When watchmaking becomes art: that is the promise of the Tonda PF Skeleton Platinum by Parmigiani Fleurier, a timepiece that, beneath its discreet elegance, hides a fascinating and complex mechanism . Let’s dive into this open-worked horological gem, where every detail is designed to amaze.
A fusion of art and mechanics
How can we describe this watch other than as a sculpture for the wrist? With its platinum 950 case and its finely open-worked 187 components, the Tonda PF Skeleton Platinum is more than just a watch; it’s a kinetic work of art. The fully skeletonized PF777 movement is revealed with striking transparency, allowing the viewer to observe the intricate ballet of gears and components from every angle.
This open-working, a virtuoso exercise, goes beyond removing excess material: it literally invites light to dance across the surfaces, creating a visual spectacle. Much like contemporary architecture rethinks full and empty spaces, the Tonda PF Skeleton turns this duality into an aesthetic principle.
A skeletonized caliber, master of the stage
At the heart of this horological ballet lies the PF777 caliber, skeletonized and manufactured in-house, a testament to Parmigiani Fleurier’s expertise. With a power reserve of 60 hours, this movement beats at 28,800 vibrations per hour, offering precision worthy of the finest complications.
The true stroke of genius? The oscillating weight in platinum 950. Visible through the sapphire crystal case back, it bears the brand’s logo, engraved beneath a sapphire glass medallion, creating the illusion of a floating mass. As it moves with the wearer’s wrist, it recharges the barrel, which is also open-worked, revealing the secrets of the mainspring’s tension and release.
A play of light and contrast
The color palette is another strength of this timepiece. The contrast between the deep blue of the Milano Blue dial and the metallic sheen of the platinum brings a visually striking dimension. Every surface of the movement is finely satin-finished and sandblasted, while the edges are hand-polished to capture and reflect light with near-artistic precision.
The 18-carat gold indices, suspended as if weightless, and the Delta-shaped skeletonized hands further enhance this impression of lightness and balance. However, don’t be deceived by this apparent fragility: the Tonda PF Skeleton is robust, with a 100-meter water resistance.
A design as fluid as time itself
With a case measuring 40 mm in diameter and just 8.5 mm thick, the watch fits the wrist with unparalleled elegance. Platinum, typically dense and heavy, is subtly balanced here to offer a feeling of lightness, thanks to a uniform weight distribution.
The sleek, graphic lines of the case, accentuated by the knurled bezel that captures the light, continue this visual harmony. Despite its complexity, the Tonda PF Skeleton achieves the remarkable feat of being both minimalist and technically sophisticated.
For horological purists
The Tonda PF Skeleton Platinum is more than just a watch; it is the expression of a horological vision where art and technique converge. It appeals to discerning collectors, those who appreciate the subtleties of a skeletonized caliber and the nuances of carefully executed finishes.
With a price of 117,000 CHF, this model is an exceptional piece that combines the nobility of platinum with the mastery of unique watchmaking craftsmanship. Parmigiani Fleurier continues to write a story where each passing second pays homage to horological art.
Technical Specifications of the Tonda PF Skeleton Platinum Blue:
- Reference: PFC912-2020003-200182
- Price: 117,000 CHF
- Functions: hours, minutes
- Movement: PF777 caliber, skeletonized, automatic, 60-hour power reserve, 28,800 VpH
- Case: Platinum 950, 40 mm in diameter, 8.5 mm thick
- Dial: Milano Blue, satin-finished and sandblasted
- Hands: Delta-shaped, skeletonized, 18-carat rhodium-plated gold
- Bracelet: Platinum 950 with 18-carat white gold folding clasp
In summary, the Tonda PF Skeleton Platinum is the perfect embodiment of the fusion between traditional watchmaking and contemporary design, destined to captivate aesthetes and purists around the world.
