We were greeted by some very replica Franck Muller watches impressive looking CNC machines hard at work, transforming discs of gold into highly precise elements of their in-house movements. From here parts go on to be "buffed" by a series of materials ranging from large ceramic pieces down to very fine sand in a process unique to Parmigiani and lending to their overall luster after decoration. Further refinements are made in various stages, each by hand of course, ultimately leading to richly decorated movements boasting such details as chamfered edges and Côtes de Genève.In another part of town, a building devoted to the replica Franck Muller watches dials and restoration efforts awaited us. The dials being produced contained intricate layers, painstakingly pieced together by very steady-handed individuals.
Day two of my Parmigiani-Fleurier tour began early and saw many miles covered. Prior to the manufacturing tours, we stopped into nearby Le Locle to experience the Musée d'Horlogerie, home to many historically significant timepieces. It quickly became apparent that in order to understand the Parmigiani brand, I first needed to understand their history.Not coincidentally, the museum houses the renowned Maurice Yves Sandoz collection, which as it happens, owes its restoration to Michel Parmigiani. These roots in restoring historical clocks and timepieces are very much evident in the modern identity of Parmigiani, though that's a story for another day. A short drive through the breathtaking countryside saw our arrival at the town of Fleurier, Parmigiani's headquarters and home to many of their manufacturing facilities. My small three person group (including the guide) began with the newest of PF's buildings which sees the production and decoration of every piece of every movement they make (some of which end up in replica Franck Muller watches from other very high profile brands).
