THE POWER OF A COMPELLING PARTNERSHIP

The meeting between Parmigiani Fleurier and Bugatti took place in 2001. The extraordinary car manufacturer based in Molsheim, Alsace (France), was open to the idea of forming a strong partnership with a watch brand. But this brand would have to meet an exceptional set of specifications, where technical and artistic excellence are on an equal footing with an acute sense of design. Most importantly, it could only be an independent manufacture, the necessary guarantee of utterly unfettered potential of expression.

Given the sheer scope of its sources of inspiration, its restoration of historical masterpieces, its fundamental research, and its multi-disciplinary watchmaking centre that guarantees fine craftsmanship and creative freedom, Parmigiani Fleurier proved the perfect fit.

RESPECT AND RECIPROCITY

Formalised in 2004, the partnership is based on mutual respect. Ultra-visionary mechanical genius Ettore Bugatti still commands genuine and inspiring fascination to this day. Born in Italy, just like Michel Parmigiani, the two men share a common vision of powerful, architectural beauty. For both of them, creation results from a genuine intellectual approach.

Bugatti gave Parmigiani Fleurier carte blanche to invent the stuff of dreams, using sophisticated materials often unseen in the automotive industry and on a scale that fills the car manufacturer with admiration. From sketches to photos of tools specially designed for each project, there is constant reciprocity.

A COLLECTION OF HOROLOGICAL OBJECTS

The Bugatti collection is inspired first and foremost by the spirit of the Molsheim-based brand. The collection began with a world first in the form of the Bugatti type 370, which started a revolution with its stepped movement. The piece set the benchmark for the future models that would be tasked with embodying this exceptional partnership.

Fixed to the wrist of a test driver and launched forward at 431 km/h, the Bugatti Super Sport was unveiled in 2010. It adopts the five main plate construction of the Bugatti 370, but rather than a transverse succession, its structure is stepped so as to fit the spiral shape of the case. Its dynamometric crown is particularly complex. Last but not least, the 90° time display also constitutes a world first.

To celebrate the tenth anniversary of its partnership with Bugatti, Parmigiani Fleurier unveiled three Anniversary editions, which included the Bugatti Mythe, which incorporates a maximum of automotive codes. Its aesthetics are inspired by the emblematic type 57 grille, which presents a structure formed of lines rather than mesh, unlike the grilles that followed. The Art Deco colours of the dial are a further nod to the first creations of the Molsheim-based manufacturer.

Now more than ever, the brands have room to dream. With the Bugatti Aérolithe Performance, Parmigiani Fleurier wanted to create a case made entirely from titanium. This high-tech piece required laser technology to apply finishes beyond the capability of conventional machining. The world of high- speed pursuits can be seen in the abundance of details, such as the double tachymeter, which has km/h indications in red and mph in blue. The reminder of the Bugatti's current performances engraved on the bezel adds to the fantasy surrounding the car, whose maximum speed remains unknown to this day for lack of a suitable track.

A PERFECT PAIRING

In the beginning was the engine, as is always the case, both at Bugatti and Parmigiani Fleurier. The engine (or the watch's movement), is the centre of attention. Its technical complexity measures up to the objectives scrupulously set by the car manufacturer and the Haute Horlogerie Manufacture.

A blank canvas is the by-product of innovation. In starting from almost nothing, the door is left wide open for imaginative solutions. Both in Molsheim and Fleurier, the best minds work flat out to break new ground. Team Bugatti or team Parmigiani, it's a community – of engineers, technicians, experts and master artisans – that gives rise to radical concepts.

Performance. Bugatti have long been in pole position, amassing countless victories at races. The excellence of their engines, chassis and road handling is widely acclaimed. No other car incorporates as much power or speed. The performance of the watches is just as remarkable, be it an ultra-thin or 30-second tourbillon, a model with a 90° display or a Pantograph with telescopic hands.

Technology, innovation and performance create the framework for the design. If it is spectacular, and occasionally so extraordinary that it leaves a lasting mark on the collective imagination, it is only because the starting criteria were too. Each creation embodies the identity of its brand, its power of expression, and its instantly recognisable codes. It is a tour de force for a timepiece to combine the spirit of two brands – and this feat is responsible for the unique character of the Bugatti collection.