SIHH 2015: Tonda 1950, Elegance on a gold bracelet

SIHH 2015: Tonda 1950, Elegance on a gold bracelet

The Tonda 1950, Parmigiani Fleurier's first ultra-thin timepiece, is the embodiment of the brand's aesthetic foundations, pared down to nothing but its signature stylistic codes. A slim, streamlined profile, the two emblematic lugs and the instantly recognisable harmony of proportions are dedicated to the essential definition of time: hours, minutes, small seconds.

Since its launch in 2011, the Tonda 1950 has been paired with a selection of Hermès leather straps which showcase the elegant simplicity of its lines. In 2015, Parmigiani Fleurier will be combining the Tonda 1950 with a rose gold bracelet for the very first time, specially designed with proportions which reflect the model's pure, slim lines without distracting from it. 

The first links in this bracelet are designed to bring it in to these narrow dimensions. Starting from the generous space between the lugs, the tightly-nestled links become narrower in three successive increments on either side of the case middle until the bracelet reaches its final proportions, extending delicately and elegantly in straight links to the clasp. This slim, lightweight bracelet exudes modernity, with its understated air lending it a subtle sophistication. This ensures it fits perfectly with the simple elegance of the Tonda 1950, which gains a new brilliance from its gold showcase. The dial is available in a graphite version for men and Tahitian white mother-of-pearl with a stone-set case for women.

Parmigiani Fleurier's ultra-thin calibre

The ultra-thin PF 701 calibre owes its slim dimensions to an eccentric platinum micro-oscillating weight, housed within the confines of the movement. Measuring just 2.6 mm thick, this feat of watchmaking prowess will doubtless be used in a myriad of future settings. In fact, the case for the Tonda 1950 was designed to be 7.8 mm thick and although this measurement makes it worthy of inclusion in the range of ultra-thin models, it is deliberately not as thin as it could have been. This will allow the Tonda 1950 family to be enhanced in the future with additional complications and modules, without having to change the thickness of its case. 

The movement of the Tonda 1950 offers the finest haute horlogerie finishes you would expect from Parmigiani Fleurier, which very few brands would apply to such a mechanism. The nickel silver main plate is sand-blasted, circular-grained and then rhodium-plated. The bridges are sandblasted, drawn out or "Côte de Genève" decorated, then bevelled by hand and, finally, rhodium-plated. Also note the attractive finish of each wheel, bevelled, sunk, circular-grained on both faces, then gilded before cutting. 

The high standard of finish on each component is a result of the philosophy shared by the various centres of competence that make up the Parmigiani Fleurier Manufacture. Every aspect of Tonda 1950's movement and exterior is created in-house with painstaking care, designed to ensure each calibre showcases the very best of the Manufacture's expertise.