While Bulgari chose not to make a formal appearance at this year’s Watches & Wonders event, the renowned Italian luxury jeweler made waves nonetheless with a groundbreaking announcement in Geneva.
Celebrated globally for its impeccably crafted and intricately designed haute horlogerie pieces, Bulgari has consistently pushed the boundaries of watchmaking, particularly in the realm of ultra-thin tourbillons. From the introduction of the Octo Finissimo Tourbillon a decade ago to the recent unveiling of the Octo Finissimo Ultra COSC, the Roman maison has continually surpassed its own achievements, setting eight world records for producing the thinnest wristwatches.
The latest revelation from Bulgari encompasses three distinct configurations of these remarkable timepieces, each boasting a thickness of no more than 1.70mm and proudly housing the thinnest COSC-certified manually wound movement ever created, discreetly nestled within the watch‘s case.
Encased in a 40mm octagonal frame, the Octo Finissimo Ultra COSC is offered in sandblasted titanium or platinum, exuding a timeless monochromatic allure. Bulgari, perhaps in recognition of the watch’s minimalist elegance, has opted for a dial design that eschews conventional embellishments, showcasing an open-worked aesthetic that invites the wearer to marvel at the inner workings.
Peering beyond the seamless grey or sunburst blue dial reveals the marvel of the ultra-thin COSC-certified manual winding movement, the BVL180 caliber, measuring a mere 1.5mm in thickness. This engineering feat not only underscores Bulgari’s meticulous craftsmanship but also underscores its formidable expertise in horology.
Of course, exclusivity and innovation come at a price. Prospective owners seeking to acquire one of the twenty limited-edition pieces of haute horlogerie can expect to invest approximately €620,000 (~$1 million AUD), a testament to the unparalleled artistry and historical significance embodied in this exquisite timepiece.
