Toric Rattrapante | Limited Edition | Salmon | White Gold

This Parmigiani Toric Rattrapante* is one of a limited series of just 10 pieces. It combines classic chronograph aesthetics with an attractive salmon dial. Underpinning its split seconds complication is the hand-wound calibre 27101, based on an upgraded vintage Venus 179 from the 1940s.

Part of a limited collection of just 10 pieces, this Parmigiani Split-Seconds Chronograph combines a traditional, classically inspired stepped case with a highly technical complication. The model was first introduced in the 2000s, making this one of the early models to leave the manufacture.
 
The 40mm white gold case, which stands 14.8mm tall, is paired with an attractive salmon dial. The polished case features stepped and fluted bezels that are inspired by classical Greek and Roman “Doric” columns. Paired with simple, straight lugs, it presents a decidedly classical appearance. A rounded bezel runs along the edge of the display caseback. Etched on here are the brand mark as well as its number out of a limited edition of 10.
 
The dial is marked by the three recessed chronograph registers at 3, 6 and 9 o’clock – the at 3 o’clock registers 30 minutes while the one at 6 can count up to 12 hours of running time. These registers feature engine-turning, causing them to shimmer compared to the more muted finish of the surrounding dial. On the outer reaches runs a printed red tachymeter scale, followed by a black chronograph seconds register. A silver, Breguet-style 12 o’clock is accompanied by plots for the other hours. The hours and minutes hands are javelin-style and heat blued. One of the chronograph seconds hands wears a similar finish, while the split seconds hand is silver. All the hands in the subsidiary registers are simple baton-style and heat-blued. The watch comes on a black calfskin leather strap on its 20mm lugs and is secured by a white gold pin buckle with the knurled detail that is the brand’s signature.
 
The split-seconds complication allows the wearer to time two intervals instead of just one. The function on this piece can be activated by the pushers found on either side of the crown as well as on the crown itself. One of the more challenging and complex mechanical feats to pull off, the complication was first invented in the 19th century by Adolphe Nicole, a Swiss watchmaker.
 
The movement pays tribute to the archives of watchmaking, a love Michel Parmigiani developed over his years in restoration. This split-seconds chronograph speaks to that approach, taking the vintage calibre Venus 179 and modifying and refinishing it to a remarkably high standard. The Venus 179 was first introduced in the ‘40s and remained in production for close to two decades. In the process of production, Parmigiani Fleurier added two jewels and Incabloc shock protection to the base calibre to improve its reliability and function. The resulting calibre 27101 is wound by hand and manages 49 hours of autonomy.
 
The watch comes with its outer box as well as its attractive wooden inner box, warranty and service paperwork, as well as a detailed specification sheet. The paperwork is left blank. It represents not just a rare and desirable iteration of this early Toric Rattrapante but a seldom seen example of one available as a full set.

If sold within the United Kingdom, this Parmigiani Fleurier Limited Edition Toric Rattrapante will be subject to 20% VAT

Closer look

Condition

This Parmigiani Fleurier Toric Rattrapante is in very good overall condition. Light superficial marks are found on the case and lugs, consistent with relative wear over time. More specifically on the top of the lugs and between the lugs at six o'clock. The dial and movement have been well preserved, with deep and crisp hallmarks on the reverse of the lugs as well as the engravings on the caseback.

Warranty

The watch comes with a two-year warranty from A Collected Man, alongside a lifetime guarantee of authenticity.