Over the last decade, the entire landscape of the luxury watch industry has dramatically changed. Previously, large watch companies or corporate conglomerates invested heavily in advertising. However, a glossy double page spread was not sufficient and brands devised different and more effective strategies.
As well as paying celebrities to wear their watches, brands are also involved in global partnerships. Cross marketing with high-end automotive dealers seems to be paying dividends. If you are a wealthy client with a luxury vehicle, it’s only natural you would want an equally impressive timepiece. In my opinion, one of the most successful unions is the collaboration between Parmigiani Fleurier and Bugatti.
Parmigiani Fleurier Kalpa Kalpagraphe
I have previously featured Parmigiani Fleurier in two books, and I am a massive fan of the brand in general. The company was established by watch restorer Michel Parmigiani in 1996. Over the last 23-years the business has grown exponentially and the brand is now synonymous with luxury timepieces. In my opinion, their Bugatti collection is the most innovative work to date; however traditionalists might prefer something like the Kalpa Kalpagraphe because it is a bit less radical.
A few months ago, I wrote an article about non-conventional watches, which highlighted the fact that this remains a niche area. Most buyers still prefer classical round cases, but I am an advocate for change, and the Kalpa Kalpagraphe has a bold identity without being too extreme.
For this model, Parmigiani Fleurier has opted to use a rectangular ‘Tourneau’ style case in stainless steel, measuring 44.5mm x 39.2mm x 12.8mm. I feel that this case shape and proportions give the watch a very sporty aesthetic that is designed to get noticed. Other distinctive features include a black satin dial with concentric circle chronograph counters, delta-shaped hour/minute hands, and raised rhodium plated indexes.
At the heart of the watch is a refined (in-house manufacture) Swiss made self-winding movement. The Calibre PF334 comprises 68-jewels, contains 303 individual components, and oscillates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour.
This impressive “Côtes de Genève” decorated mechanism is visibly showcased through the sapphire crystal exhibition case back. Functionally, the Kalpa Kalpagraphe features hours, minutes, small seconds, a date complication, and chronograph functionality. Additionally, the watch has a power reserve of 50-hours and is water resistant to a depth of 30 meters.
