It wears a bit larger than it seems, given the wide lugs, and in 18k rose gold it seems absolutely lovely. I would like to use the word “elegance” again to describe my view of how it looks. To me this implies that it has the graceful curves of an organic kind, while also being aesthetically pleasing to the eye using a cohesive type. It’s essentially a dress watch which gets extra attention since it’s distinct, however in no manner lost or of questionable taste. The fact that it’s a fancy tourbillon is that the expensive icing on the cake.As much as I can think about, Parmigiani understands the Ovale XL case is special, and does not use it for anything under $50,000 USD. That is a shame because I would like for there to be a steel or ceramic model with a simple automatic motion (still in the tonneau-shape) that is priced much less. It would serve as a marginally more daring counterpart to the Parmigiani Tonda 1950. Perhaps Parmigiani will entertain this petition in the future.Like most Parmigiani watches, the Ovale XL Tourbillon comes equipped with an Hermès strap, now in indigo blue alligator. I locate the relative width of the strap (thanks to this broad lugs) for a flattering look, and in addition, it will help enrich the formal, yet masculine stance of this timepiece’s in general form. A 30 second tourbillon will spin faster (obviously) than the usual 60 second tourbillon, and consequently its actual purpose is to supply an enhanced feeling of visual animation on the dial. A graceful rose gold line frames the open tourbillon window and bridge — being a detail I very much enjoy.
Parmigiani Fleurier was invited onto the stage at the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG) in recognition of two watches that have caught the public imagination. The Tonda Chronor Anniversaire won the “Chronograph” category, while the Toric Hémisphères Rétrograde took the top spot in the “Travel Time” category.
Tonda Chronor Anniversaire © Parmigiani Fleurier
This double award recognises Parmigiani Fleurier’s 21 years of dedicated work and horological progress. It reveals the spirit of dynamism that drives the brand and the expression of renewal that bears its fruits. It reflects the extraordinary potential of its independent Watchmaking Centre, which is able to produce every watch component, as well as innovate, break new ground and create authentic horological pieces. This award is dedicated to Michel Parmigiani, and to the pursuit of excellence that drives his work; it is also dedicated to the Sandoz Family Foundation, which has consistently and confidently invested in this incredible watchmaking adventure.
