Cover An automatic Parmigiani movement
An automatic Parmigiani movement
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Parmigiani Fleurier sets a high bar for itself as an haute watchmaker
There is a reason why the term “sublime” is synonymous with Parmigiani. Given its steadfast commitment to quality, it’s no surprise that the Fleurier-based manufacture is vertically integrated. This approach provides access to all the expertise, tools, and machinery needed to achieve its best work, while also maintaining complete control to guarantee that every piece leaving the manufacture meets its stringent requirements.
Such dedication stems from founder Michel Parmigiani’spassion for restoration work. After attending watchmaking schools, he specialised in this field, which is typically reserved for the best and the brightest. When quartz watches first asserted their dominance in the 1970s, Michel set up his own restoration workshop, driven by a sense of duty to preserve traditional watchmaking.
“Restoration gave me the confidence to pursue my watchmaking dreams, which seemed to be at risk. It taught me that only quality work and genuine craftsmanship can transcend time,” he said.
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Above Michel Parmigiani
Michel Parmigiani
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Restoring an object to its former glory demands patience and sensitivity. For Michel, this process begins with assessing the object’s condition, evaluating its functions, and understanding its provenance.
The latter involves casting aside personal judgments and biases to fully immerse oneself in the artisanal techniques of the past. Only then can the actual restoration work commence.
Today, the restoration workshop remains at the core of Parmigiani Fleurier. It is here, in a house opposite its head office on Rue du Temple in Fleurier, where its most magnificent work is accomplished.
Our visit reveals that restoration extends beyond timepieces. With a gleam in his eye, Michel shows off one of the atelier’s recent projects: an opulently decorated walking cane handle featuring an automaton that triggers a tweeting bird.
Also on display are the movement of the Fleur d’Orient table clock, one of Michel’s earliest restoration projects, and the pantograph pocket watch with telescopic hands, which was successfully adapted into the Ovale wristwatch. His respect for the past has paid off, continuing to empower Parmigiani’s watchmakers to this day.
“[Michel] has imparted to me and to his team the values he stands for. He is a modest and discreet person, but he is also a very competent watchmaker. The brand that carries his name evokes such discretion and competence. We work hard to make sure these values endure,” said CEO Guido Terreni.
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Above The Parmigiani Fleurier head office in Neuchâtel
The Parmigiani Fleurier head office in Neuchâtel
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Although Michel founded his workshop in 1976, the Parmigiani name didn’t become a brand until 1996, with support from the Sandoz Family Foundation. From the outset, the brand recognised the importance of independence to pursue its creative watchmaking vision.
In 2000, it acquired Les Artisans Boîtiers, which now produces Parmigiani’s cases. Each one begins its journey in a virtual workshop, where 3D software ensures its manufacturability. Precision machines then carve out the case. While advanced technology plays a significant role, traditional craftsmanship is equally important. Skilled artisans apply the final touches by hand, meticulously finishing every surface to perfection.
By 2005, Quadrance & Habillage was established to produce watch dials. Located within the same building as Les Artisans Boîtiers, the facility is renowned for its high-end dials, crafted using numerically controlled machines and various artisanal finishes. Whether it’s guilloché, graining, or lacquering, Quadrance & Habillage’s extensive expertise allows it to fulfil special requests from both Parmigiani’s watchmakers and its clients.
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Above Parmigiani Fleurier produces its own watch cases
Parmigiani Fleurier produces its own watch cases
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Parmigiani Fleurier is uniquely positioned to count the renowned Vaucher Manufacture Fleurier as part of its family. This specialist in high-end movements serves the top tier of the watch industry. Well-regarded for its all-round excellence, Vaucher boasts an impressive roster of clients, with Parmigiani being a significant partner among many.
The variety of watch movements it has produced is akin to a Hall of Fame, including the recent PF777 automatic skeleton movement for Parmigiani’s Tonda PF and the intricate PF361 manual split-seconds chronograph, created to celebrate the return of the Toric model.
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Vaucher’s R&D department is its nerve centre, driving innovations and developing technical solutions. Serving as a true incubator for new projects, its watchmakers are responsible for creating technical blueprints and outlining necessary steps, including recommendations for custom tools and machines, to bring ideas to life.
Artisans are also responsible for decorating the movement parts before they are sent for assembly. Each step is executed with great care and accuracy, aiming to produce pieces that stand the test of time.
Above A watchmaker at Vaucher Manufacture Fleurier
A watchmaker at Vaucher Manufacture Fleurier
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Collectively, these facilities embody a resolute commitment to quality and Michel’s craftsmanship values. This unwavering dedication ensures that Parmigiani Fleurier remains at the forefront of haute horlogerie.
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Brian Cheong leads the watch (Tatler GMT) and jewellery content at Tatler Malaysia, combining sharp editorial insight with years of luxury lifestyle experience. A seasoned journalist in luxury watches based in Kuala Lumpur, Brian had previously helmed World of Watches, Men's Folio and Prestige Malaysia.
