PARMIGIANI Tonda 1950 Météorite

Each one is unique while belonging to a whole, as astronomers believe that they originated from a single parent body that probably exploded hundreds of millions of years ago. Vein by vein, this history can be read on the dial of the Tonda 1950 Météorite presented by Parmigiani Fleurier. It is a continuation of the previous special meteorite editions, which were presented in abyss blue and black nickel. The stone used for the dial of this new creation comes from Sweden, where a meteor fragment unlike any other has recently been discovered and which could potentially shed new light on the most important aspects of the solar system. The Tonda 1950 Météorite likewise presents a face where the dark side has been removed to reveal a light shade. Cut using a process developed by the Manufacture’s dial-makers, who took into consideration the extreme hardness and variability of its mineral structure, it was then polished before being chemically treated to bring out the famous “Widmanstätten patterns”. These are formed as the metal slowly cools over a long period. Revealed thanks to a clever alchemy, their striations bring an enigmatic message to each dial. The case and bezel of the new Tonda 1950 are made from titanium and feature a polished finish. Difficult to machine, the metal, which was first used in the aviation and aerospace industries, is appreciated by the Manufacture for its strength and mechanical properties that make it ideal for lightweight and elegant pieces.

Measuring just 2.6 mm thick, it belongs to the realm of ultrathin movements. Its in-house finishes – the sand-blasted, circular-grained and rhodium-plated nickel silver main plate, the hand-bevelled bridges decorated with Côtes de Genève, and the bevelled, sunk wheels circular-grained on both sides and gilded before cutting – show that the watch belongs to the world of fine watchmaking. The raw feel of meteorite, the urban energy of titanium and traditional expertise form a powerful union in this piece powered by an extremely thin proprietary calibre. The Tonda 1950 Météorite is a numbered special edition and features the words “EDITION SPECIALE” engraved on the case back. It comes with a shiny black Hermès alligator strap. To accompany the launch, the Parmigiani Fleurier Manufacture is re-releasing two other models that showcase meteorite stone, one with an abyss blue dial, the other with a black dial – intense special editions that exude mystery.