Limited Edition 'Bulgari Octo Finissimo Tatsuo Miyajima Japan Limited Model' in Collaboration with Contemporary Artist

BVLGARI

A limited collection of three models where the digital number '8' symbolizes infinity, eternity, and rebirth.

Bulgari has announced three models in the 'Bulgari Octo Finissimo Tatsuo Miyajima Japan Limited Model' collection, a collaboration with internationally acclaimed contemporary artist Tatsuo Miyajima. Limited to 120 pieces each, the automatic models feature titanium or ceramic cases, while a hand-wound model with a minute repeater in a titanium case will be limited to just three pieces, with sales commencing sequentially.

Text by Sayaka Ozaki

An art piece contemplating the 'infinite time' on your wrist.

Bulgari has unveiled the 'Bulgari Octo Finissimo Tatsuo Miyajima Japan Limited Model' collection, a collaboration with internationally acclaimed contemporary artist Tatsuo Miyajima. At the center of the iconic, geometrically octagonal 'Octo' dial, the digital number '8', frequently used in Miyajima's works, is boldly placed. This number is considered a symbol of infinity, eternity, and rebirth in Europe, and an auspicious number in Asia. This creation incorporates '8' as a design symbol, linking it to the concept of 'eternity' central to Miyajima's artistic philosophy, imbuing the simple design with the powerful message of the number itself.

Furthermore, the digital number '8' is composed of seven segments, which can be used to represent all numbers from one to nine. This resonates with Miyajima's three core concepts in his artistic practice: 'It is constantly changing,' 'It relates to everything,' and 'It continues eternally,' which are also reflected in his installations utilizing digital LEDs that change numbers.

Miyajima states, 'It is said that humanity invented 'numbers,' which do not exist in the natural world. By being able to count numbers and distinguish between days like yesterday, tomorrow, or ten days from now, humans finally came to recognize 'time.' In this design, using 'numbers' as a motif, I have placed the 7-segment digital numbers I always use in my work on the dial. These 7-segment digital numbers, while a set of seven parts, can express all numbers from one to nine.'

The minimalist and refined design of the case is also based on the same philosophy as Miyajima's artistic approach.

Three variations are available: automatic models with titanium or ceramic cases, and a hand-wound model with a minute repeater in a titanium case. Particularly noteworthy is the intricate movement visible through the dial, which is cut out to reveal the number '8' on the minute repeater model.

Miyajima further explains, 'In the automatic models, the digital numbers are embossed on a black or gray background. By representing only the form of the numbers without specifying particular digits or colors, viewers are free to imagine the ever-changing numbers. In the minute repeater model, the dial is cut out in the shape of digital numbers, allowing a view of the movement within. I want people to imagine the changing numbers through the direct relationship between the watch's mechanics and the digital digits. In either case, I hope they will contemplate the relationship between these '7-segment digital numbers' and 'time,' and feel the 'infinite time on their wrist.'