Bulgari Marks the 50th Anniversary of Its First Watch With the Limited Edition “Blu Incanto”
To mark the 50th anniversary of its debut watch design, the Roman jewellery has produced a marble tribute to antiquity.
It’s known as the watch that’s so nice, they named it twice. In 1975, the Italian jewellery house of Bulgari introduced its inaugural watch – a simple round yellow-gold case with a broad, flat bezel bearing the inscription “Bvlgari Roma”, inspired by ancient Roman coins. This original watch wasn’t even made to be sold but instead was created as a special gift for Bulgari’s best customers.
So it was a hit?
Exactly. The watch made such an impression that the decision was made to release it to the wider world. In 1977, famed watch designer Gérald Genta was brought in to refine the style.
The most notable update was the double “Bvlgari Bvlgari” engraved on the bezel, which added balance and gave the watch its name. Of course, the big news about this latest model is the rich blue marble used.
Is the dial actually made of marble?
Yes, a thin slice of Blu Incanto marble has been cut and turned into the face. Each timepiece of this limited edition is unique, thanks to the organic inclusions and veins found in the stone. Not only does the marble contrast handsomely with the rose-gold case and dark-blue alligator strap, it’s also a subtle nod to the brand’s Roman roots.
What’s on the inside?
The 38-millimetre watch is powered by Bulgari’s own Solotempo BVL 191 automatic movement.
And the price?
$27,200.
