Skip to main content

The Manual Wind: Parmigiani Tonda 1950 Squelette

parmigiani-fleurier-tonda-1950-squelette-02Storied brands in the watch world usually all have similar origins.  Two watchmakers come together sometime in the 1800’s to collaborate on the production of a new movement, slap their last names on it, and become watch folklore.  The highest quality brands to this day stand true to some form of this story in one way or another.  Their watch lineage is proven by the provenance of parmigiani-fleurier-tonda-1950-squelette-03their pieces.  One brand that holds the watchmakers namesake but does not have the age behind the story is Parmigiani.  As compared to some of the high end more established brands, Parmigiani is young.  Named after the expert watchmaker that worked at parmigiani-fleurier-tonda-1950-squelette-06restoring some of the most complicated and exquisite pieces of the famed Sandoz collection, the Sandoz family saw opportunity and invested in Michel Parmigiani.

parmigiani-fleurier-tonda-1950-squelette-04Since 1996, Parmigiani has created some of the most unique watch designs along with some of the highest quality movements and complications.  A true manufacturer, this Fleurier based in-house watch brand manufactures springs, to cases, and everything in between.

Recommended Videos

One of their latest introductions shows their true manufacturing prowess.  The Tonda 1950 Squelette takes Parmigianis classic 39mm gold case with tear drop lugs and exhibits the beautiful movement they are known for.  This ultra thin caliber with a 42 hour power reserve bares all, including its micro rotor, between the two sapphire crystals.  One of the most legible skeletons, the hour and minute hands are well sized and also lumped making this a more practical skeleton dress piece than most.  The openness of this dial creates the illusion of a larger watch while still maintaining a conservative size on the wrist.  Attached with an Hermes crocodiles strap, Parmigiani insures their timepiece is of the highest quality all around.

Considering they are just creeping up on their 20th anniversary, Michel, the Sandoz Family, and Parmigiani have done amazing things in watchmaking in a short period of time.  The Tonda 1950 Squelette is just one example and i am sure their will be more to come.

Take a look at other Parmigiani creations here.

The Manual
The Manual is simple — we show men how to live a life that is more engaged. Whether it be fashion, food, drink, travel…
Topics
Adidas and CLOT turn the Stan Smith into a summer-ready espadrille
Adidas, CLOT by Edison Chen remix the Stan Smith sneaker
man wearing white adidas stan smith sneakers

Continuing their long-standing partnership, Adidas and CLOT by Edison Chen are once again delivering a remix on one of the brand’s most classic designs. Fresh off of the release of their beaded sneakers, the newest launch between this duo is all about a summer-inspired design on the heritage Stan Smith sneaker. As part of the launch, a new campaign featuring various athletic stars, including tennis legend Stan Smith and F1 driver George Russell, captures the essence of the sneaker’s traditional look while incorporating modern upgrades. Adding a seasonally apt espadrille sole to the Stan Smith design, the sneaker becomes the ultimate summer shoe, fusing a classic summer style with Adidas’ iconic casual sneaker. 

Get ready to take on summer with Adidas x CLOT by Edison Chen

Read more
Hunter x Represent redefines western style with a new cowboy boot drop
Hunter, Represent unveil a new cowboy boot
hunter boot in saddle

When it comes to creating a sturdy yet stylish boot that can withstand rain and the elements, Hunter is well established as a major player in the industry. Known for their chic yet practical rainboots, Hunter has nailed the concept of balancing style with function, even in the most extreme environments. Now, with fellow British-based brand, Represent, Hunter is taking on a new frontier: the American West. While both brands hail from the United Kingdom, this partnership explores the ultimate Americana footwear, the cowboy boot. With a fusion piece that embodies this heritage silhouette, both brands have elevated the style with their distinctive British flair. Bringing two new boot styles to the table, this collaboration draws inspiration from Western aesthetics, featuring details reminiscent of vintage cowboy boots. 

Hunter x Represent takes on the cowboy boot with British flair

Read more
Lancia and Eberhard unveil a bold new HF watch celebrating racing heritage
Lancia and Eberhard & Co. launch HF luxury watch honoring iconic racing legacy
The 'High Fidelity' timepiece up close

Bringing together the finest in Italian design and Swiss watchmaking mastery, Lancia and Eberhard & Co. have teamed up to create the Lancia HF ('High Fidelity') luxury watch — a striking timepiece that revels in the brand’s iconic motorsport history. The collaboration marks another milestone in Lancia’s resurgence, merging cutting-edge technology with timeless racing heritage.

Released at Lancia Design Day, the HF timepiece epitomizes the fearless spirit of the brand’s legendary High Fidelity (HF) performance badge, a symbol of speed and innovation. Eberhard & Co., a Swiss watchmaker revered since 1887, has masterfully crafted a chronograph reflecting Lancia’s dynamic aesthetic while upholding the highest standards of precision engineering.

Read more