presenting this timepiece to His Majesty is the ultimate symbol of the special bond between our two nations. ”
Diplomatic Allegory (
)
: The Oak Tree and the Cherry Blossom



The dial at the heart of this unique watch was hand-painted in miniature by artist Philippe Jacquin-Lavoie and depicts two intertwined branches.
One is an oak tree, symbolizing France's strength, and the other is a cherry blossom, symbolizing Japan's elegance.
This scene, where East and West meet at the center of the dial, symbolizes the ever-evolving friendship between Japan and France.
French Luxury Watchmaking

Faithfully upholding its heritage as a French luxury watch manufacturer, Pékinié has equipped this model with its in-house “Calibre Initial®” movement.
Developed in 2021, this self-winding movement boasts a 65-hour power reserve. Reflecting the brand’s commitment to local sourcing, all components are produced within an 80-kilometer radius of Mortaux, with 72% of them made in France.
Furthermore, this watch has earned the prestigious chronometer certification from the Besançon Observatory, signifying the world’s highest standard of timekeeping accuracy.
A Fusion of French Talent

For this special model commissioned by the President, Pekinié has brought together the skills of the finest artisans from the Franche-Comté region, a center of watchmaking listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
At the “La Pratique” workshop in Mortau, blue-steel hands—the pinnacle of exceptional craftsmanship—were crafted. Additionally, Manufacture Jean Rousseau, based in Besançon, hand-stitched a special alligator strap exclusively for this watch. Finally, the French company Étui, also based in Besançon, crafted a bespoke presentation box exclusively for the “Attitude Impériale.”Featuring white-lacquered wood and pale gray suede accented with orange, this case highlights the precious nature of the gift. Inside, an engraving reading “Presented by Mr. Emmanuel Macron, President of the French Republic” completes this collection of items.

The strap was commissioned from “Jean Rousseau,” which, like Pekinié, has been certified as an “Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant” (Intangible Cultural Heritage Enterprise).
Pekinié: Excellence in Sustainable Watchmaking

Pequinier, a French luxury watch manufacturer certified as an “Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant (EPV: Living Heritage Company),” designs and manufactures its own watches and movements at its workshop in Mortais, in the heart of the Jura Mountains.
Founded in 1973 by Émile Pécinié, our Maison has consistently broken with convention and pursued innovation. Since becoming a Manufacture in 2010, we have created exceptional movements, including the mechanical “Calibre Royal®.”
● Calibre Royal® Type 3 (automatic, manual-winding, and tourbillon) and Calibre Initial®

In 2021, Pekinié joined “Maison & Manufacture,” a company founded by Hugues Suparis, a former businessman and entrepreneur dedicated to supporting and advancing French craftsmanship.
In 2024, the brand unveiled the “Calibre Royal® Tourbillon,” thereby solidifying its position as an elite watchmaker.
Attitude Impérial
Attitude Impérial

Specifications
|
Case
Diameter: 39 mm, 316L stainless steel Crown with embossed “RF” logo Dial Hand-painted oak and cherry blossom design by artist Philippe Jacquin-Lavo. Rounded, stamped blue-steel hands. Large date display at the 3 o’clock position (instant-change, no restricted operation periods) Water resistance 5 atm case back Sapphire crystal revealing the movement (See-through back) |
Movement
Calibre Initial® bidirectional automatic winding Frequency 4 Hz (28,800 vibrations per hour) 65-hour power reserve 21 jewels; hack function (second hand stop function) Polished stainless steel clasp engravedwith the “RF” logo |
French Luxury and Unique Craftsmanship
Pequinier was founded in 1973 in the town of Mortau in eastern France. Born from founder Émile Pequinier’s passion to “create watches with soul,” it is France’s only watch manufacture.Pequinier’s watches continue to captivate watch enthusiasts around the world with their beautiful designs and unique mechanical movements.
A Gift to His Majesty the Emperor
During French President Macron’s visit to Japan from March 31 to April 2, 2026, he presented His Majesty the Emperor with Pequinier’s “ Attitude Impériale.”The quality and elegance recognized even by the Élysée Palace (the French Presidential Palace) are the very essence of Pécinié.
At TS Horiuchi, we have been carrying Pécinié watches for over 10 years. The timepieces created by Pécinié, which blend beauty and craftsmanship, are masterpieces we can confidently recommend to all watch enthusiasts.
Designs that Embody French Elegance
Pecinié watches are characterized by designs that shine with quintessential French elegance and a unique sense of style. The case, dial, and hands—every element—harmonize to exude a refined beauty.
The Exclusive Mechanical Movement: “Calibre Royal”
Pecinié takes pride in its “Calibre Royal,” a mechanical movement developed entirely in-house.Its exceptional craftsmanship and precision are highly regarded by watchmakers around the world.
The Allure of Pekinié That Captivates Watch Enthusiasts
Pekinié watches continue to captivate watch enthusiasts with their beautiful designs and exclusive mechanical movements.
Experience the Essence of French Luxury
Discover the technology behind the exclusive “Calibre Royale” mechanical movement
Acquire a high-quality watch that will be a cherished companion for years to come
Add a Pékinié watch to your collection
At TS Horiuchi, we carry a selection of Pékinié watches. We invite you to explore the allure of Pékinié watches on our website or in-store.
TS Horiuchi's Recommended Pekinie
● “160th Anniversary of Japan-France Relations Model: Leuroyale 1 FONETION · Tricolor · Hands-On Blue”
● “ Ryu Royal 4 FONETION Royal Saphir Phantom (PHANTOM) Limited Edition 』
● “ Quatre Fonction Royal Origin 4 FONETION 9010433/1』
● " Dou Function・ Luroyale 2 FONCTION Green Dial』
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