Parmigiani Fleurier has revisited one of the most iconic watches from the Tonda line, in terms of both function and design. The new Métrographe now offers a more dynamic design fuelled by watchmaking references. The signature urban and expressive character has been retained, but new indications such as the tachometer, and revisited counter proportions ensure its place amongst traditional chronographs, exuding all the hallmarks of fine craftsmanship.
To kick off the new year, Parmigiani Fleurier announced two new timepieces utilizing their unique “Galaxy” way of texturizing dials. The Parmigiani Fleurier Tonda 1950 Galaxy Gold Bracelet and the Tonda Métropolitaine Selene would be the newest unofficial (maybe official at some stage) “his and hers” apparel watch offerings out of the brand. Interestingly enough, pricing is considerably lower compared to the previously published Tonda 1950 Galaxy Set.To create these stunning and statement-making dials, Parmigiani Fleurier utilize a technique that needs falling “Aventurine,” that is a hybrid copper and glass material, into the midnight blue dial producing everything looks like stars — consequently, “Galaxy.” As for me, I find this decoration interesting with an almost poetic charm, and I am excited to find these extra versions brandishing the unique technique.If the dial seems familiar, that is because two years back, Parmigiani Fleurier introduced the original Tonda 1950 Galaxy Set, which arrived on a shiny black leather strap with a gemstone bezeled rose gold case. Though the Tonda 1950 Galaxy Gold Bracelet may bear a brand new reference number, it’s the same watch as before using the star of this series being the brand new slick solid rose gold bracelet with folding clasp. While I don’t necessarily want to invest too much time delving into the technical details of a view we covered (you can read all about it from the link above), the addition of this bracelet gives this view a far more handsome look.
The fully polished stainless steel case, measuring 40mm and water resistant to 30m, houses two different colours of dial, a shiny white silver shade and a black oxidised tone. The black dial features a powdered rose gold decal that echoes the hands of the two counters crafted from the same metal. Meanwhile the white dial is paired with blued hands. The snailed decoration beneath the appliques and inside the counters is achieved using a chasing tool that removes an infinitesimal amount of material. This technique creates a concentric pattern with a striped effect that lends the dial depth.
The proportions of the hour and minute counters have been recalculated to allow the time to be read more directly and effectively. The outer area of the figure of 8 is now formed by a slightly raised section of material, rather than a flat luminescent coating. The red number “1” on the date is a subtle yet effective touch which I Due Parmigiani has reinstated on the Métrographe.
The domed hands add a touch of brilliance. The double hand at 3 o’clock was already present on the Tonda Chronor Anniversaire unveiled to mark the 20th anniversary of the watch brand. Whilst still subtle, the addition of blue on some of the hands serves as a reference to traditional watchmaking, while the reworked indices give the piece a resolutely contemporary air.
The Métrographe is powered by the PF315 self-winding movement with an additional chronograph module and offering a 42-hour power reserve. Beating at 28’800 vph and produced in the Manufacture’s multi-discipline watchmaking centre, it features bridges decorated with Côtes de Genève.
The Tonda Métrographe is fitted with an elegant and lightweight leather strap, or a steel bracelet that exudes sport chic.
