Bulgari celebrates the 10th anniversary of the iconic Octo collection with new additions to the Octo Finissimo range in gold.
The Octo Finissimo is a legend in contemporary fine watchmaking. Since its first launch in 2014, this sleek work of watchmaking art has attained iconic status thanks to its distinctive shape inspired by a key motif in the architectural heritage of ancient Rome, and for having set eight world records for its finesse – covering chronometric, acoustic and astronomical complications. Born to push limits, the range explores ultra-miniaturisation and manifests a modern, understated masculine interpretation that encapsulates Bulgari’s dual identity: Swiss watchmaking rigour and incomparable Italian style.
This year, as the Octo collection crosses the 10-year mark, the Octo Finissimo in gold makes a grand comeback in four impressive iterations.
Octo Finissimo Chronograph GMT Automatic – 103468
Elegance is the signature of the Octo Finissimo Chronograph GMT Automatic; the outstanding automatic GMT chronograph launched in 2019 at a world-record thinness of just 3.3 mm, and remains to this day the slimmest mechanical chronograph ever made. The latest reinterpretation is presented as an ultra-thin 43mm satin-brushed rose gold case paired with a subtle brown-lacquered dial and fitted with a brown alligator leather strap secured by a folding clasp. Controlled by pushers on either side of the case, the chronograph and GMT functions are driven by BVL Calibre 318, an integrated automatic Manufacture movement, with a 55-hour power reserve.
Octo Finissimo Automatic – 103637 & Octo Finissimo Automatic Limited Edition – 103717
The new rendition of the Octo Finissimo Automatic embodies the two signature features consistent with the Octo Finissimo collection – purity and restraint. Gleaming in 18K rose or yellow gold, the powerful presence of the watch comes from its play on contrasts between these shades of gold and the understated brown-lacquered dial with sunray finishing, along with the alternating matte and polished effects on the case and bracelet, a first in the Finissimo line.
Housed under a 40mm satin-brushed gold case is the optimised self-winding Manufacture movement, BVL Calibre 138 with its 208 components and 31 jewels. Retaining its record slimness of 2.23 mm, the Octo Finissimo Automatic also features a new automatic winding system that introduces a closed barrel and a new structure for the escapement and balance.
The 18K rose gold model is part of the regular collection, while the yellow gold version is a limited edition of 50 pieces available only in the United States, to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the first Bulgari boutique opened there.
Octo Finissimo Skeleton 8 Days
Exemplifying the quintessence of the Octo spirit, the Octo Finissimo Skeleton 8 Days brings together the best of design and technology. Its sculptural new Manufacture movement plays on contrasts for perfect legibility, and runs on the extra-fine calibre BVL 199 SK with an impressive 8-day power reserve – a new landmark in the Octo Finissimo history.
Modern and architectural, the strong geometric lines of the model amplify the beauty brought about by contrasts in material and transparency; powerful lines and lightness; gold hour-markers on a sand-blasted matte anthracite structure and the gauge-shaped indicator embracing the curvature of the small seconds counter at 7:30. The 40mm satin-finished pink gold case with a thickness of 5.95 mm, is fitted with a sapphire back and unfolds on a brown alligator strap with a pin buckle.
Bulgari’s “Unexpected Wonders”
Along with the impressive new additions to the Bulgari watch collection, Roman watchmaker also unveiled its latest “Unexpected Wonders” campaign shot in the Italian capital, featuring the iconic Octo timepieces and global watch ambassador, Lorenzo Viotti, chief conductor-designate of the Netherlands Philharmonic Orchestra as the protagonist.
Born in Lausanne in 1990 from an Italian family, the French-Swiss conductor perfectly personifies Bulgari’s constant search for excellence and its unique balance of passion for the heritage and desire to break new grounds. Inspired by Viotti’s ability to modulate sounds with his hands and facial expressions, the “Unexpected Wonders” campaign is an invitation to take the lead in crafting our time and writing our own symphony.
Images courtesy of Bulgari, artwork by Curatedition. All rights reserved.
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