Parmigiani Fleurier has just released a new addition to their Kalpa collection: the Parmigiani Kalpa XL Hebdomadaire watch with an 8-day power reserve in a rose gold case. This latest iteration gives a new twist to the Parmigiani Kalpa XL Hebdomadaire Anniversaire version we recently covered hands-on here. Notably, it takes a more “mainstream” approach of offering a gold-cased watch, whereas the Anniversaire took the “stealth wealth” approach of adding a gold movement inside a steel watch.
Parmigiani intends for the Kalpa collection to receive significant focus in 2017. For this version of the Parmigiani Kalpa XL Hebdomadaire, the 18ct rose gold case with its refined 37.2mm-wide, 44.7mm-tall proportions complement well the distinctive tonneau-shape and teardrop-style lugs the collection is known for. What’s interesting about this material choice is the contrast that results between the rose gold and the silvered yellow 12-sector flinqué engraving that achieves the outer dial’s texture. It’s a unique color scheme for the collection and vastly different from the existing black and gold dial found on the previous version.
Now, no mention of the Parmigiani Kalpa Hebdomadaire would be complete without discussing the brand’s flagship PF 110 hand-wound movement. It operates at 3Hz (21,600bph), features a proprietary double-barrel system, and ensures a steady eight days of power reserve. Parmigiani continues to demonstrate their dedication to meticulous finishing with a range of techniques and design touches including deep Côtes de Genève decoration, hand-beveled bridges, and repeated semi-circular bridge formations. These design choices along with the swan-neck regulator on the balance are also indicative of the brand’s commitment to producing a robust movement that is both practical and visually inspiring.
The dial layout of the Kalpa XL Hebdomadaire remains unchanged, as it offers a great degree of visual balance and high legibility. It features solid gold indices, delta-shaped hands with luminescent coating, an open date window, and sunray “guilloché” exterior. Functions like the power-reserve indicator and small seconds display are well-proportioned and carefully placed to minimize disruption. We should also mention that the dial color is a perfect match for the included Hermès alligator strap with ardillon buckle.
Parmigiani claims that 2017 will be a big year with several new refinements and designs in the pipeline. The Parmigiani Kalpa XL Hebdomadaire in 18ct rose gold marks a great starting point and it will be interesting to see just how much of a role the evolving collection plays as the brand continues to grow. It’s certainly a vibrant look and manages to capture Parmigiani’s commitment to both tradition and modern design. parmigiani.com
Keep up with all our pre-, post-, and live SIHH 2017 coverage here and on your favorite social media channels with #SIHHABTW!