The Parmigiani Tonda PF Xiali Chinese Complete Calendar is a masterpiece of horological art that uniquely marries intricate mechanics with rich cultural heritage. Crafted by Parmigiani Fleurier, this exceptional timepiece serves as a tribute to the ancient Chinese Xiali calendar, offering a sophisticated blend of tradition and contemporary luxury.
Design & Material
The Tonda PF Xiali distinguishes itself with a case available in both 18ct rose gold and stainless steel, perfectly polished and satin-finished for a touch of elegance. The case diameter measures 42 mm with a thickness of 12.2 mm, providing a substantial yet refined presence on the wrist.
The bezel in rose gold models is knurled and made entirely of 18ct rose gold while the stainless steel variants feature a platinum 950 knurled bezel. Both editions are equipped with anti-reflective sapphire crystal and sapphire case back that flaunt the watch’s intricate inner workings, while ensuring a water resistance of up to 100 meters.
Dial & Features
The dial, a striking “Imperial Red,” is adorned with 18ct rose gold skeleton delta-shaped indexes, accentuated by a hand guilloché ‘Grain d’Orge’ finish, offering a luxurious texture and depth. The moon phase indicator adds a celestial element to the display, crafted in blue aventurine for an ethereal effect.
The centerpiece of the Tonda PF Xiali is the complete Chinese calendar complications, which intricately depict facets of the Xiali system: the 24 solar terms, the 12 zodiac signs, and the intercalary months. This multifaceted calendar is a reflection of the philosophical and agricultural significance embedded within the calendar’s structure.
Movement & Mechanics
At the heart of the watch is the Parmigiani PF008 movement, a marvel of engineering with a power reserve of 54 hours, oscillating at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz). The movement consists of 353 components and is meticulously decorated with Côtes de Genève and beveled bridges. The oscillating weight is crafted in 22ct rose gold, skeletonized, polished, and sandblasted to enhance the watch’s aesthetic allure.
The watch also includes traditional time functions with hours and minutes displayed via rhodium-plated, skeleton delta-shaped hands.
Symbolism & Launch
This timepiece is emblematic of cultural symbiosis, harmonizing ancient Chinese philosophy with Swiss watchmaking excellence. The Parmigiani Tonda PF Xiali Chinese Complete Calendar is set to debut on January 29, 2025, coinciding with Chinese New Year and the start of the Year of the Wood Snake. This timing underscores the watch’s cultural significance and commitment to celebration and renewal.
Philosophy
More than a mere time-indicating tool, the Tonda PF Xiali is a humanistic timepiece. It opens a dialogue between cultures and interprets time as a passage of universal language. It resonates with Michel Parmigiani’s belief that calendars are reflective windows into civilization’s understanding of nature’s rhythms and mankind’s quest for meaning.
Overall, the Parmigiani Tonda PF Xiali Chinese Complete Calendar is not just a watch; it’s a profound exploration of cultural narrative and horological precision, embodying a timeless tribute to the interconnectedness of traditional wisdom and modern craftsmanship.
