The inspiration for this project stems from a journey undertaken by Guido Terreni in the northern region of Italy—a voyage not only to explore Michel Parmigiani's origins but also to revel in the architectural wonders of the area. Among the places visited was the Palazzo Te in Mantua, strategically positioned at the crossroads of Milan, Genoa, and Venice. This Renaissance-era royal palace, adorned with meticulous handcraftsmanship of its time, left a lasting impression. The Hall of Giants within the Palazzo Te, in particular, resonated with echoes of Michel Parmigiani's passions, embracing elements such as the Renaissance, architecture, nature, and the Golden ratio. Thus, it felt instinctive to breathe life into these influences, moving beyond their original two-dimensional expressions. In the creation of the extraordinary pocket watch case, each detail underwent a thoughtful reimagining in a three-dimensional reinterpretation.
The timepiece itself is a genuine work of art, meticulously crafted with care and attention. Michel Parmigiani, ever appreciative of exceptional craftsmanship, surrounded himself with artisans traditionally referred to as “Mains d’Or” or “Golden Hands” in the industry. These skilled “Maitre” craftsmen devoted their expertise to bring L’Armoriale to life. Each artisan specialized in distinct crafts, including the intricate engraving of the case, the delicate enamel work on the backcase, the meticulous crafting of the chain, and more.
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