TWENTY-FOUR HOURS IN PARMA

Twice each year, the world’s foremost watch dealers and collectors descend upon the Italian city of Parma. Famous for its incredible epicurean delights including Parma ham, Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and stuffed tortelli pasta, Parma is situated in the north of the country in the region of Emilia-Romagna. On the outskirts of the city lies a series of large, hangar-like halls that each spring and autumn host the Mercanteinfiera Parma. The event is vast and covers a huge array of stalls from every corner of the collecting world. Classic cars, vintage Louis Vuitton trunks, neon lights, vintage clothing, militaria… whatever you are into, there will be an area of the fair to interest you. However, for the lover of horology, of all shapes and sizes, the south-west side of Hall 6 is the ultimate destination.

I arrived in Parma (via Milan) mid-evening on a Thursday and headed straight to a