Watchout: Parmigiani Fleurier Bugatti Aerolithe

There have been a number of car-inspired watches over the years, but few can claim to be as authentic or as stylish, as the Parmigiani Fleurier Bugatti Aerolithe. Inspired by, you guessed it, the Bugatti Aerolithe from 1935, this is a watch that manages to perfectly blend the old with the new, combining classically graceful looks with a thoroughly modern aesthetic.

The sweeping, streamlined design of Bugatti’s classic car has been wonderfully captured in the unique design of the watch’s case. The chronograph pushers have been incorporated into the lugs, giving the watch a slimmer silhouette, as opposed to regular chronographs, which tend to be on the chunkier side. The pushers themselves are also shaped like the fenders of the Aerolithe, but the references don’t end there.

The watch is finished in a striking abyss blue, which is accented by iconic Bugatti red, and the buckle features a highly detailed rendition of Bugatti’s signature car grille, but it remains subtle enough not to detract from the refined nature of the timepiece.

Just as attractive as the watch’s case, is its face, which boasts a symmetric beauty that both horology and automotive enthusiasts can appreciate. The chronograph dials sit directly opposite each other in the centre of the watch, in a way that is somewhat reminiscent of a motorcar’s dashboard. The large split-date sits just below the Bugatti logo too, setting off the sun-blushed blue of the dial perfectly.

Too many watch brands over-do the collaborative element of watch design, but Parmigiani have really nailed it here, combining a number of subtle references with a classic sporty design that will be appreciated whether you’re a petrolhead or not.

For more information, visit Parmigiani’s website by clicking here.