BVLGARI | 2013 New Watch Releases: Basel On-Site Report

2013 New Watch Releases: Baselworld On-Site Report

The Enduring Icon 'Bulgari Bulgari' Completely Renewed

BulgariWhen one speaks of Bulgari timepieces, "Bulgari Bulgari" immediately comes to mind. Since its debut in 1977, this flagship collection, loved by both men and women through its diverse variations, has undergone a complete renewal this year at "Baselworld". Featuring a modern, sophisticated design and equipped with a completely in-house developed new movement, it represents a further evolution.

Text & Event Photographs by SHIBUYA Yasuhito

Focusing on mechanical models, reasserting its manufacture prowess

Around 2000, Bulgari began acquiring prestigious watch component manufacturers, establishing itself as a true watchmaking brand capable of developing and producing everything from mechanical movements to intricate parts like cases and dials in-house – a "manufacture" system. The culmination of this effort was the 2010 launch of the "Sotirio Bulgari," featuring the brand's first completely in-house movement.

And in 2013, Bulgari has taken another significant step as a dedicated watchmaking brand. The "Bulgari Bulgari" collection, born in 1977 as Bulgari's first wristwatch, has been completely renewed.

The new "Bulgari Bulgari" with a full model change

The completely in-house new movement, "Caliber BVL191"

The "Bulgari Bulgari," with the brand name "BVLGARI" boldly engraved on the bezel, is an absolute icon for the brand. In ancient Rome, emperors proudly inscribed their portraits and names on the coins they issued. Inspired by this tradition, and adopting the case design reminiscent of the elegant, rounded pillars (entasis) found in ancient architecture, this model was born. It is likely the model that everyone thinks of when Bulgari watches are mentioned.

In this year's new releases, the men's models of the Bulgari Bulgari have been reborn as all-mechanical timepieces, centered around the completely in-house new movement, "Caliber BVL191." The lineup consists of three models: a simple three-hand calendar model equipped with the BVL191,chronographmodel, andtourbillonmodel. Notably, this caliber is designed with the premise of functional expansion through added modules, raising expectations for future models with unique complications.

Furthermore, other models also feature designs and functions that reflect Bulgari's distinctive worldview, making them unmissable.

These include a special edition of the "Diagono" collection, featuring an artistic champlevé technique on the dial; the "Bulgari Gerald Genta Commedia dell'Arte," which expresses the world of Italian traditional improvised theater through a minute repeater, automaton, and artistic dial; and the highly anticipated bracelet model of the popular "Bulgari Octo," known for its simple yet commanding presence. A collection of exquisite pieces awaits.

The first ladies' complication watch, the charming "Bulgari Bulgari Tropical Garden Tourbillon"

The beautiful tourbillon model, "Bulgari Bulgari Tropical Garden Tourbillon," is designed for women, but it is sure to captivate any watch enthusiast who appreciates beauty.