Bulgari hit a horological renaissance with its trilogy of Octo Finissimo record breakers, but beyond the impressive ultra-thin watchmaking, the svelte successes recently introduced an unprecedented style that has become equally potent. Both the Octo Finissimo Minute Repeater and Octo Finissimo Automatic bear the crisp, ultramodern look of sandblasted titanium, an emblem of Italian design daring that has disrupted the precious perspective of luxury wristwatches. Now, the two founding timepieces of the Octo line get to don the same exterior in honour of their provenance.
Titanium is an excellent material for watchmaking due to its incredible lightness. It boasts a density 40 per cent lower than that of steel, and is thermal, mechanical and corrosion resistant. Bulgari’s sandblasted treatment of the metal produces a stylishly industrial expression that boldly complements the 110-faceted architecture of the indomitable Octo.
Like their Finissimo descendants, the case and dial of the Octo progenitors are newly crafted in titanium; both models keep their original 41mm sizing. The three-hand Octo l’Originale is an inherently straightforward watch elevated by its contemporary exterior, equipped with the automatic Calibre BVL 191 Solotempo manufacture movement. The Octo l’Originale Chronograph has added interest on the bezel in the form of a sporty tachymeter, and is powered by the high-frequency automatic Calibre BVL 328 Velocissimo chronograph movement.
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