In an exclusive interview with finews.asia, Bulgari CEO Jean-Christophe Babin sheds light on how the storied Italian luxury brand is making its mark in the world of Swiss watchmaking. As a pivotal figure behind the annual «Geneva Watch Days,» Babin unveils Bulgari’s most intricate timepieces to date and offers insights into the brand’s continual innovation and artistic collaborations.
While Bulgari is widely recognized for its opulent jewelry, the brand has a rich history in watchmaking that dates back to 1919. Initially, Bulgari’s watches were luxurious accessories designed to complement its jewelry collections. Over time, the brand expanded its watch offerings to include everyday timepieces for both men and women. The introduction of the Tubogas collection in the 1970s and the iconic Serpenti line marked a significant shift in Bulgari’s watchmaking approach.
By 2000, Bulgari had solidified its place in the world of Grand Complications with the acquisition of renowned watchmaking houses Gérald Genta and Daniel Roth. This strategic move allowed Bulgari to diversify its offerings, making it a unique player in the luxury watch segment. Today, Bulgari stands out with its extensive range of timepieces, including Grand Complications, jewelry watches, and collections for both genders.
What distinguishes Bulgari’s watchmaking division from its competitors? Babin highlights the brand’s commitment to pushing boundaries, particularly in integrating jewelry craftsmanship with horological precision. A prime example is the “Piccolissimo,” which boasts the world’s smallest mechanical movement, weighing a mere 1.2 grams. This breakthrough follows the success of the “Finissimo” series, known for its record-breaking thinness.
“The redefinition of ultra-small mechanical movements for the 21st century is a testament to Bulgari’s innovation,” Babin said. “We continue to challenge the conventions of watchmaking and set new benchmarks for the industry.”
This year’s «Geneva Watch Days» has been a showcase of Bulgari’s latest advancements. Among the highlights is the Octo Finissimo Ultra COSC chronometer, which is the thinnest chronometer ever created at just 1.7 millimeters. This timepiece represents Bulgari’s ninth consecutive world record and is a significant milestone in modern watchmaking.
Another standout is the Bulgari Octo Finissimo Perpetual Calendar, which received the prestigious «Aiguille d’Or» at the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève in 2021. This award-winning piece is celebrated for its exceptional blend of technical prowess and iconic design.
As Bulgari continues to redefine watchmaking, Babin remains optimistic about the brand’s future. “Our presence at key events like Geneva Watch Days is crucial for reinforcing our position in the industry,” he said. “We are excited about the future and committed to bringing more innovative and stunning timepieces to our clients.”
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