Since its launch in 2012, the Bulgari Octo has rapidly acquired central status within the collections, following in the wake of the Octo models with retrograde displays launched in 2010. In barely three years, this model has earned a special place among the surrounding watch creations. A formal sophisticated approach and freshly defined aesthetic codes enable Octo to deploy its aesthetic charms across a broad range and to fully assert its potential, as emphasised by the new releases for 2015.

Taking the necessary time. When it comes to the quest for innovation, watch firms sometimes seem to be caught up in a race against the clock. Alongside the exercise of its imaginative powers, the Bulgari watch manufacturing company also displays an ability to adopt a serene, carefully paced approach that fosters strength and self-assurance.

The Octo watch is endowed with precisely these qualities. Its spectacular architecture and distinctive identity enable it to overturn preconceived ideas, inviting the eye and the mind to experience fresh discoveries, affording new and acknowledged pleasures, while proclaiming its place within the galaxy of haute horlogerie stars.

World’s thinnest tourbillon. Last year’s presentation of the world’s thinnest tourbillon was a global-scale event that had a considerable impact among connoisseurs of extreme high-end watchmaking. This year, Bulgari has decided to treat all those wishing to measure time thanks to this beautiful instrument by offering various interpretations driven by super-slim mechanisms.

The 110-facetted case of the Octo watch provides a perfect setting for the three Manufacture-made calibres starting with the exceptional BVL 268 Finissimo Tourbillon, a flying tourbillon movement measuring just 1.95 mm – to date the world’s thinnest tourbillon movement.

Octo Finissimo Tourbillon, endowed with a 52-hour power reserve, comes in three versions, all with a 40 mm-diameter case. The extremely elegant pink gold variation is fitted with a black alligator strap, while the other more modern-looking one comes in platinum framing a black lacquered dial. The platinum crown features black ceramic inserts, while the bezel is set with 60 baguette-cut diamonds.

The mechanical hand-wound Octo Finissimo watch is available in two different interpretations, both endowed with a 55-hour power reserve, recognisable by the small seconds hand appearing on a subdial at 7 o’clock, and also fitted with a black alligator leather strap. The first is in pink gold with a black lacquered dial, while the second is made of platinum set on the bezel with 64 brilliant-cut diamonds and adorned with a black ceramic-inlaid crown.

Moreover, Bulgari has also chosen to introduce several new variations on the theme of the Octo watch designed to highlight the beauty of its harmonious aesthetic. For while this watch is based on a complex, extremely structured design, and its case calls for expert care in shaping the 110 facets, the final result nonetheless exudes a distinct impression of simplicity.

Solotempo: essentials only. With the Solotempo range, Octo focuses strictly on essentials, indicating the hours, minutes and seconds as well as a date in a window at 3 o’clock. It is powered by the self-winding Manufacture BVL 191 movement with a 42-hour power reserve.

The diameter of the case has been deliberately reduced to 38 mm for this line, thereby enabling this classic and now timeless watch to embrace the resolutely modern style based on more modest diameters. Three variations are on offer.

The first is in steel and features an exquisite sunburst translucent-lacquered dial in a shimmering deep blue, teamed with an elegant blue alligator leather strap. The second has the same blue dial, but this time associated with a steel structured-link bracelet making a perfect match with the Octo watch. It renders the watch extremely versatile by enabling it to accompany its owner around the clock, from moments of daytime relaxation and sports activity right the way through to elegant dressy evening events.  The third opts for a sophisticated, more precious look with a silver-toned dial together with an 18-carat pink gold case and bracelet. 

Sparkling baguette-cut gems. Octo also knows how to shine in truly dazzling brilliance by appearing paved with 262 baguette-cut diamonds adorning the white gold case. Skilfully paved using the invisible setting technique, the dial displays a perfectly smooth surface composed of 178 baguette-cut diamonds highlighting the tourbillon device. The crown itself is set with 8 baguette-cut diamonds and a brilliant-cut diamond. In another interpretation, baguette-cut diamonds clothe to perfection the Octo Bi-Retrograde and its distinctive black ceramic displays creating a striking contrast with the pristine purity of the gems. These two exceptional interpretations powerfully demonstrate the eminently adaptive nature of a model that has it all and can do it all. Simplicity is a complex art that Bulgari masters with inimitable panache.