This year marks a milestone for Bulgari, as the brand is celebrating its 140th anniversary. To kick off the celebration, the Italian jeweler is introducing three Octo Finissimo Limited Editions, each showcasing illustrated dials that depict the movements as if one were observing the watch from the reverse side, as seen through an open case back.
These two new models are a sequel to the Bulgari Octo Finissimo 10th Anniversary Sketch Limited Edition watches released in 2022.
Released in 18-karat rose gold and in stainless steel in a 40mm case and powered by the in-house BVL 138 calibre, the new Bulgari Octo Finissimo Automatic Sketch features a dial inspired by the hand-drawn sketches of Fabrizio Buonamassa Stigliani, the industrial designer who became the executive director of product creation for the brand in 2001.
The dial showcases the watch’s micro-rotor, escapement, bridges, rubies and intricate finishing details, such as Côtes de Genève and circular graining.
Its sapphire case back is uniquely etched with “Edizione Limitata” and “1884 – 2024” to commemorate the brand’s anniversary and will be limited to 280 pieces for the steel version and 70 in rose gold.
A limited-edition of the Octo Finissimo Chronograph GMT Sketch is being released in tandem. Limited to 140 pieces, the Octo Finissimo Chronograph GMT Sketch features a stainless steel case measuring 43mm and is powered by the automatic calibre BVL 318 with a 55-hour power reserve.
The design houses two complications, incorporating a calibre measuring 3.3mm in height that includes a 30-minute chronograph and central second but also displays a second time zone at 3 o’clock.
Available at Bulgari’s site and boutiques, the Octo Finissimo Automatic Sketch will retail for $55,900 for the rose gold and $19,500 for the steel version, with the Chronograph model priced at $22,800.