Each one is unique while belonging to a whole, as astronomers believe that they originated from a single body that probably exploded hundreds of millions of years ago. The history of these meteorites can be read on the dial of the Tonda 1950 Météorite presented by Parmigiani Fleurier. It is a continuation of the previous special meteorite editions, which were presented in abyss blue and black nickel.
Cut using a process developed by the Manufacture’s dial-makers, this extremely hard and variable mineral structure stone was then polished before being chemically treated to bring out the famous “Widmanstätten patterns”. These are formed as the metal slowly cools over a long period; their striations bring an enigmatic message to each dial.
The case and bezel of the new Tonda 1950 are made from titanium and feature a polished finish. This 7.8 mm thick case houses the PF 702 proprietary self-winding calibre. With just 2.6 mm of thickness, it belongs to the realm of ultrathin movements. Its in-house finishes, the sand-blasted, circular-grained and rhodium-plated nickel silver main plate, the hand-bevelled bridges decorated with Côtes de Genève, and the bevelled, sunk wheels circular-grained on both sides and gilded before cutting, show that the watch belongs to the world of fine watchmaking.
The Tonda 1950 Météorite is a numbered special edition and features the words “Edition Spéciale” engraved on the case back. It comes with a shiny black Hermès alligator strap. To accompany the launch, Parmigiani Fleurier is re-releasing two other models that showcase meteorite stone, one with an abyss blue dial, the other with a black dial, both exuding an intense and mysterious character.
