The SIHH is also the moment in the year that Geneva sees what we could call successful comebacks. This year, it is with great pleasure we see the return of the Parmigiani Fleurier Kalpa line. Launched in 1998 by Michel Parmigini himself, the Kalpa line remains a very contemporary watch. Celebrating the 20th anniversary, Parmigiani brings back the Kalpa line with a very interesting model and variations.
This watch is, as any watch manufactured by Parmigiani, a true wonder in terms of watchmaking. Every single detail is taken good care and the more you look to this watch, the more you think it is a great watch. The first striking element is the watch case and its distinctive tonneau shape. It became a true classic in watchmaking. With the Kalpa line, Parmigiani has shaped the movement in ways that fit the watch case perfectly. A very interesting detail of design is the integrated teardrop-shaped lugs that takes its inspiration from nature and the golden number. Inspired by nature, the Fleurier brand even used it in the watch’s name. Kalpa refers to cosmic order, ritual and art, in a perpetual search for harmony and universal energy.
During the 2018 SIHH, Parmigiani presents 3 new models within the Kalpa line, with the following movements, all COSC-certified:
- Calibre PF362 (automatic with chronograph)
- Calibre PF365 (in solid gold, automatic with chronograph)
- Calibre PF110 (hand-wound, eight-day power reserve)
Parmigiani Fleurier did not only relaunched the line but they have also reworked a few details that is worth mentioning. The idea is to improve a few elements that puts this watch in the timeless right track for the future. The watch case was slightly reworked, especially by better integrating the lugs into the watch design overall. We can see as well by comparing with previous models that the winding crown was enlarged for a better grip. The dials are amazing, a true state of the art with several levels of surfaces and finishes: guilloché, snailing or opaline work are enlightened with hand-applied faceted indices. The hands have been resized as well and given luminescent coating. Last but not least, you cannot miss the position of the date now. It has been moved to the top part of the dial. This allows a easier visibility to a very important functionality.
Having become an icon of the Parmigiani Fleurier brand by virtue of its unique aesthetics, ergonomic design and comfort, the Kalpa now presses onward along its path adorned with new features. First of all, it is now fitted with shaped movements that integrate precisely with the carefully crafted outlines of its tonneau case. This was both a technical and aesthetic choice, and highlights the brand’s broad expertise and manufacturing capabilities.
To showcase the new generation of Kalpa watches, Parmigiani Fleurier is making an impression with the Kalpa Chronor, which features the world’s first solid-gold, self-winding, integrated chronograph movement. This tonneau watch is water-resistant to 30 metres and made of hand- polished 18 ct rose gold.
Parmigiani Fleurier takes the name of its founder, Michel Parmigiani. The fine watchmaking brand was founded in 1996 in Fleurier, in the Swiss valley of Val-de-Travers. With its own watchmaking centre ensuring its independence, the brand has both full control over the production process and unique creative freedom. For twenty years, the Parmigiani Fleurier signature has been ingrained in respected timepieces inspired by established watchmaking tradition. They are the labour of a lifetime – that of Michel Parmigiani, the talented individuals who assist him, and the special relationship between the Manufacture and the masterpieces of the past, enabling it to invent a bold future. See more about the outstanding world of Parmigiani Fleurier by connecting to the official brand website:
https://www.parmigiani.com
Arsène Wargas
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