Parmigiani Fleurier has once again showcased its mastery in craftsmanship with the unveiling of the L’Armoriale pocket watch, a unique addition to the Objets d’Art collection.
This distinctive timepiece is launched in honor of Michel Parmigiani, the Swiss watchmaker who established his eponymous brand in 1996, coinciding with his recent birthday. It stands as a genuine testament to the unparalleled expertise of each artisan at Parmigiani Fleurier.
Inspiration for this piece stemmed from a journey undertaken by Parmigiani Fleurier CEO, Guido Terreni, to northern Italy. This expedition was not only aimed at delving into the brand’s origins but also at marveling at the architectural wonders that profoundly influenced the founder’s work. Among these, Palazzo Te, a Renaissance villa in Mantua, left an indelible impression on Terreni, echoing Michel Parmigiani’s creative influences.
The inception of the L’Armoriale pocket watch emerged from this experience. At its core lies a mechanical movement dating back to 1890, salvaged by Parmigiani, thus establishing a bridge between contemporary and historical watchmaking techniques. Today, this movement features a chronograph, a minute repeater, and a perpetual calendar.
The meticulously hand-engraved 18-karat white gold case draws inspiration from the intricate floors of Palazzo Te. The rear side is adorned with an extraordinarily detailed enamel design, featuring a rich color scheme derived from the palette inspired by the coat of arms of the Gonzaga family, original owners of the Palazzo. Encased within, L’Armoriale boasts an elegant brown dial delicately finished in a “mezzo vibrato” theme with a stylized “Florentine” motif.
“L’Armoriale is not merely a one-of-a-kind pocket watch; it is a masterpiece from the Maison Parmigiani Fleurier that encapsulates the story, passion, and excellence of an exceptional man,” remarked Terreni.
“It serves as a reminder that watchmaking can sometimes transcend time to become a genuine work of art. This masterpiece invites us to immerse ourselves in the intricacies of Palazzo Te, to experience the essence of the Renaissance, and celebrate the extraordinary journey of Michel Parmigiani.”
Following Parmigiani’s signature approach, a team of master craftspeople known as Mains d’Or or “Golden Hands” were meticulously chosen to bring this piece to life. This team included master engravers Eddy Jacques and Christophe Blandenier, master enameler Vanessa Lecci, and master chain maker Laurent Jolliet.
