Two Japan-Limited Models

BVLGARI launched the "Octo Velocissimo KEN OKUYAMA DESIGN Japan Limited Model" and the "Octo Solotempo KEN OKUYAMA DESIGN Japan Limited Model" in the autumn of 2015, which have already generated significant buzz. The "Octo" is a watch characterized by its geometric beauty, based on an octagon, and is highly praised for its balance of sportiness and elegance. The limited editions add a dial reminiscent of sports car instruments and a striking use of red, symbolizing an eager spirit.

What Matters for BVLGARI Watches

Fabrizio Bonamassa Stigliani (hereinafter Stigliani)I first learned of Ken's (Ken Okuyama's) talent when he was at Carrozzeria Pininfarina in Turin, Italy, and styling Maseratis and Ferraris. I thought that if I were to ask anyone to design the "Octo," it would have to be Ken.

Ken Okuyama (hereinafter Okuyama)Because you thought I understood Italian design? I did live in Turin, and I think I've been exposed to all sorts of Italian culture, both through work and in my personal life. For example, the average Italian man is quite conservative and uninspired in fashion, to the point where they might only wear a navy jacket with a blue shirt (laughs).

Stigliani(Laughs)

OkuyamaBut some people have exceptional taste. They trust their own sense and have suits made to order. While they might not suit anyone else, when they wear them, they look astonishingly good. I've never seen people like that in Japan. I think that's the brilliance of Italy.

StiglianiIt's very important that BVLGARI watches embody the philosophy of Italian craftsmanship.

The Essence of BVLGARI

OkuyamaItaly is known as a country of design, but some might perceive it as emphasizing a more intuitive design compared to countries like Germany. Fashion is a good example, where personal intuition is highly valued. However, in most products, Italian design is very logical, isn't it?

StiglianiYes, we Italians believe that form must always be supported by substance. Our culture has a history of producing magnificent works in architecture, sculpture, and painting since Roman times and the Renaissance. When the field of industrial design was established from the 19th to the early 20th century, Italy lagged slightly behind Britain, Germany, and Northern Europe. However, after World War II, the country made a concerted effort. For instance, Northern European furniture was beginning to dominate the Italian market, causing concern within Italian industry.

OkuyamaWhen I talk with Fabrizio, he places a lot of emphasis on logic. Although BVLGARI's Watch Design Center is in Switzerland, he always says, "Because it's a Roman brand." I once realized what the true essence of BVLGARI is.

The Difference from French and British Products

OkuyamaFrom my perspective, BVLGARI watches are characterized by their powerful yet uniquely Italian elegance. They appear flamboyant at first glance, but are ultimately chic. This is likely what distinguishes them from French or British products. There are products that can only be made in Italy. When I worked on the "Octo Velocissimo KEN OKUYAMA DESIGN Japan Limited Model" and the "Octo Solotempo KEN OKUYAMA DESIGN Japan Limited Model," I was reminded of the character of Italian design.

StiglianiEven when comparing sports cars, there's a difference between Italy and Japan, isn't there? For example, Ferrari and Kode9. Both are cars designed by Ken, but their characters are completely different. Ferrari has an Italian character.

OkuyamaFabrizio contacted me after seeing the Kode9, the two-seater sports model that my company, "KEN OKUYAMA CARS," produces and sells. I don't think the Kode9 is very Italian.

StiglianiOf course, as I mentioned earlier, when Ken was at Pininfarina, I was at the Fiat Design Center, so I highly valued his talent. After that, Ken's career advanced significantly as he worked on furniture and eyewear, making him the perfect candidate to commission for the "Octo" design. That's the key point. It's my personal theory, but designers should inherently be capable of working across various genres.

A Watch for Men That Appeals to the Inner Watch Enthusiast

OkuyamaFabrizio has also done a lot, hasn't he? During his time at Fiat, he worked on cars, but also scooters and furniture. He's a multi-talented individual.



OkuyamaI really liked the "Octo" when it was first released in 2012. While it appears simple at first glance, the meticulous work from the curves to the dial is actually quite complex, in a good way. The fact that these elements are intricately combined without any discordance truly appeals to the inner watch enthusiast. I truly felt it was a watch for men. Therefore, I am very pleased to have had the opportunity to work on variations of the "Octo" this time.

Next, we interview Fabrizio Bonamassa Stigliani about the deep connection between the "Octo" and Italian design.

The Essence of the BVLGARI OCTO
BVLGARI "Octo" Recommended Models This Time

Fabrizio Buonamassa Stigliani
Senior Director, BVLGARI Watch Design Center. Born in Naples, Italy, in 1971. Majored in Industrial Design at the Istituto Superiore per le Industrie Artistiche (ISIA) in Rome. After graduating, joined the Fiat Style Center in Turin, Italy. Moved to BVLGARI's watch design team in 2001. Appointed Director of the BVLGARI Watch Design Center in 2007, continuing to build his career.

Ken Kiyoyuki Okuyama
Industrial Designer / Representative of KEN OKUYAMA DESIGN. Born in Yamagata City in 1959. After working at GM and Porsche, he was appointed Design Director at Pininfarina. He gained attention for his designs of the Ferrari Enzo and Maserati Quattroporte. Since 2007, as the representative of KEN OKUYAMA DESIGN, he has been involved in the development and sales of automobiles, interior products, and eyewear under his own brand. He has also designed Yanmar tractors and Shinkansen bullet trains, garnering significant attention.