Viva l'Italianita

Bulgari showcases its impeccable Italian approach to watchmaking via the new Octo Roma and Bulgari Aluminium watches.

- Joshua Yap

WHETHER SETTING RECORDS with ultrathin timepieces, astounding the watch community with stupendous complications or dazzling us with bejewelled creations, Bulgari does it all with inimitable Italian flair. Stylish, wearable and imbued with a hefty dose of la dolce vita, its watches embody what the brand refers to as Italianita—a sense of ‘Italian-ness’ exemplified by two of its refreshed collections this year, the Octo Roma and Bulgari Aluminium.

Roma Revival 

Key to Bulgari’s success since its founding in 1884 is an uncanny ability to renew and reinvigorate its design language while tapping into its rich heritage. A recent example is Octo Roma. Its predecessor, Octo, was launched in 2012. Inspired by the arches of Maxentius Basilica in the Roman Forum, it pays tribute to the brand’s historical connection to the Eternal City with a round bezel atop an octagonal shape. Thanks to its clean lines and provocative appearance sporting 110 facets, Octo garnered worldwide acclaim. Perhaps buoyed by its reception, Bulgari introduced Octo Roma five years later.

Incorporating design elements from 1975’s Bulgari Roma, which took inspiration from the likeness of ancient Roman coins, Octo Roma featured a more streamlined appearance and greater wearability. The 110 facets on the forebear’s case are reduced to 58 facets on Octo Roma, resulting in a softer, more refined look that suits any occasion.