Parmigiani @ Tonda 1950 Special Edition Meteorite

Parmigiani Tonda 1950 Special Edition Meteorite is unpolished, irregular and fragmented – such are the characteristics of a meteorite. Yet, it is this captivating rock that forms the dial. Available in Abyss Blue or black, these dials feature a texture whose beauty lies in the very fact that it is unpredictable; mysterious, because it is not entirely of this world. The rapid change in temperature that the meteor rock is subjected to as it enters the atmosphere indelibly imprints its crystal structure, even if it appears homogeneous in its natural state. The rock must be treated in a series of acid baths to gradually reveal the magnificent texture born from this natural impact. Every step involved in working with meteor rock is a delicate process. It is difficult to machine as it is harder than normal rock; as its mineral structure is unpredictable and varying, conventional working processes cannot be used. Therefore, it is only after scientific tests, and with the benefit of their experience, that master dial-makers have come up with the perfect cut and the two colourways which the models now boasts: Abyss Blue or Nickel black. Colouring each of these unique rocks to create both shades is a real feat of galvanoplasty and is considered as a world first. The case of this special edition Tonda 1950 is made from titanium, a lightweight and elegant material which is particularly difficult to machine due to its inflammability. But this challenge was one which simply had to be met, as it was important that a natural element found in the periodic table – titanium, unlike platinum or gold, is not used as an alloy was paired with something as pure and natural as a meteorite. 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, 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.