WATCH & JEWELRY /
SIHH＆BASEL
March 1, 2016
Bulgari | Geneva New Collection Launch: Live Report | BVLGARI
BVLGARI | Bulgari
Bulgari "Octo" Unveils the Ultimate Black Model (1)
Although not an official participant in SIHH, many brands hold their own new product launch events in Geneva during the SIHH period, coinciding with the Pre-Basel presentations. Bulgari is one such brand, unveiling its latest creations at a city hotel. This article aims to introduce the new and upcoming Bulgari watches, focusing on ladies' models and the dazzling world they represent, incorporating insights from Managing Director Guido Terreni.
Text by KAWADA Akinori
The Allure of Timepieces and Jewelry from a Jeweler
At this Pre-Basel new product launch event, the ladies' collection formed the centerpiece of Bulgari's new offerings.
"We are watchmakers, but also a jewelry brand. The ladies' collection has always been very important to us, and sales of our iconic 'Serpenti' model were exceptionally strong in 2015. With this year's Pre-Basel collection, centered around new 'Serpenti' models, I believe we have once again effectively expressed our brand's identity," says Guido Terreni, Bulgari Watch Managing Director.
The focus of the presentation was on three collections: the "Serpenti," with its powerful, snake-inspired personality; the "Piccola Lucea," a smaller iteration of the beloved "Lucea"; and the "Diva," inspired by mosaic patterns from famous Roman ruins.
For men, the striking black "Octo Ultranero" was unveiled.
"The 'Nero' in the model name means 'black' in Italian. 'Ultranero' could be interpreted as 'ultimate black.' We aim to open up a new world for the 'Octo' through the combination of black and pink gold," explains Terreni.
When asked about new models for Basel, Terreni hinted, "We have many more models in preparation. Particularly for the men's collection, with the revival of the 'Diagono' and other models, new creations are steadily being readied."
Including the anticipated smartwatch developments, these new releases are set to create a significant buzz at Baselworld this spring.
The "Octo" in Black, Enhanced by DLC
The combination model, featuring an 18K pink gold bezel and delivered to the market slightly ahead of schedule, offers a striking contrast with its case color. This also marks the first time a rubber strap is used for the "Octo." Variations with chronographs and tourbillons are planned.
"The 'Octo' has become an iconic collection for Bulgari's men's models. Both its design and mechanism are uniquely Bulgari, representing the brand in every aspect. Moving forward, we intend to further expand the scope of the 'Octo' collection," says Terreni.
Octo Ultranero
Case: Black DLC-coated stainless steel + 18K pink gold bezel
Diameter: 41mm
Thickness: 10.6mm
Movement: Automatic (Solotempo Cal.193)
Functions: Date display
Strap: Rubber
Water Resistance: 100m
Release: Scheduled for April 2016
Estimated Price: ¥1,220,000 (excluding tax)
Contact
Bulgari Japan
Tel. 03-6362-0100
http://www.bulgari.com/ja-jp
Page 02.A New Interpretation of the Snake Motif
BVLGARI | Bulgari
Bulgari "Octo" Unveils the Ultimate Black Model (2)
A New Interpretation of the Snake Motif
One of Bulgari's signature collections is undoubtedly the "Serpenti." As the name suggests, its form is that of a snake. The watch head, shaped like a snake's head, attached to a double or triple wrap metal bracelet, has long symbolized Bulgari's ladies' watches.
This time, the focus is on the new design, the "Serpenti Incantati."
"This design is inspired by a vintage brooch from the 1930s. While previous models depicted a snake coiling around the wrist, this design features the snake encircling the watch case," explains Terreni.
Numerous diamonds are set on the bezel and the metal bracelet, which forms the snake's body, creating a dazzling brilliance. Drawing from Bulgari's rich archives of jewelry, this watch adds a new interpretation to the "Serpenti" collection, enriching its offerings.
Serpenti Incantati
Case: 18K white gold (total of 251 brilliant-cut diamonds set on the case and bracelet, 116 diamonds on the dial)
Diameter: 30mm
Movement: Quartz
Bracelet: 18K white gold
Release: Scheduled for July 2016
Estimated Price: ¥9,650,000 (excluding tax)
Contact
Bulgari Japan
Tel. 03-6362-0100
http://www.bulgari.com/ja-jp
Page 03.Pursuing a More Delicate Style
BVLGARI | Bulgari
Bulgari "Octo" Unveils the Ultimate Black Model (3)
Pursuing a More Delicate Style
The "Lucea" collection was newly introduced as a ladies' model last year. Its distinctive bracelet, composed of trapezoidal link parts, is unique and perfectly embodies femininity. The collection primarily features case sizes of 28mm and 33mm.
"Regarding ladies' models, there's a growing demand for smaller sizes. For the 'Lucea,' we've introduced a 23mm case, previously only available for some high-jewelry versions. We decided to add 'Piccola,' meaning 'small' or 'cute,' to the model name," says Terreni.
Even a few millimeters can significantly alter the perceived size of a wristwatch. The difference in size compared to previous cases is quite apparent. With its mother-of-pearl dial, small diamond hour markers, and a crown adorned with a pink cabochon stone, the watch features lovely details. The size is also perfect for Japanese women.
Piccola Lucea
Case: 18K pink gold
Diameter: 23mm
Movement: Quartz
Bracelet: 18K pink gold
Water Resistance: 3 bar
Release: Scheduled for July 2016
Estimated Price: ¥2,680,000 (excluding tax)
Contact
Bulgari Japan
Tel. 03-6362-0100
http://www.bulgari.com/ja-jp
Page 04.Using Acetate for the Dial Material
BVLGARI | Bulgari
Bulgari "Octo" Unveils the Ultimate Black Model (4)
The "Diva" with an Acetate Dial
"The design of the 'Diva,' newly established as a collection, draws inspiration from the mosaic patterns of the Baths of Caracalla, a Roman ruin. The dial utilizes acetate, a material known for its beautiful circular and intricate mosaic decorations," explains Terreni.
Acetate is a synthetic resin derived from plant fibers, an organic material made from natural cotton and wood fibers. Traditionally used for eyeglass frames and fountain pen bodies, it allows for the creation of various decorative patterns by layering colors, not just solid black. When thoroughly polished, its surface becomes exceptionally smooth, achieving a high gloss.
Indeed, looking at the "Diva" dial, with its beautiful glossy anthracite color and irregular light-colored lines, one might wonder about the material used if unfamiliar with acetate. Its unique properties create an intriguing visual effect.
Furthermore, the shape of the strap attachment is distinctive. Like the bezel, it is set with small diamonds, creating a rich, jewelry-like aesthetic. The overall watch exudes a dreamlike atmosphere, perfectly embodying the femininity suggested by its name, "Diva."
Diva
Case: 18K white gold (with 78 brilliant-cut diamonds)
Diameter: 30mm
Movement: Quartz
Strap: Satin
Water Resistance: 3 bar
Release: Scheduled for May 2016
Estimated Price: ¥2,070,000 (excluding tax)
Contact
Bulgari Japan
Tel. 03-6362-0100
http://www.bulgari.com/ja-jp