Review: Parmigiani Fleurier Toric Petite Seconde

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The Parmigiani Toric collection, a revered name in the world of haute horlogerie, has made a triumphant return, and it is nothing short of extraordinary. Known for its meticulous craftsmanship, the Toric series represents a harmonious blend of timeless design and modern sophistication. Originally introduced in 1996 as Michel Parmigiani‘s first wristwatch creation, the Toric has since become a symbol of elegance, redefining masculine watch design. In this review, we’ll delve into the nuances of the Parmigiani Toric Petite Seconde to showcase why this piece stands at the pinnacle of watchmaking.

Parmigiani Fleurier is renowned for its relentless pursuit of horological excellence, combining technical innovation with refined aesthetics. The Toric collection is a testament to this legacy, not simply replicating its initial design but evolving into something far more sophisticated. The 2024 revival of the Toric collection has introduced new models like the Petite Seconde and Chronograph Rattrapante, maintaining the essence of Parmigiani’s craftsmanship while bringing fresh elements of modernity into the fold.

Guido Terreni, CEO of Parmigiani Fleurier, encapsulates the vision behind the collection, stating, “Our aim was to break free from traditional constraints, creating a watch that embodies a nuanced, serene, and versatile elegance meticulously crafted to resonate with the refined essence of today’s discerning individual“. This ethos is present not just in Toric’s aesthetic appeal but also in its exceptional functionality and attention to detail.

The Case: A Masterclass in Proportion

The case of the Parmigiani Toric stands as a testament to the brand’s commitment to fluidity and balance. Available in both rose gold and platinum, the case measures a modest 40.6mm in diameter with a thickness of 8.8mm. While these dimensions may suggest simplicity, a closer inspection reveals the intricate artistry behind the watch’s architecture.

A signature element of the Toric series is the knurled bezel, which draws inspiration from the geometry of the torus and Doric columns, a nod to ancient Greco-Roman architecture. This unique design feature sets the Toric apart from other luxury watches, offering a texture that is both tactile and visually appealing. What’s remarkable is how the knurled bezel has been modernized for 2024, maintaining its iconic status while blending seamlessly into a more contemporary form.

The purity of the case’s lines, free from aggressive angles or unnecessary protrusions, speaks to Parmigiani Fleurier‘s minimalist approach with this iteration of the Toric. Whether viewed from the side or front, the case exudes a gentle softness, reinforcing the concept of quiet elegance. Crafted exclusively in precious metals, gold and platinum, the case ensures that this watch is not just a functional timepiece but also a true object of art.

The Dial: Grained Perfection

One of the most distinguishing features of the Toric is its dial, which is meticulously hand-grained using a technique steeped in horological heritage. Michel Parmigiani has employed an ancient method that utilizes a mixture of cream of tartar, sea salt, and silver to create a unique, matte texture. This labour-intensive process results in a dial surface that is soft and smooth, diffusing light in an incredibly refined manner.

In this latest collection, the dials are made from 18ct rose gold, further adding to their luxury appeal. The indexes and hands, crafted from 18ct gold and rhodium-plated, complement the dial’s understated grandeur. The graining technique, which Parmigiani revived from historical timepieces such as marine chronometers, offers a distinctive vintage aesthetic while remaining firmly rooted in contemporary design.

One notable detail is the chevé shape of the dial, which mimics the slight curvature of vintage watch glasses. The edges of the dial subtly slope downward to meet the inner bezel, creating a smooth transition that enhances the overall harmony of the watch. This unique curvature, reminiscent of watchmaking from the 1960s, gives the dial a sense of depth and dimensionality that is seldom seen in modern watches.

The Movement: A Symphony of Precision

At the heart of the Parmigiani Toric beats an entirely new movement, designed to uphold the highest standards of haute horlogerie. The Petite Seconde model houses the PF780, a manual-wound manufacture movement with an impressive power reserve of 60 hours. With a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz), the movement ensures precise timekeeping, while its 157 components and 27 jewels speak to the complexity and craftsmanship involved.

The movement architecture is just as visually stunning as the watch itself. Three large 18ct rose gold surfaces serve as bridges, arranged in a geometric pattern that is both minimalist and captivating. The two barrels and regulating organ are visible, offering the wearer a glimpse into the inner workings of the timepiece, and the decoration of the movement features the iconic Côtes de Fleurier pattern, another of Parmigiani’s original creations. This intricate braided pattern, developed as an alternative to the more common Côtes de Genève, is an ode to the golden ratio, which Parmigiani integrates into all aspects of the watch’s design.

The winding experience itself is meant to be savoured, emphasizing the tactile pleasure of interacting with the watch. Parmigiani Fleurier has deliberately chosen a manual winding mechanism to create a deeper connection between the timepiece and its owner, reinforcing the watch’s status as a symbol of refined elegance and technical prowess.

Conclusion

The Parmigiani Toric collection is not just a watch – it is a statement of horological artistry, technical mastery, and timeless elegance. Every aspect, from the meticulously crafted case to the hand-grained dial and the intricate movement, speaks to the brand’s commitment to excellence. Parmigiani Fleurier has managed to breathe new life into the Toric, preserving its historical roots while embracing a modern sensibility that resonates with today’s discerning watch enthusiasts.

The Toric is more than a timekeeper – it is a celebration of form, function, and beauty. With its revival, Parmigiani Fleurier continues to push the boundaries of luxury watchmaking, offering a piece that transcends trends and remains a lasting testament to the art of haute horlogerie. Whether you are drawn to its technical precision or its refined design, the Toric is a watch that will undoubtedly stand the test of time.

Parmigiani Fleurier Toric Petite Seconde Technical Specifications

References

• Rose Gold – PFC940-2010001-300181
• Platinum – PFC940-2010004-300181

Functions

• Hours, minutes, small seconds

Movement

• Calibre PF780 – MANUAL WINDING MANUFACTURE
• MOVEMENT IN 18CT ROSE GOLD WITH SMALL SECONDS
• Power reserve: 60 hours
• Frequency: 28,800 Vph (4 Hz)
• Jewels: 27
• No. of components: 157
• Overall diameter total: 28.4 mm
• Thickness: 3.15 mm
• Decoration: Côtes de Fleurier, hand-bevelled steel bridges

Case

• Polished 18ct rose gold / platinum 950 with knurled bezel
• Diameter: 40.6 mm
• Thickness: 8.8 mm
• Crown: Ø 6 mm
• Glass: ARunic anti-reflective sapphire
• Case back: ARunic anti-reflective sapphire
• Engraving on case back: serial number – “PARMIGIANI FLEURIER”
• Water resistance: 30 m

Dial

• Material: 18ct white gold
• Colour: Sand Gold / Grey Celadon
• Finishing: hand-grained
• Indexes: hand-applied 18ct rose gold / 18ct gold rhodium-plated appliques
• Hands
• Hours and minutes: 18ct rose gold / 18ct gold rhodium-plated
• Small seconds: steel rose gold-plated / steel rhodium-plated

Strap

• Grey celadon hand-stitched nubuck alligator leather with 18ct rose gold pin buckle
• Sand Gold hand-stitched nubuck alligator leather with platinum 950 pin buckle