The Octo Finissimo line has been enjoying incredible success for several years, not only because of its distinctive and unmistakable design, but also because of the exceptional technical work behind it, culminating in numerous world records for subtlety for various complications.
After setting the record back in 2014 for the world’s thinnest tourbillon, Bulgari is back in the limelight at Watches and Wonders, raising the bar even higher and unveiling a new tourbillon, named Ultra, that surpasses all previous records.
Discovering the new Bulgari Octo Finissimo Ultra Tourbillon
The new Octo Finissimo Ultra Tourbillon represents the high point of Bulgari’s journey toward extreme subtlety: it is in fact the thinnest tourbillon ever made in the world, at only 1.85 mm thick and 40 mm in diameter. Pulsating inside is the BVF 900 caliber, a 4 Hz hand-wound mechanical movement with a 42-hour power reserve.
To make the design even bolder, Bulgari decided to take on an additional challenge: the skeletonization of some components to amplify the visual effect and let light pass through the movement, enhancing every detail. The surfaces, finished with modern techniques – from the polished flange, to the tourbillon bridge with a rhodium-plated soleil finish, to the rhodium-plated counterweights – create an elegant and contemporary contrast.
Bulgari Octo Finissimo Ultra Tourbillon: fine materials and technical details
In keeping with the tradition for Ultra models, the case is made of micro-sandblasted titanium, giving it a refined dark gray look suitable for any occasion. Completing the watch are a tungsten carbide plate, stainless steel crowns, and an integrated bracelet just 1.5 mm thick, including a folding clasp.
Compared to previous models in the Ultra line, this new Tourbillon features a more traditional dial, with the hour and minute hands arranged together, rather than in a “regulator” configuration.
Particularly noteworthy is the double crown: one at 3 o’clock to set the time, and a second at 8 o’clock for direct manual winding of the watch-a practical and distinctive solution, especially when compared to other ultra-thin competitive models, which require an external instrument for winding.
The eight patents of the Octo Finissimo Ultra Tourbillon for a world record
To make such a slim watch, the traditional concept of watchmaking construction had to be completely revised. The movement is no longer contained in a classic case, but integrated into a single supporting structure. This solution required eight specific patents, ranging from the modular construction to the differential crown to an innovative strap design.
Conclusion
In my opinion, Bulgari is one of the most interesting brands of the past decade, and its tireless research and development proves this with each new creation. With the Octo Finissimo Ultra Tourbillon, the brand not only sets a new record, but proves once again that the beauty of haute horlogerie lies not only in extreme mechanics, but also in the harmonious design and attention to detail, which make this timepiece an absolute pleasure to admire and wear.
Visit our Youtube channel to experience the best of the world of watchmaking firsthand.
For all real-time updates follow us on Instagram.
