Bvlgari Octo Finissimo Skeleton Sandblasted
A “Blast” For Summer, Hands-On with the Bulgari Octo Finissimo Skeleton
This shockingly thin skeletonized Italian masterpiece may just be Watchonista’s top pick for summer wearability. Nevertheless, it will certainly be the talking piece at your next Hampton’s soiree.
By Josh Shanks
Contributor
“And the hits keep on coming! “ was what I muttered as the Octo Finissimo Skeleton came across my desk. Over the past two years, we’ve covered the Octo Finissimo collection left and right, and yet, these Roman inspired jewels just keep moving the bar into the stratosphere.
At Baselworld 2018, we saw the brand introduce another world record with the world’s thinnest automatic tourbillon and the introduction of a whole slew of new sandblasted Octo Finissimos. While much has been made of the Octo Finissimo Sandblasted editions, it’s skeletonized cousin, the Octo Finissimo Squelette (French for Skeleton) hasn’t received the laudable praise of its relative.
So, when given the opportunity to take the Rose Gold version for a spin, we jumped at the chance. After all, I could think of far worse ways to spend a weekend.
Summer on the wrist
The Octo Finissimo Squelette enjoyed two distinct destinations during it’s time with us. First, my colleague @alexanderfriedman brought it east for a weekend in the Hamptons. Seeing the watch (and Alex) enjoy plates of fresh seafood and spritzes certainly made this journalist drool. The sandblasted 40mm rose gold case contrasted the resplendent hues of the Hampton’s beautiful beaches quite well. It was clear that this is a watch you can wear to breakfast, lunch, and even the fanciest of dinners. I’ve also heard that Alexander got more than a few compliments.
Back in New York, we took the sandblasted beauty out for a day in the concrete jungle. Over a beautiful pour of Italian Rose, we couldn’t help but notice the subtle details that make the Octo Finissimo Squelette a surefire hit. After a few glasses of libations, we took a stroll through central park, where we were surrounded by more “commonplace” watches, looking down at the Octo Finissimo, we knew this watch was one of a kind.
Hands-On
Like another Octo Finissimos, the Squelette (Skeleton) version is remarkably thin. At just 2.23mm thick, it’s a beautiful watch from all angles. Its slightly curved lugs conform to the wrist with ease and comfort. The octagonal shape of the case renders the wearer speechless at times. The watch’s linear design invites further exploration and discovery. It seems as if there is something else to look at every time you view the watch.
Overall, I found the watch perfectly wearable and a surefire discussion piece wherever I went.
Technicality
From a technical standpoint, the watch is powered by the manually wound BVL 128SK Finissimo caliber. Viewable through the circularly brushed skeletonized dial. After a full wind, the watch boasts 65 hours of power reserve and shows a power reserve indicator at nine o’clock. It’s a delight to see the balance wheel ticking through the dial at four o’clock. Another summer ready feature is a 30-meter water resistance. However, with the integrated black alligator strap, I’d steer clear of water.
All in all, the Bulgari Octo Finissimo Squelette (Skeleton) is the perfect pairing for summer fun. Its 40mm case sits well on almost any size wrist and naturally complements most summer attire well.
(Photography by Liam O’Donnell)
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