You can’t go Wrong with the classics
Here’s a look at the watchmaking maisons who showcased at the renown watch trade show Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie (SIHH) this year from the 14th to the 17th January 2019. We’ve picked the showstoppers at the event and the next on our list is — the Parmigiani Fleurier Kalpagraphe Chronometre Titanium.
You can find the full series here.
Michel Parmigiani honed his craft as a restorer of vintage watches, so naturally Parmigiani Fleurier today is best known for classically styled watches such as the Toric and Tonda collections. But contemporary design is not neglected, as proven by the Kalpagraphe Chronometre Titanium (CHF39,500 or RM161,093). It is a streamlined grey-and-black themed tonneau-shaped chronograph, with prominent lugs and pushers that are daring without losing a sense of refinement. The 48mm by 40mm titanium case has a micro-blasted finish while the dial is laser-cut for a skeletonised grille-like appearance that allows glimpses of the movement beneath. Completed with a rubber strap, it is every inch the modern sports watch.
The integrated chronograph movement, with column wheel and vertical clutch, is not neglected, of course—in fact, it took six years of in-house development. In the spirit of unified design, the self-winding calibre PF362 it is also tonneau-shaped, and features COSC certification and a beat rate of 36,000 vibrations per hour. This, combined with an additional bridge that helps secure the balance against shocks, means the Kalpagraphe Chronometre Titanium is hardy enough to withstand the active lifestyle it is so clearly made for.
SIHH 2019 Recap
The 29th edition of Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie (SIHH) was another record-breaking one, counting 23,000 visitors over its four days. Geneva’s Palexpo convention centre was packed not only with people, but the latest about to be unleashed on the horological world from the 35 participating brands.
There were quite a few new beginnings and surprises. Ulysse Nardin reworked the iconic Freak, and Bovet’s debut introduced the fair to its historical pocket watch heritage. Vacheron Constantin and Hermes surprised with some truly innovative watchmaking, while Panerai showcased new limited editions that come with adventurous experiences attached. On their last appearances at SIHH, both Audemars Piguet and Richard Mille unveiled new collections—the former surprising with distinct and deliberate design, while the latter with a completely unexpected candy-themed range.
