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12.09.2025

Toric Petite Seconde: A New Era of Elegance

Illustration for: Toric Petite Seconde: A New Era of Elegance

When Michel Parmigiani launched the first Toric in the mid-1990s, it wasn’t merely another release—it was a statement of purpose. As a restorer of horological masterpieces stepping into his own spotlight, Michel crafted a watch that seamlessly blended historical influence with daring originality and refined simplicity. Now, nearly 30 years later, under CEO Guido Terreni’s leadership, Parmigiani Fleurier reintroduces the Toric Petite Seconde model with two new versions—the Platinum Golden Hour and the Rose Gold Dune—each limited to just 50 pieces.

With a diameter of 40.6mm and a slim profile of just 8.8mm, the Toric Petite Seconde communicates through its balanced proportions. It is elegant and confident, with curves accentuated by a fluted bezel reminiscent of Doric columns. Yet, Parmigiani avoids the trap of extravagance: while the cases shine, their presence is architectural—balanced, grounded, timeless.

The dials are the true enchantment. Crafted from solid gold and finished by hand using an age-old graining technique revived by Michel, they offer a texture akin to stone smoothed by time. This surface diffuses light, providing a gentle and endearing radiance.

The Rose Gold Dune variant exudes warmth, with its case and dial seamlessly merging into a sand-gold strap that appears to hold sunlight itself. In contrast, the Platinum Golden Hour offers a cooler, contemplative tranquility, with a grey-green strap framing a dial that echoes the first light of day over stone. Neither watch treats color as mere decoration; each is an architectural study, with every tone chosen to reveal the material’s inherent character, carefully considered.

Underneath this calm exterior, the PF780 movement operates with understated sophistication. At just 3.15mm thick and operating at 4Hz, it draws power from twin barrels that maintain a 60-hour power reserve. Its design is intentional: two open-worked bridges in 18k rose gold expose the barrels and regulating organ in an asymmetrical yet perfectly balanced layout.

The finishing is as expressive as the mechanics. Hand-applied Côtes de Fleurier contrasts with sandblasted surfaces, capturing and softening light. Beveled edges, polished steel, and meticulously finished components all reflect the maison’s commitment to integrity over showiness. This is a movement crafted not to impress observers but to engage its wearer in an intimate dialogue with time.

Labeling these timepieces as “dress watches” would undervalue them. With the Toric Petite Seconde first introduced in 2024, Parmigiani Fleurier aimed to redefine what a dress watch could be, softening the rigidity of traditional dress watches, focusing on the tactile interaction with materials, and showcasing the artistry and character in each detail. With these two new models, the maison refines that vision. The brand has elevated how these watches are experienced on the wrist—in their materials, finishing, and their interaction with light. They are crafted not only for wearing but for daily enjoyment by collectors and enthusiasts, revealing new nuances over time and rewarding close attention and long-term ownership.