Parmigiani Fleurier Tonda PF Alligator
Following the successful launch of the Tonda PF collection in 2021, the brand from Val-de-Travers has just unveiled the Parmigiani Fleurier Tonda PF Alligator, comprising three references in 18-carat rose gold. However, where these watches differ from other Tonda PF models is they come presented, for the first time, on sumptuous colour-coordinating straps.
A new CEO. A new collection
Guido Terreni was appointed CEO of Parmigiani Fleurier in February 2021. Clearly a man on a mission, he did not waste much time making changes. In September of the same year, just seven months after his arrival, Mr Terreni unveiled the Tonda PF collection.
Initially, the Tonda PF collection comprised a two-hander (with date), a chronograph and an annual calendar, each housed in a choice of stainless steel or 18-carat rose gold. At the same time, the Maison also released the Tonda PF Split Seconds Chronograph, a limited edition of 25 pieces, encased in platinum and fitted with a matching, platinum dial.
The luxury marque’s fastidious attention to detail distinguished these models as exceptional. The subtly appointed guilloché dials resembled finely woven fabric with a high thread count. A steel case was clearly too mundane for Mr Terreni, so the brand paired the egalitarian housing with a noble platinum bezel. The juxtaposing of these materials imbued the case with slight tonal differences that are difficult to capture in images. However, when viewed on the wrist, they exhibit an extraordinary degree of sophistication.
All too often prominent branding mars the appearance of a luxury product. Mr Terreni, recognising that true luxury is not about conspicuous labels, chose to employ a more discreet form of product labelling, merely initialling the brand’s creations, PF. The palpable virtue of each watch said everything.
Earlier this year, Parmigiani Fleurier enlarged its Tonda PF portfolio with three new models, including a skeleton, a flying tourbillon and a highly innovative GMT Rattrapante. Unveiled at Watches & Wonders, each model was warmly received by the press and trade alike. Indeed, when I chatted with Mr Terreni a few months ago, he revealed that the brand’s order books were virtually full.
An ergonomic bracelet par excellence
Until recently, a key attribute common to all Tonda PF models is that they all sport a superb ergonomic bracelet. In fact, having placed a Tonda PF upon my wrist, I can attest that the soft caress of each link proves very agreeable. Close examination also reveals the links successfully combine both brushed and polished surfaces, with each finish flawlessly presented. The construction of the lugs and bracelet is both elaborate and rich in detail.
Parmigiani Fleurier Tonda PF Alligator
Now, Mr Terreni, an industry veteran with a nose for untapped markets, has unveiled three further versions of the Tonda PF, all presented in 18-carat rose gold. This horological triumvirate, comprising the Tonda PF Micro-Rotor, Tonda PF Chronograph, and Tonda PF Annual Calendar, eschews metal bracelets in favour of sumptuous alligator leather straps. These straps securely affix to the wrist with a triple-blade buckle, simply opened by squeezing two pushers. The hue of each strap corresponds with the dial colour of the selected model.
Considering the Tonda PF has been paired with one of the finest bracelets on the market, it may seem strange to offer a strap option. However, many consumers prefer the look and feel of alligator and if there is one thing that Mr Terreni has repeatedly shown since his arrival at Parmigiani Fleurier, he has a remarkable talent for indulging customers with products they want to own.
