Hands-On Review of the Parmigiani Fleurier Tonda PF Skeleton
You can probably tell by the fact that this is my third review of a watch from the Parmigiani Fleurier Tonda collection, that I am a big fan. In just a few short years, Parmigiani has, in my view, created a modern icon. A stainless steel sport watch for those that want something different from the Royal Oaks and Nautiluses of the world (though the Tonda might be almost as unobtainable).
Having reviewed the Tonda GT Chronograph and the Tonda PF GMT Rattrapante, I thought maybe I would be tired of the Tonda collection. But when I was offered the chance to go hands on with the Tonda PF Skeleton in stainless steel, I couldn’t say no. Though it might not have any complications, it is probably my favorite piece from the Tonda collection, for many reasons, including the ornate skeletonized dial, slim profile and amazing wearability.
When looking at any Tonda, a good place to start is probably the aspects that tie the collection together: the integrated stainless steel bracelet and the fluted bezel. Its hard to explain how important a well constructed bracelet can be on a watch. With the Tonda PF Skeleton, the bracelet is not only attractive, but incredibly comfortable. First off, it flows well from the case and lugs, and not only aesthetically (which it does), but the lugs are angled downward, making the watch almost curve around your wrist and provide a better fit. Additionally, in an age where basically every possible bracelet design has been tried, Parmigani managed to create something unique. The 3-link bracelet includes a brushed inner link, with the outer links brushed on the outside and polished on the inside closer to the case. Once the bracelet is fully tapered, the outer links are just polished.
While the bracelet is very comfortable, my ongoing gripe with expensive stainless steel sport watches continue. There is no micro-adjustment! I believe this is probably because the brand felt that there is no attractive way to include a micro-adjustment, but I believe every watch on bracelet should have one. There was a link sized 1.5x included, so at least the wearer can make sure that he has the perfect fit. I appreciated that.
Next up is the bezel. As I have said numerous times before, the Parmigiani Fleurier Tonda bezel is no Rolex retread. On their steel models, Parmigiani has upped the ante on Rolex by making the bezel platinum (Rolex’s steel watches have white gold bezels). On top of that, the fluting is much finer than that of a Rolex, making it appear a little more understated. Additionally, the bezel isn’t entirely fluted. The inner portion is as actually smooth and polished. The two surfaces offer a nice contrast on the bezel.
The case is 40mm in diameter and just 44.4mm lug-to-lug. But it is only 8.5mm thick. So the watch actually wears a bit smaller than a typical 40mm watch. Add on top of that, lugs that are curved downwards, and you get a watch that really hugs your wrist in the best way possible. This is indeed one of the most wearable sport watches on the market. Gotta love ergonomics!
Now that we’ve talked about the bezel and bracelet, and case we have to talk about the real star of the show: the dial. The skeletonized dial truly looks like it was designed to be on display. While many of Parmigiani’s previous skeleton dial watches (like the Toric) were a more traditional in their dials, that is not the Tonda. With this watch Parmigiani Fleurier leaned into the sporty and modern look of the rest of the watch. The movement’s bridges are satin brushed and graphite in color, a bit darker than the stainless steel case and bracelet.
One of the biggest complaints for any openworked watch is that it isn’t legible. That isn’t the case here. The graphite colored movement, along with the rose gold delta shaped hands (even though they are skeletonized), provides enough contrast to tell the time easily. And the rose gold hands and hour markers really give the dial a striking look.
The Tonda PF Skeleton runs on the in-house calibre PF777 automatic movement. The movement is just 3.9mm thick (allowing for such a slim case). It has 29 jewels, vibrates at a frequency of 28,800 Vph (4 Hz), and has a power reserve of 60 hours. The movement can be seen through a display caseback, and I have to say its as attractive on the backside as it is on the front. Continuing the touch of gold theme, the rotor is rose gold and engraved with the PF logo.
There really aren’t many downsides to Parmigiani Fleurier Tonda PF Skeleton. Perhaps the only one is the price-tag. At CHF 62,000 ($67,700 USD) its quite expensive for a steel sport watch, even with skeletonized dial. But to me the finishes and slimness and wearability, may make it worth it. And are we really seeing any openworked Royal Oak cheaper? You can learn more about the Parmigiani Fleurier Tonda PF Skeleton at their website.
