Competitive Spirit: Bulgari New Diagono Watches - Men's Folio
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Competitive Spirit: Bulgari New Diagono Watches

  • By Yong Wei Jian

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The emphasis on competition and athletic achievement in Greek culture was related to the ideal of individual excellence, and it is this mentality that informs the nature of Bulgari’s Diagono. The collection’s name even has its roots in the Ancient Greek word “agôn”, which covers all forms of competition. But more than physical prowess, it’s about the elegance of execution, embodied by Myron’s Discobolus, in which a sleekly muscular body is captured in stasis just before the release of the discus. Inspired by the interplay between power and grace, Diagono watches aspire to be both athletes and aesthetes alike.

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Through its many sporting endeavours, the collection regularly combines high-tech materials for strength and endurance. The Diagono Magnesium Chronograph is a contemporary exemplar, showcasing the namesake element alongside three resolutely technical ones. Durable and lightweight magnesium forms the centre of the 42.5mm case, protected by PEEK guards (an advanced polymer used in space and aircrafts) and a ceramic bezel for resistance; stainless steel (in black PVD coating) case back, crown, and pushers complete the structural makeup. To enhance the bold sportiness of the watch, the dial and magnesium parts are lacquered in Motorlac, a high-performance auto coating that imparts a vibrant grainy texture in black, blue, red, or grey. The engine is the B130 self-winding chronograph calibre with a 42-hour power reserve, while a vulcanised rubber strap complements its water resistance of 100m.

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On the nautical front, the fashionable Diagono Scuba resurfaces with greater refinement. The 1994 original was lauded as a sports watch with an irrepressible sense of style, so naturally, essential elements of its design are maintained. The notched diver’s bezel once again picks up the architectural codes of Roman columns and arches, as do the hands and hour markers, while the dial is cleared of text for visual impact. The new Scuba incorporates the manufacture BVL 191 Solotempo calibre for simple time telling, and is water resistant to a solid 300m. Available in pink gold (for sporty luxury), steel, and bi-colour variations, the latest model even incorporates blue on the dial for an aquatic touch.

This article was originally published in Men’s Folio Magazine June 2016