Bulgari Octo 18k Pink Gold and Alligator Strap Watch Review

Description

For hardcore collectors, the Bulgari Octo cannot be dismissed simply because of the brand. It is a Genta masterpiece that has seen revival in Bulgari, featuring exquisite design that is a mix of Swiss and Italian sensibilities as well as a high-end movement developed in-house.

Design

Value for Money

Positives

Negatives

4.3

Ratings

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The Bulgari Octo is not one to be dismissed plainly because Bulgari is on the name. Sure, people are more familiar with its intricate pieces of jewelry that do not come cheap, but its work with horology must be admirable for a designer of Gerald Genta’s league to entrust his creation with them. Case in point: Bulgari Octo 18k Pink Gold and Alligator Strap Watch.

Release Date & Prices

Release date: 2012
Price: US$9,500.00 (alligator strap), $28,300.00 (18k pink gold)

Genta, known for his work with other luxury watch companies such as Audemars Piguet’s Royal Oak and the Patek Philippe‘s Nautilus—which both turned out to be legendary models and high sought after watches for both brands-kept a design, the Octo with an eight-sided case, to be manufactured with his own brand. That is, until Genta sold the watch to Bulgari in 1999. Being chosen by the designer did well for the company’s watchmaking division. Even though Gerald Genta has already passed away, Bulgari remains committed in keeping his prized design alive.

Specifications

Movement: BVL 193, mechanical caliber
Dimensions: 25.60mm X 3.70mm
Display: Hours, minutes and seconds, date that is semi-instant
Jewels: 28
Power reserve: Double barrel, 50 hours
Frequency: 28,800 vph
Case: manufactured in-house; screw-down case with screw-lock crown
Water resistance: 100m
Strap: Pink gold or black alligator leather

Pros

The Bulgari Octo has been made with Bulgari’s very own caliber, the BVL 193. In fact, in recent years we have seen the brand improve on this respect, perhaps to be taken more seriously as a watchmaker. With this comes a power reserve of 50 hours and a frequency of 28,000 vibrations per hour, so the technical side complement the watch’s aesthetic appeal. The watch also has a water resistance capacity of 100 meters, which is not common among watches that aren’t designed for diving.

The dial is not ostentatious by any means. What it is is a lovely marrying of Genta’s design and of the Italian brand’s simple elegance. The dial in black lacquer has gold and steel markers, and both work out bringing the best in contrasting colors. Besides the fact that it is a Genta masterpiece, It’s destined to be a show stealer while on your wrist.

Cons

The movement from Bulgari isn’t revolutionary compared to other brands, although it is highly likely to have remarkable in-house movements in the future because of Bulgari’s dedication to doing and developing more movements. Although the power reserve of the watch is packing enough at 59 hours, we could have seen a higher number because of the double barrels.