Parmigiani Tonda 1950 Dress Watch Review

KMII · 2016-08-17T10:34:54Z

KMII shares a hands-on review of the Parmigiani Tonda 1950, a 39mm dress watch with a thin PF701 micro-rotor movement. Discover its elegance and comfort.

KMII

WPS member · Horological Meandering forum

36 replies5237 views3 photos

KMII shares a hands-on experience with the Parmigiani Tonda 1950, a watch that has firmly landed on their shortlist for a dress watch acquisition. This post is particularly insightful for collectors considering high-end dress watches, offering a personal perspective on the Tonda 1950's comfort, elegant design, and the appeal of its micro-rotor movement. KMII's comparison to other notable dress watches provides valuable context for potential buyers.

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I have had a look at Parmigiani watches before and recently managed to see and try on the Tonda 1950, one of my favourites from the brand based on pure pictorial evidence. And I have to say it worked just as well on the wrist as it did on pictures. An elegant, simple three hands dress watch. There is really not much that is superfluous (some may find the lume to be unneccessary on a dress watch but it does not bother me), or not just right.

It is comfortable on the wrist, not too large (although pushing close to the limit for a dress watch at 39mm), sufficiently light and looks simply beautiful. Adequately thin, too, at 7,8mm.

What is true of the dial side, works on the movement side as well. A lovely micro rotor automatic movement (PF701), one of the thinner automatic movements out there at 2,6mm and nicely finished.

It's early days but when I finally take the plunge and get myself a proper dress watch, this one will definitely be one of the front runners. It could also turn out to be a Chopard LUC XPS, a Cartier Santos Dumont, or as a wild card a Urban Jürgensen Ref. 8 but the Tonda 1950 is now firmly on the list.

Key Points from the Discussion

The contributor suggests considering the blue meteorite version of the Tonda 1950 if budget allows, and also recommends Chopard LUC XPS and Moritz Grossmann as alternatives in a similar vein.
The contributor appreciates that the forum's membership is not solely focused on residual value, allowing for broader brand consideration like Parmigiani Fleurier, and highlights that the Tonda 1950's micro-rotor is made of platinum.
The contributor praises the PF701 micro-rotor movement, noting its allure and the beautifully shaped bridges, identifying it as a refined piece for connoisseurs.
The contributor expresses a preference for Chopard LUC or Moser over the Parmigiani Tonda 1950, or even a Vacheron Constantin Traditionnelle or F.P. Journe Chronomètre Bleu, citing an inability to fully understand Parmigiani's brand positioning.
The original author confirms that resale value is less of a concern for them, making brands like Parmigiani Fleurier, Girard-Perregaux, and Chopard viable options for personal enjoyment rather than investment.
The contributor recounts a memorable dinner with Mr. Parmigiani, finding him a gentleman and very informative, which left a positive impression of the brand.

The Discussion

KtWP

Aug 17, 2016

The movement decoration looks a little more austere than the Chopard XPS but probably technically better finished?

KMII

Aug 17, 2016

And did not take any macro shots to be able to compare. Possibly someone else has the answer... Thanks for your comment!

KMII

Aug 17, 2016

Laurent Ferrier is out of the realistic price range for me at the moment. Otherwise I would definitely consider it. If I was willing to spend more money the VC 1972 would also be a top runner, I guess.

Ares501 - Mr Green

Aug 17, 2016

aficionados choice for sure Sincerely D

KMII

Aug 17, 2016

It is the less common choice, I guess but that has an appeal all of its own

Alkiro1

Aug 17, 2016

If you want, send my a PM Best wishes Alkiro

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