Parmigiani Fleurier Kalpagraphe Chronometer Titanium Slate

The Kalpa collection was originally introduced by Parmigiani Fleurier in 2001. It is one of the most recognizable models of the brand with its distinctive tonneau-shaped case extended by rounded, stylized teardrop lugs. Last year, at SIHH 2018, the Kalpa got a facelift with a tastefully modernized case and the use of shaped movements across the collection – yet still with a classic/elegant design. This year, the brand launched a new version, a much bolder and much more contemporary take on this watch, with the Kalpagraphe Chronometer Titanium Slate.

Monochrome modernity

Among the new models was the Kalpagraphe Chronometer, a large pink gold chronograph powered by an integrated column-wheel chronograph. This watch is now cased in sporty matte titanium offering a sleek monochromatic look. The different changes to the model enhance not only its aesthetic appeal but also its comfort on the wrist.

With its micro-blasted finished case and matte dark grey openwork dial, the Kalpagraphe Chronometer Titanium looks technical, stealthy, modern and yet elegant at the same time. The use of titanium for the case helps keep the weight down (especially compared to the heavy gold version), making this watch more comfortable on a daily basis, despite this impressive 48.2mm x 40.4mm case. Furthermore, it does look distinctive on the wrist and the result is entirely different from the previous versions.

The black and slate-coloured dial is laser cut resulting in a dark, skeletonized dial that contrasts ever so slightly with the matte titanium case. Parmigiani Fleurier explains that the detailed design is inspired by a car radiator grille. The signature Alpha-type hands are also skeletonized. They feature luminescent material to improve readability in the dark. The double-sided small seconds running at 6 o’clock is a nice touch. At 12 o’clock, the semi-instantaneous date window is opened on three numerals.

Form and substance

Turning the watch over, the exhibition caseback reveals a tonneau-shaped chronograph movement, perfectly integrated with the contours of the case. Shaped movements are rare birds because they are made to measure for one specific watch or case only, whereas round movements can be adapted to a variety of models.

The COSC-certified Calibre PF362 is a version of the high-end integrated automatic chronograph introduced by Parmigiani Fleurier a couple of years ago (originally as a split-second chronograph). Operating at 5Hz or 36,000 vibrations per hour, elapsed times can be measured to the nearest 10th of a second.

This automatic movement boasts 65 hours of power reserve. It features a column wheel, a vertical clutch, and a one-piece reset hammer. The balance is free-sprung with four inertia blocks. A full cock with twin supports ensures stability and shock resistance. On each side, there is a screw to adjust the balance end-shake. The elegant finishes include anglage, oblique Geneva stripes, perlage and snailing. The rotor is engraved with a barley grain guilloché pattern.

The Parmigiani Fleurier Kalpagraphe Chronometer Titanium Slate is worn on a black rubber strap. It is secured with a titanium folding buckle ensuring a snug fit. The price for this model is of CHF 39,500. For more information, please visit www.parmigiani.com.