If the name wasn’t already a dead giveaway that this new collection ventures into sportier territory, then I don’t know how else Parmigiani could be clearer. If you are familiar with the Parmigiani from before their current CEO, Guido Terreni’s, tenure, you will note that the Tonda PF Sport’s aesthetics seem to represent a modern revamp of their Tonda GT collection.
The most obvious difference is that the big date that was usually at the 12 o’clock position is gone, replaced by the PF insignia which is one of the identifying factors of the new Tonda PF collection. There is still a date, but now it has been relocated to the 4 o’clock position. One small detail to note is that, unlike other date windows in this position, the numerals are actually oriented vertically instead of following the date wheel’s circumference making it palatable to the more discerning watch enthusiast.
The more nuanced changes to the collection come in the form of a new knurled bezel which now has 160 incisions rather than 225. Translated to visual terms, this means the knurling is now more obvious as compared to the Tonda GT and also to the regular Tonda PF. Inversely, the hand-guilloché ‘triangular nail’ pattern is finer than that of the Tonda GT giving the dial a seemingly smoother texture which from afar almost looks like a matte finish.
A few other stand-out features of the new Tonda PF Sport, especially for the Chronograph version, are the chronograph pushers that have been cleverly integrated into the lugs which match the smooth flowing lines of the case. And of course, internally the watch is equipped with a Calibre PF070 movement which beats at an above-average frequency of 5Hz or 36,000 vph while still being able to offer a 65-hour power reserve. It is a column wheel chronograph, which is clearly visible from the transparent caseback and the function is also engaged via a vertical clutch system.
Just to be clear, according to Parmigiani Fleurier, the Tonda PF Sport is not replacing the Tonda GT, at least for now, so both versions will be sold in tandem. The Tonda PF Sport Chronograph is available in stainless steel or 18ct rose gold and there is also a Tonda PF Sport Automatic if you prefer.
