Founded in 1996 by Michel Parmigiani, thanks to the support of the Sandoz Family Foundation, Parmigiani Fleurier has quickly become one of the quiet giants of exquisite Swiss watchmaking. Thanks to their connection to the Sandoz family, Parmigiani Fleurier has been able to draw from technical resources that rival those of the biggest brands in the business. With access to Vaucher Manufacture, suppliers of movements to Richard Mille, Hermes, and other powerhouse brands, Parmigiani Fleurier certainly has the watchmaking heft behind them to perform just as well on the international stage as anyone else, even if their name isnt as recognisable as some others. Offered here, we have the Parmigiani Fleurier Basica. Featuring an elegant 37mm 18kt white gold case with a domed bezel that sweeps down into a domed midcase, the Basica’s construction is immediately classical and refined. Boasting a bright white dial with painted Breguet numerals at the 12, 6, and 9 o’clock hour markers with a recessed date aperture at 3 o’clock, the Basica’s clean display is free from any major disturbances, which lends itself to the overarching mid-century-inspired aesthetic that the entire watch lends itself to.

The watch is in very good overall condition. The white gold case has some scratches and a couple of nicks on the lugs. The hallmarks remain well-defined. The display case back is very good, with clear engravings around the edge. The white dial is pristine, with very clean blued hands. The watch is fitted with a Hodinkee leather strap and a Parmigiani Fleurier white gold buckle, both in very good condition. Please note that the watch ticks at time of cataloging, but timekeeping is poor and a service is recommended.

A mid-century-inspired dress watch from the early 2000s, the Basica showcases the effort that Parmigiani Fleuier made early within the brand's history to establish an overarching aesthetic and design language.