Introducing Fabrizio Bonamassa Returns to Sketch the Dial, Revealing Intricate Movement Details

In 2014, Bulgari debuted the sporty-chic Octo Finissimo, an ultra-modern timepiece inspired by the Basilica of Maxentius in Rome. Since its introduction, Bulgari's Octo Finissimo collection has emerged as a triumph in contemporary watchmaking. These watches not only shattered records for thinness but also revolutionized the notion of ultra-thin timepieces with their blend of sleek design and casual elegance. In celebration of Bulgari's 140th anniversary, the brand unveiled a series of ultra-cool models featuring a sketch dial. The company unveiled two automatic watches and one chronograph with a GMT function.

The two automatic watches come in 40mm 18K rose gold or steel cases with a notable thickness of 6.40mm, as well as a polished and satin-brushed 43mm steel case with a thickness of 8.75mm for the Chronograph GMT. All three models come with a water resistance of 100m and a screw-down crown.

The new sketch dial featured in the Octo Finissimo Automatic 140th Anniversary pays homage to its mechanical intricacies. Set against a sandblasted base dial, meticulously matched to the case material, is a hand-drawn illustration by Buonamassa Stigliani depicting his initial sketch of the BVL138 movement.

These dials exhibit remarkable detail, owing to the meticulous replication of the original sketch. Beyond outlining the movement architecture, Buonamassa Stigliani has included intricate elements such as the anglage of the plates, the regulator on the balance wheel, and the côtes de Genève decoration. The hands are coated in black PVD and finished with satin, although the sub-seconds hand at 7 o'clock may be less conspicuous.

In contrast, the teaser provided by Bulgari for the Chronograph GMT offers insight into its design. Unlike the all-movement sketch of the Automatic, the Chronograph GMT prioritizes legibility, retaining clearly marked chronograph, running seconds, and GMT sub-dials.
The peripheral rotor travels around the circumference of the movement, winding the barrel which can be seen between 11 and 12 o’clock.

The sapphire back unveils the manufacture calibre BVL138, an ultra-thin automatic movement standing at a mere 2.23mm in height. It is powered by a platinum micro-rotor and, despite its slim profile, boasts a comfortable 60-hour power reserve. Revealing its components predominantly on a horizontal plane, the movement is adorned with Geneva stripes, and beveled bridges. The crystal bears dedicated "Edizione Limitata" and "1884-2024" inscriptions, as well as the watch's limited-edition number.

The bracelets are crafted from matching materials and feature a blend of satin and polished surfaces, secured by a concealed butterfly clasp.

The automatic versions are limited to 280 pieces in steel priced at €17,800 which is equivalent to 71,500 AED, and 70 pieces in rose gold priced at €51,000 which is equivalent to 200,500 AED. The Chronograph GMT in Steel is limited to 140 individually-numbered pieces, priced at €20,800 which is equivalent to 84,000 AED.

 For more information, please visit Bvlgari official website.