Bulgari’s Octo Roma Collection
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A New Chapter For Bulgari’s Octo Roma Collection With A Chronograph Debut

THM Desk
10 Apr 2023 |
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The Bulgari Octo, which debuted in 2012, has had a significant influence on the watchmaking industry in the past decade. It has become synonymous with Bulgari's uncanny ability to renew and reinvigorate its signature aesthetic and a profoundly innovative and powerful Italian-style design that enriches the art of Swiss watchmaking.

The new Octo Roma collection is highly adaptable, stylish, and elegant. A self-assured, well-dressed person would love this watch because of its variety of options, from a beautiful automatic watch to a stunning chronograph to a mesmerizing tourbillon. The Octo Roma is emblematic of Bulgari's ability to innovate and its contribution to Swiss watchmaking in the company's signature Italian style, with its strikingly unique and daring design.

The Bulgari Octo
The octagonal shape has a long history in Italian architecture, appearing in famous buildings like the Pantheon and in the works of Leonardo da Vinci; the vaults of the Basilica of Maxentius, constructed in the fourth century on one of Rome's most important architectural sites, are particularly notable for their eight-sided geometry. This design principle is also prominent in Bulgari's historical jewelry from the Monete collection, further cementing the company's ties to the Roman Empire.

The sumptuous volumes and chains of the pendants from the 1970s also harken back to this aesthetic, as do the colorful geometries that come to life in the iconic Parentesi modular collection. And it has become the signature look for the Octo Finissimo line from Bulgari. Octo Roma embodies the chic sophistication that has made Bulgari a household name in the world of high-end timepieces by drawing from both antiquity and the present day. Octo Roma stands apart by fusing heritage, architecture, and fine watchmaking through its extreme sophistication of varying finishes with circular and octagonal shapes playing off each other.

Octo Roma

The Octo Roma's structure is similar to that of the Octo Finissimo, but its softer angles and lines give it a more refined air. Since the lugs are narrower than those of the Finissimo, the bracelet is less noticeable when worn.

The time-and-date model of the Octo Roma is otherwise identical to its predecessor in every respect, down to the 41mm case diameter, the bracelet's attractive combination of polished and brushed surfaces, and the quick-release system that allows you to switch from the bracelet to the rubber strap that comes standard. The watch is powered by the same Bulgari caliber BVL 191. Both models boast increased water resistance to a maximum of 100 meters, up from 50 meters, and a screw-down crown.

Bulgari Octo Roma Chronograph

The Octo Roma Chronograph is a notable addition to the collection, and it stands out thanks to its sleek dial and easily readable blue or black display. It has a chronograph function that allows for the most accurate tracking of time elapsed thanks to its central seconds hand, 30-minute counter, and 12-hour counter. The date window can be read easily at any time because it is located between 4 and 5 o'clock, and the three sunburst counters can be read easily at 3, 6, and 9 o'clock. The automatic winding mechanical heart of the Calibre BVL 399 was built right here in Switzerland. The mechanism winds itself with the wearer's wrist motion and operates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour, making it highly accurate and reliable. The sapphire case back reveals the meticulous construction and ornate decoration of the movement.

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In a similar vein, the two pushers of the chronograph version have been meticulously integrated into the case, continuing onwards from the lugs. By adhering to the unchanging principles of Roman architecture, form, function, design, and ergonomics are brought together to form a unified and harmonious whole. This 42mm timepiece is ideal for the discriminating buyer because it satisfies the tastes of both purists and trendsetters with its harmonious blend of classic craftsmanship and daring, modern design.

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The new Octo Roma models have an interchangeable wristband, giving the wearer even more options. The interchangeability system is so important to Bulgari that the company's watchmakers took extra precautions to ensure seamless integration with the case. As a result, it is installed between the lugs on the back of the case as a pusher that is part of the overall structure.

Octo Roma

The system is particularly safe, and it only takes a few seconds and a click to switch out the strap. You can choose between a stainless steel bracelet and a rubber strap, both of which will be delivered by Bulgari at the time of purchase. You can buy replacement straps in a variety of colors and materials, including rubber and alligator leather. The new Octo Roma, a flexible and customizable timepiece, was designed to accommodate a wide range of personal tastes and preferences, which is why it comes in a rainbow of colors and textures.

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Adding some much-needed texture to the otherwise smooth dials of these new time-and-date and chronograph models is a Clous de Paris pattern. With the time-and-date Octo Roma, Bulgari offers a choice of blue, anthracite, or white dials, while the chronograph is available in either black or blue.

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With these new revisions, the Bulgari Octo Roma hits the sweet spot in the sub- $10,000 price bracket occupied by the sporty watches and classics like Rolex Submariner, Omega, and more. Of course, everyone has their own preferences, but with these updates, Bulgari has made the Octo Roma competitive again.