Skip to content
The Encyclopedia of Horology

Wristwatch · Quartz wristwatch

Swatch 'Farfalla' Wristwatch

Partially verified

The Swatch 'Farfalla' is a quartz-movement wristwatch manufactured in 1994 by Swatch SA in Switzerland. Released as part of the Pop Swatch range, the watch features a clear acrylic case and a distinctive elasticated fabric band decorated with a multi-colored butterfly pattern in shades of red and purple. The dial continues the thematic butterfly motif. This example is catalogued as part of a series of 91 Swatch watches acquired from the spring/summer 1994 collection. Designed as an accessible alternative to traditional mechanical timepieces, the watch emphasizes casual wearability and seasonal design. The case back bears stamps identifying the watch as part of the Pop Swatch product line.

The 'Farfalla' Swatch wristwatch shown with its elasticized fabric strap and acrylic case.
The 'Farfalla' Swatch wristwatch shown with its elasticized fabric strap and acrylic case. — Museums Victoria. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
collections.museumsvictoria.com.au
Category
Wristwatch · Quartz wristwatch
Maker / attribution
Swatch SA
Reference
PWV 101
Catalogue / lot identifier
ST 42059
Source-reported date
1994
Source-reported place
Switzerland

Source-reported attribution and specifications are not independent authentication. A listing does not establish present ownership, current display, availability or permission to reproduce.

Object description

Design and Appearance

The 'Farfalla' model belongs to the Pop Swatch collection, characterized by a distinct approach to material and graphic design. The watch utilizes a clear acrylic housing, which serves as a frame for both the dial and the attachment points for the wristband. The visual identity is defined by a butterfly theme, with the dial face and the elasticized fabric strap both featuring a coordinated, multi-colored pattern dominated by red and purple tones.

The strap is designed as an elastic loop rather than a traditional buckled bracelet, reflecting the functional style associated with the Pop Swatch range. The aesthetic is explicitly intended to serve as a fashion-forward, secondary timepiece, contrasting with traditional mechanical watches prevalent during the period of its production in the mid-1990s.

Evidence for this section
  • “Clear acrylic case, face and elastic band with butterfly pattern, mainly red & purple.”
  • “One of Pop Swatch range.”

Technical Specifications and Markings

The watch is powered by a quartz movement, consistent with the technological focus of Swatch at the time of its 1994 production. The assembly is housed within the clear plastic case, which is identifiable through specific markings on the reverse. The case back features stamped inscriptions, specifically the number '3' and the trade name 'Popswatch', verifying its membership in the specific product line.

The item comes with its original accompanying documentation and storage. The box itself is marked with the 'Pop Swatch' branding and the designation 'Swiss Made', confirming the manufacturer's stated origin.

Evidence for this section
  • “Quartz movement.”
  • “Rear of case stamped '3' & 'Popswatch'.”
  • “In plastic box with warranty & instructions.”

Acquisition and Context

This object is part of a larger institutional collection, representing one of 91 Swatch watches purchased by the museum from the brand's spring/summer 1994 collection. The acquisition serves as documentation of the company's design output during a period when the brand sought to offer innovative, affordable alternatives to the mechanical watch market.

The model 'Farfalla' (PWV 101) serves as an example of the manufacturer's strategy to produce watches that were treated as seasonal accessories rather than permanent, heirloom-quality goods. The inclusion of the original packaging provides a complete record of the product's retail presentation at the time of its initial distribution.

Evidence for this section
  • “One of 91 Swatch watches purchased from the Swatch spring/summer 1994 collection.”
  • “Swatch decided to come up with an affordable and innovative alternative”
  • “Something that could be enjoyed, reflect a mood or time in one's life then be disposed of or replaced.”

Open research questions

  • Are there known variations of the 'Farfalla' butterfly pattern across different production runs?
  • What is the significance of the stamped number '3' on the case back in relation to assembly or batch tracking?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Swatch 'Farfalla' Wristwatch
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
ManufacturerSwatch SA“Manufacturer, name: Swatch SA”
ReferencePWV 101“Quartz wrist watch, 'Farfalla', PWV 101”
Registration NumberST 42059“Registration number: ST 42059”
MovementQuartz“Quartz movement.”
Case MaterialClear acrylic“Clear acrylic case”
InscriptionRear of case stamped '3' & 'Popswatch'“Rear of case stamped '3' & 'Popswatch'.”

Visible details

  • Elastic band features a repeating butterfly pattern
  • Dial graphic coordinates with the band design
  • Clear acrylic case reveals the internal quartz movement
  • Includes the original plastic Pop Swatch branded box

Research qualifications

  • The source attributes the watch to a specific 1994 collection, but specific manufacturing month is unverified
  • The long-term durability of the original elastic band is not documented in the source

Photograph identity and source facts were screened before import; rights clearance remains pending.

Consulted source

Wrist Watch - Swatch, 'Farfalla', Switzerland, 1994

Reviewed 2026-10-26 · Record e1b25ce666

Terms in this record

Glossary explanations for terms named in this object’s record.

Other quartz wristwatch records