A private showcase of the latest collections from Parmigiani Fleurier was recently presented at Qing Gallery in Desa Parkcity. Hosted by Sincere Fine Watches and Cortina Watch, the two-day event served up displays of exquisite watchmaking craftsmanship, entertainment by swing jazz trio The Frankie Sixes, and an exclusive opportunity to soar in the sky.
Guests had the opportunity to view Parmigiani Fleurier’s latest collections, including a selection of those shortlisted for the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève 2023—the equivalent of the Academy Awards in watchmaking—which honours the most exceptional horological innovations for the year. These timepieces included the Tonda PF Minute Rattrapante, Tonda PF Xiali Calendar and Tonda PF Micro-Rotor.
As guests explored the stunning selection of timepieces, they were treated to the finest servings of canapes and premium beverages. Over the course of the two evenings, a steady flow of champagne, fine a l’eau cocktails, and Martell’s classic Cordon Bleu made for the perfect accompaniments to the overall experience as did the wealth of art within Qing Gallery. The event was further elevated by the resplendent Steinway & Sons Spirio, an incredible high-resolution self-playing piano, which enchanted guests with musical interludes throughout the night.
Between the lively conversations, Guido Terreni, CEO of Parmigiani Fleurier, took to the stage to welcome everyone before delving into the essence of Parmigiani Fleurier. “To me, Parmigiani is quite a unique brand,” he said. “If you are into Parmigiani, you are usually a person who pays attention to knowledge, true values and a private way of enjoying luxury.” He then expanded on his aspirations of pushing the boundaries of watchmaking, in style and in mechanics, though in a way that maintains a refined and understated elegance. “If I can summarise Parmigiani in two words, it’s really the ‘ultimate discretion’. One of you told me a very beautiful sentence earlier: ‘This watch is for the eyes of the owner’. I think this is a beautiful way of simplifying what we are trying to do. Because at the end of the day, true luxury is very private.”
Soon, one of the biggest highlights of the events would unveil itself. Just outside the gallery, a hot-air balloon was set to ascend. Guests were offered the opportunity to fly, courtesy of Izzati Khairudin, the first female hot-air balloon pilot in Malaysia. “The balloon is something that is symbolic to the brand but is also a passion of the founder,” Terreni explained. He described hot-air balloons as a way of observing life and nature from a different point of view, drifting in the calm serenity of nature that is pleasant and unhurried. “That’s the reason why the balloon is a part of the history. We have also been sponsoring a very important race of balloons in Switzerland for many, many years that is a cherished symbol of the brand. So, when you see a balloon, you will always think about the pleasant times with Parmigiani.”
The Frankie Sixes closed the festivities at the end of each day. As one of the most beloved swing jazz acts in the country, the band helped to mark a memorable celebration of horological excellence with Parmigiani Fleurier.
Image Credits: SueAnneK and Annice Lyn / The Spacemen
