Key Features
The bizarre Pirofa ‘Baschmakoff’ digi-mech, very far from the sort of watch that you’re used to seeing! It comes from 70’s ‘electronic/digital’ era, when classical mechanical brands were competing with electronic watches and developing these kind of mechanical timepieces with digital display complications.
Fun fact – 99% of those advanced electronic digital watches are now dead and non-repairable, due to the degradation of the integrated electronic components. However, the horological digi-mech creations are still alive and running, and with regular servicing will continue to be and to do so for 100+ years.
This unusual case design is called ‘De Baschmakoff‘, designed by Francois de Baschmakoff, the French artist, known for his collaborations with the LIP watchmaking company. The case design is a long, sleek rectangular shape with crescent hour and minute windows positioned to the left of the dial.
Although the strap is quite wide, and the case size at only 34.5 mm, this design of the large strap and small sleek case was the intention of its creator, to achieve a timepiece totally different from anything made before.
About Pirofa
Pirofa is an upper-mid class quality French brand. The name Pirofa was formed from the names of the company founders, Pierre and Robert Fontaine.
Servicing and Guarantee
This timepiece has been serviced with full disassembly in our Bristol workshop. There is a 12-month guarantee, subject to the usage and care guidelines. Comes with an unusual, original soft plastic waterproof strap, although an alternative modern strap is provided as well.
Overview
Case and Strap
- Original, long rectangular case.
- Chrome-plated.
- Specially shaped, acrylic glass.
- Screw stainless steel caseback.
- Crown with pull-out function.
Dimensions:
- Width w/o crown 34.5 mm.
- Width w/crown 37 mm.
- Height 33.5 mm.
- Thickness 12 mm.
- Strap width 28 mm.
Dial and Hands
- Original red-tone dial.
- Crescent overlapping digital display minute and jumping hour.
- ‘Pirofa’ signature.
Movement
- French-made movement.
- FE 4611 (Cupillard) caliber.
- 17 jewels.
- Automatic.
- Polished plates, bridges, wheels and screws.
Testing Results
- Testing duration: 2 weeks cyclic test.
- Average timekeeping range: 10-15 sec/day.
Servicing and Guarantee
- Fully serviced with disassembly in our Bristol shop.
- Mechanics in full working order.
- Choice between an original or new strap.
- 12-month guarantee.
- Guarantee Terms and Conditions.
Links and Resources:
