Introduction

Bulgari has long been synonymous with luxury and sophistication, and its roots are deeply embedded in the heart of Rome. The new Bulgari Octo Roma Striking 8 Days captures the essence of the city’s imperial architecture, blending it seamlessly into its exquisite watch design. This latest addition to the renowned Octo family, famed for its ultra-thin and record-breaking Octo Finissimo models, showcases a striking blend of contemporary aesthetics and outstanding craftsmanship.

Design and Functionality

At first glance, watch enthusiasts might recognize the Octo Roma Striking 8 Days as it is powered by a movement that made waves in 2022 when it was introduced in the Octo Finissimo Skeleton 8 Days. The skeletonised movement coupled with a remarkable 8-day power reserve sets this timepiece apart. Its striking combination of black DLC titanium, sapphire glass, and vibrant neon-green highlights makes a bold statement that embodies Italian flair and elegance.

Architectural Inspiration

The architectural design of the Octo Roma is heavily inspired by the historic Basilica Maxentius in the Roman Forum, characterized by its octagonal base and rounded bezel. In contrast to the sharp, edgy lines of the Octo Finissimo, the Octo Roma presents a more approachable silhouette that is both versatile and resilient. With offerings that range from classic time-and-date models to intricate high-jewellery pieces, and from the exceptional Grande Sonnerie Tourbillon to dynamic black DLC chronographs, the Octo Roma caters to a variety of tastes.

Specifications

Measuring 44.2mm in diameter, the watch features a matte black DLC titanium case adorned with sapphire panes that allow light to stream into the intricately designed movement. Though it may not match the ultra-slender profile of the Finissimo, at just 9.1mm thick, the Octo Roma still retains an elegant and streamlined appearance.

Movement Details

The exquisite grey skeletonised plates and bridges showcase Bulgari's manual-winding calibre BVL199 SK. While visibility was once a challenge in the titanium version of the Octo Finissimo Skeleton, this new model brilliantly overcomes that hurdle with eye-catching neon-green Super-LumiNova hour markers and hand tips. The hour markers, along with the prominent Arabic numeral 12, are affixed over the movement, giving it a striking yet sophisticated look against the black chapter ring marked with white minute indicators.

Functionality Features

One of the key highlights of the movement is the spoked small seconds counter located at 8 o’clock, featuring an ingenious power reserve gauge that visually indicates the winding status via a neon-green bar that moves towards or away from the center. Positioned prominently at 1 o’clock is the generously sized barrel, which houses a long spring that fuels the watch's remarkable 8-day power reserve - a fact proudly embossed on the dial. All of this is housed in a movement that measures a mere 2.5mm in thickness, underscoring the exceptional engineering that Bulgari has become known for.

Strap Options and Availability

The eye-catching Octo Roma Striking 8 Days is completed with a stylish black alligator strap accentuated with green stitching to harmonize with its luminescent features. For a more casual look, a rubber strap with a textile finish is also available. The official launch is set for October 2024, and it will retail for CHF 33,100.

Conclusion

Prepare to be enthralled by a watch that not only pays homage to the glorious past of Rome but also raises the bar for contemporary horology. The Bulgari Octo Roma Striking 8 Days is destined to become a standout piece for collectors and connoisseurs alike.