Toric Chronomètre a Tribute to Parmigiani Fleurier’s Founding Father
Among the array of eye-catching timepieces launched at the 2017 SIHH watch fair earlier this year was a striking creation by Swiss manufacturer Parmigiani Fleurier.
Paying homage to the original design of the brand’s founder Michel Parmigiani that was first launched in 1996, the new Parmigiani Fleurier Toric Chronomètre is a modern interpretation of that classic piece.
At 40.8mm wide and 9.5mm thick, the watch is a touch larger than its predecessor, but the elegant case has been redesigned to sit more snugly on the wrist. The curved contours add dynamism into the design as well as making it more ergonomic. Meanwhile the crown has also been turned into a more imposing feature of the overall design.
The case comes in either 18-karat white or red gold and both the versions are available with either black or white dial colours. The caliber’s 220 components, including 32 jewels, have all been painstakingly decorated and the watch has a power reserve of 55 hours.
The dials are available in black opaline or a white grained version that bear an understated, textured finish created by brushing its surface with a mixture of salt and silver powder. The long luminous-coated Javelin hands make this model distinctive from other Parmigiani Fleurier watches and bring the dial to life without disturbing the understated aesthetics of the watch.
The Arabic hour numerals are in an elegant, vintage-inspired font that is perfectly legible. The date appears in a curved aperture at 6 o’clock and the contrasting colours between the date disc and the dial adds character to the watch.
The movement of the Toric Chronomètre is visible through the sapphire crystal exhibition caseback, while other notable features include a black alligator strap made by Hermès and a matching gold ardillon buckle.
The rose gold and white gold models are both priced at $18,500.