Parmigiani Fleurier presents the TONDA PF 36mm Automatic Stone Blue. This particular model extends the TONDA PF line, carrying forward the brand's commitment to understated luxury while catering to a contemporary audience. It’s not a radical departure, but rather a thoughtful evolution, embracing both traditional watchmaking values and a modern sensibility.
The history of
Parmigiani Fleurier is relatively short compared to some of the centuries-old giants in the industry, yet its impact has been significant. Founded in 1996 by Michel Parmigiani, the brand quickly established itself through a dedication to restoring historical timepieces and a commitment to in-house manufacturing. This foundation in both the past and the future of watchmaking is evident in every piece they produce, including this new TONDA PF. The brand's philosophy centers on discreet luxury – pieces that speak volumes through their quality and design, rather than through ostentatious displays.
Courtesy of Parmigiani Fleurier
The TONDA PF 36mm Automatic Stone Blue adheres perfectly to this philosophy. The watch presents a "Stone Blue" dial, a color choice that's both striking and subdued. It's not a bright, flashy blue, but rather a sophisticated shade that evokes a sense of calm and depth. The brand notes the inspiration from Le Corbusier's architectural palette, and this connection to architectural design is fitting. The color feels considered, intentional, and avoids any sense of trendiness. It’s a hue that could comfortably transition between casual and formal settings.
The texture of the dial is another key element. The "Grain d'Orge" hand-guilloché pattern is finely executed, creating a surface that interacts beautifully with light. It’s not simply a flat blue dial; instead, it has a dynamic quality, revealing subtle variations in shade and texture as the viewing angle changes. This guilloché work is a testament to Parmigiani Fleurier's commitment to traditional craftsmanship, a detail that elevates the watch beyond the ordinary. The applied indices, crafted from 18ct gold and rhodium-plated, complement the dial without overwhelming it. They are simple, elegant markers that prioritize legibility and refinement.
Courtesy of Parmigiani Fleurier
The hands, described as delta-shaped, are a characteristic Parmigiani Fleurier design element. They are well-proportioned to the dial and provide a clear indication of the time. The absence of a seconds hand contributes to the overall sense of minimalist design, focusing the wearer's attention on the essentials – hours and minutes. This deliberate omission reinforces the watch's character as a piece for those who appreciate understated luxury.
Encasing the dial and movement is a 36.1mm stainless steel case. This size represents a move towards more universally wearable dimensions, appealing to both men and women who prefer a more discreet watch presence. The case thickness of 8.6mm further enhances its wearability, allowing it to slip easily under a shirt cuff. The case features a knurled platinum bezel, a signature detail of the TONDA PF collection. This subtle textural contrast between the stainless steel and platinum adds a touch of visual interest and highlights the brand's attention to detail.
Courtesy of Parmigiani Fleurier
The case back is fitted with a sapphire crystal, offering a view of the in-house PF770 automatic movement. This movement is a significant aspect of the watch's appeal, showcasing Parmigiani Fleurier's horological expertise. It beats at a frequency of 4 Hz (28,800 vibrations per hour) and provides a respectable 60-hour power reserve. The movement's finishing is visible through the case back, demonstrating the brand's commitment to quality even in areas not immediately visible to the wearer. The movement is composed of 179 individual parts, with 29 jewels, and with a thickness of only 3.9, that shows the impressive engineering required in making a fine timepiece.
The movement's automatic winding mechanism ensures practicality for everyday wear. The watch is designed to be wound by the natural motion of the wearer's wrist, eliminating the need for manual winding unless the watch has been unworn for an extended period. The 60 hour power reserve is a strong showing for the power the movment can hold.
The TONDA PF 36mm Automatic Stone Blue is water-resistant to 100 meters. While not a dive watch, this level of water resistance provides peace of mind for everyday wear, protecting the watch from accidental splashes or brief immersion in water.
Courtesy of Parmigiani Fleurier
Completing the package is a stainless steel bracelet that integrates seamlessly with the case design. The bracelet's links are carefully crafted to ensure both comfort and visual appeal. The integration of the bracelet with the case contributes to the watch's overall cohesive aesthetic, creating a unified and elegant appearance on the wrist.
The overall design language of the TONDA PF 36mm Automatic Stone Blue is one of "relaxed sophistication." It avoids any overt displays of luxury, instead opting for a quiet confidence that comes from meticulous craftsmanship and thoughtful design choices. The watch is versatile, suitable for a range of occasions, and reflects a modern understanding of luxury – one that values subtlety and quality over ostentation. It is an expression for pure watchmaking to express itself.
The watch is a clear representation of Parmigiani Fleurier's core values. It embodies the brand's commitment to in-house manufacturing, traditional craftsmanship, and a design philosophy that prioritizes discreet luxury. It's a watch that appeals to those who appreciate the finer details, who understand the value of a meticulously crafted timepiece, and who seek a watch that reflects their own sense of refined style.
Courtesy of Parmigiani Fleurier
Parmigiani Fleurier's founder, Michel Parmigiani, describes the "Stone Blue" color as "an invitation to escape, suspended between sky and horizon, where light and purity meet." This poetic description captures the essence of the watch's aesthetic. It's a piece that evokes a sense of serenity and sophistication, a subtle statement of refined taste.
The Parmigiani Fleurier TONDA PF 36mm Automatic Stone Blue, with the reference number PFC804-1020005-100182, is priced at CHF 21,000. This price point positions it within the realm of high-end luxury watches, reflecting the quality of its materials, the complexity of its movement, and the prestige of the Parmigiani Fleurier brand. Availability would typically be through authorized Parmigiani Fleurier retailers and boutiques.
Case: Stainless steel. Diameter: Ø 36.1 mm. Thickness: 8.6 mm. ARunic anti-reflective sapphire crystal. Sapphire case back. Water resistance: 100 meters. Knurled platinum bezel.
Movement: Caliber PF770-HM. Automatic winding. Total dimensions: 11 ''' – Ø 25.6 mm. Thickness: 3.9 mm. Frequency: 4 Hz – 28,800 A/h. Power Reserve: 60 hours. 179 components. 29 jewels.
Dial: Stone Blue color. "Grain d'Orge hand-guilloché" finishing. 18ct gold rhodium-plated applique indices. Delta-shaped hour and minute hands.
Strap: Stainless steel bracelet.
Price: CHF 21,000
Reference Number: PFC804-1020005-100182
Notes: The "Stone Blue" dial color is inspired by Le Corbusier’s architectural palette. The watch is designed to be gender-neutral and appeal to a wider audience with its 36mm case size.