In a convergence of Swiss high watchmaking and American collegiate heritage, Parmigiani Fleurier has partnered with The Forty First Foundation to introduce a highly exclusive series of timepieces. The Tonda PF Sport Chronograph Longhorn Limited Edition honors the legacy and spirit of The University of Texas at Austin, translating the institution's identity into the language of mechanical precision and refined design. This collaboration yields two distinct models, one in stainless steel and another in 18-karat rose gold, both imbued with subtle yet unmistakable nods to the celebrated Texas Longhorns.
The foundation of Parmigiani Fleurier rests upon the life's work of its founder, Michel Parmigiani. Before establishing his own brand in 1996, Parmigiani was a world-renowned master watchmaker and restorer, entrusted with the revival of priceless historical horological artifacts. This deep-seated knowledge of classical watchmaking principles informs every creation that bears his name. His philosophy was never to mass-produce, but to perpetuate the mechanical arts through a wholly independent and integrated manufacture, where every component, from the smallest screw to the oscillating weight, is crafted with an ideal balance of aesthetics and function.
Courtesy of Parmigiani Fleurier
This dedication to self-sufficiency is what defines a true manufacture d'horlogerie. Parmigiani Fleurier embodies this concept, controlling the entire production process within its own facilities. This vertical integration allows for an uncompromising approach to quality and design, ensuring that the vision for each timepiece is executed flawlessly from initial concept to final assembly. It is a level of craftsmanship sought by enthusiasts who appreciate the intricate details and the profound expertise required to create a watch where every element works in perfect harmony.
The Tonda PF collection, within which this new limited edition resides, represents a particular aesthetic for the brand. It is characterized by a sartorial approach to watch design, focusing on subtlety, proportion, and texture. The watches are not ostentatious but are designed for a discerning individual who recognizes true refinement. The collection's signature elements, such as the knurled bezel and the fluid, integrated bracelet, create a cohesive and distinctive look that is both sporty and sophisticated.
At the heart of this collaboration is The University of Texas at Austin, an institution with a rich history and a powerful identity. The Texas Longhorn is more than a mascot; it is a symbol of strength and pride recognized across the nation. Equally iconic is the university's official color, Burnt Orange, a unique hue that evokes the Texan landscape and is inextricably linked to the school's spirit and athletic triumphs. These core symbols serve as the foundational inspiration for the limited-edition timepieces.
Driving the philanthropic aspect of this partnership is The Forty First Foundation. The organization's name is a direct reference to the "41st Acre," the symbolic heart of the UT Austin campus where the iconic UT Tower stands. The foundation's mission is to support and advance the university's pursuit of excellence by funding strategic initiatives. Proceeds from the sale of the Longhorn chronographs will directly benefit student-focused programs, including campus food banks and pantries, as well as support for the arts and other vital community initiatives throughout Austin, making each watch a contributor to the university's future.
Courtesy of Parmigiani Fleurier
The Longhorn edition is presented in two distinct material variations, each offering a different personality while sharing the same design DNA. The first is a robust yet polished stainless steel model, limited to just 40 pieces. The second, a more opulent version, is crafted from 18-karat rose gold and is even more exclusive, with a production run of only 10 pieces. Both watches are built upon the Tonda PF Sport's 42 mm case, a size that provides a commanding presence on the wrist without sacrificing comfort.
A close examination of the case reveals the meticulous finishing that is a hallmark of Parmigiani Fleurier. The surfaces exhibit a dynamic interplay between polished and satin-finished areas, creating a visual depth that catches the light in fascinating ways. The most defining feature of the case is the finely knurled bezel, a signature of the Tonda PF line. This delicate texture provides a tactile and visual counterpoint to the smooth lines of the case body. For this special edition, the case profile at the 9 o'clock position features a discreet yet definitive engraving of the Texas Longhorn logo, a quiet tribute to the university's pride.
The dial is where the collaboration's spirit truly comes to life. A base of silver is adorned with a clou triangulaire guilloché pattern, a fine, intricate texture that adds dimension and complexity. Contrasting against this textured background are three medium gray sub-dials for the chronograph functions, arranged in a classic 3-6-9 configuration. This two-tone layout provides excellent legibility and a balanced, sporty aesthetic.
The most striking details on the dial are the deliberate applications of Burnt Orange. This specific color, so central to the UT Austin identity, is used for the luminescent coating on the skeletonized delta-shaped hands and the hand-applied hour markers. The numerals within the chronograph sub-dials are also rendered in this iconic orange, as is the numeral on the date wheel, visible through a small aperture at 4:30. These accents are not overwhelming but provide a distinct character that immediately connects the watch to its inspiration.
Courtesy of Parmigiani Fleurier
Powering this limited-edition chronograph is the Caliber PF070, an in-house, COSC-certified automatic movement. This is not a simple modular chronograph but a fully integrated design, meaning the chronograph complication was engineered as part of the movement from the ground up. This approach is more complex and costly to develop but results in a more reliable, efficient, and technically superior mechanism. The architecture of the movement itself is a testament to the brand’s technical prowess.
A key performance feature of the PF070 is its high-frequency escapement, which beats at 36,000 vibrations per hour (5 Hz). This rapid oscillation allows the chronograph's central seconds hand to move in precise 1/10th of a second increments, enabling highly accurate time measurement. For the wearer, it also translates to a visibly smoother sweep of the hand across the dial. Despite this high energy consumption, the movement provides a substantial power reserve of 65 hours.
Flipping the watch over reveals the beauty of the caliber through an anti-reflective sapphire crystal case back. The movement is extensively decorated with satin-finished open-worked bridges and meticulously beveled edges. The focal point of the exhibition back is the skeletonized oscillating weight, crafted from 22-karat rose gold. Its polished and sandblasted surfaces catch the light beautifully as it spins, winding the mainspring. The case back is engraved with essential information, including the serial number and the limited-edition designation, confirming the watch's exclusivity.
Both the stainless steel and rose gold models are fitted with integrated bracelets that flow seamlessly from the lugs, a core design principle of the Tonda PF. The bracelet links are designed for maximum comfort and articulation, conforming to the wrist with a supple feel. The finish of the bracelet mirrors that of the case, with a combination of brushed and polished surfaces that enhance its sophisticated character.
Courtesy of Parmigiani Fleurier
Recognizing the desire for versatility, Parmigiani Fleurier includes two additional straps with each watch. These hand-stitched rubber straps are offered in colors exclusive to this Longhorn edition: a neutral Tufo and a vibrant Burnt Orange. These straps fundamentally alter the watch's appearance, allowing the owner to switch from the integrated bracelet's refined look to a more casual, overtly sporty style. The steel model comes with a stainless steel folding clasp for the straps, while the rose gold version is accompanied by a matching 18-karat rose gold clasp.
The steel version of the Tonda PF Sport Chronograph Longhorn is designated as a limited edition of 40 pieces worldwide. Its rhodium-plated 18-karat gold indices and skeletonized hands provide a cool, monochromatic contrast to the dial, allowing the Burnt Orange accents to stand out with exceptional clarity. With a screw-down crown and a water resistance of 100 meters, it is a capable and versatile timepiece ready for daily wear.
The rose gold model, limited to an extremely rare 10 pieces, offers a warmer and more luxurious presence. The 18-karat rose gold case, bezel, and bracelet exude a rich hue that pairs exceptionally well with the Burnt Orange details. The hand-applied indices and delta-shaped hands are also crafted from 18-karat rose gold to match the case, creating a harmonious and cohesive design. It shares the same technical specifications and 100-meter water resistance as its steel counterpart.
This collaboration is more than an exercise in co-branding; it is a thoughtfully executed project that merges two distinct worlds. It combines the meticulous, centuries-old traditions of Swiss horology with the passionate, deeply rooted spirit of a major American university. The result is a timepiece that will resonate strongly with alumni, collectors, and watch enthusiasts who appreciate unique, story-driven creations.
Courtesy of Parmigiani Fleurier
As Gustavo Calzadilla, Managing Director at Parmigiani Fleurier Americas, noted, the collaboration is an honor that combines the brand's watchmaking expertise with a meaningful design that connects to the Longhorn community. Josh Alexander of the Forty First Foundation echoed this sentiment, expressing excitement for the project's ability to commemorate the spirit of Texas while supporting important campus programs.
The Tonda PF Sport Chronograph Longhorn Limited Edition is available for order directly through The Forty First Foundation, with pricing available upon request. Deliveries are scheduled to begin on a date of particular significance: November 28, 2025, the day of the highly anticipated football game between the University of Texas and their rivals, the Texas A&M Aggies. This timing adds another layer of narrative to a watch that is already rich with history, purpose, and pride.
Case: 42 mm diameter, 12.9 mm thickness, polished and satin-finished stainless steel or 18ct rose gold with a knurled bezel, screw-down crown, anti-reflective sapphire crystal, sapphire case back, 100 m water resistance, Texas Longhorn logo engraved on the case profile.
Movement: Caliber PF070, COSC-certified automatic integrated chronograph, 36,000 Vph (5 Hz), 65-hour power reserve, 315 components, 42 jewels, 22ct rose gold skeletonized rotor.
Dial: Silver with a clou triangulaire guilloché finish, medium gray counters, hand-applied 18ct gold indices, skeletonized delta-shaped hands, Burnt Orange Super-LumiNova, numerals, and date.
Strap: Integrated bracelet in either stainless steel or 18ct rose gold with a folding clasp. Includes two additional hand-stitched rubber straps in exclusive Tufo and Burnt Orange colors.
Price: Price upon request.
Reference Number: PFS931-1020001-100182 (Steel), PFS931-2020001-200182 (Rose Gold).
Notes: A limited edition of 40 pieces in steel and 10 in rose gold created in collaboration with The Forty First Foundation to honor The University of Texas at Austin. Proceeds from sales support student-focused initiatives and community projects.