In an evening of watchmaking and whisky, Bvlgari showcased why it stands as more than just a jeweller. From Serpenti to world-record Octo Finissimo complications, guests experienced the maison’s artistry up close!
Bvlgari is well known for its Roman elegance and celebrated jewellery creations. WatchAdvice was honoured to host an intimate evening with Bvlgari this week to showcase that the brand has so much more to offer. This special event allowed guests to experience a more elegant and sophisticated side to Bvlgari, one that revealed the remarkable watchmaking story, proving that the brand is much more than gemstones and glamour.
For many newcomers to watchmaking, it came as a surprise to discover Bvlgari’s extensive range, stretching from the timeless elegance of the Serpenti collection to the record-breaking innovation of the Octo Finissimo line. The seasoned collectors were also in for a treat, as Bvlgari flew down a range of exclusive high-complication timepieces that we wouldn’t normally see in Brisbane (not all together at least!).
This exclusive event was also run alongside Glenmorangie Tastings, showcasing to us their standout Whiskey range, from the Glenmorangie 18-year-old, Signet, to the Grand Vintage. An ambassador for Glenmorangie Tastings, Adrien was present on-site to guide guests through the tasting aspect of the evening. Honestly, what better way to enjoy high-watchmaking and elegant timepieces than with a perfectly paired dram of Whiskey, savoured around great company!
Before the evening began, the WatchAdvice team was given the opportunity to choose a Bvlgari timepiece to wear for the night. With an extensive range on offer, each of us gravitated toward different models, selections that not only reflected our individual tastes but also highlighted the remarkable range of Bvlgari’s watchmaking expertise.
Chamath’s choice was the Octo Finissimo Watch in 18kt Yellow gold with an ultra-thin movement (2.23mm), stunning sunray navy blue lacquered dial.
Matt’s choice was more on the complex side, showcasing not only Bvlgari’s expertise in skeletonisation, but also movement manufacture, as this Octo Finissimo Skeleton has an 8-day power reserve!
My choice, on the other hand, leans towards the classical watchmaking of Bvlgari, with a twist, however! This latest Bvlgari Bvlgari timepiece is a limited edition with a Verde Alpi green marble dial!
Mario, a lover of skeletonised timepieces, chose the Bvlgari Octo Roma Striking 8 Days. With his slimmer wrists in mind, he was also keen to showcase the Serpenti, a choice everyone agreed with, given it stands as one of Bvlgari’s most iconic designs.
The evening then started with a commencement speech from Sarah Zaric, the store manager of Bvlgari’s Brisbane Boutique, followed by our very own Chamath, who gave his insights into Bvlgari, sharing his and Matt’s knowledge and experience with the brand, having visited their manufacture in Switzerland and getting a first-hand tour of the highwatchmaking department in Le Sentier.
Brett Harrison, the Deputy Manager of Bvlgari, then took the guests on a journey through the history of Bvlgari, in which there was also a visual presentation through what Bvlgari calls “Beyond Time Watch Wall”. Beyond Time is an interactive experience through a touchscreen where the Client navigates through a digital pattern that contains all the chapters of the book: “Beyond Time”. Various collections were shown, from Octo, Serpenti, Jewellery, and Bvlgari Bvlgari to the Grand Complications.
Once the formalities were over, guests stepped into the World of Bvlgari, enjoying the rare opportunity to handle and admire some of the maison’s most remarkable creations up close.
In between all the mingling and watch talk, the guests were also treated to a variety of finger foods that paired perfectly with the evening’s whisky. From the light, delicate bites to more indulgent canapés, the spread added an extra touch of refinement to the night. It was the ideal complement to an event that balanced both horological excellence and lifestyle indulgence.
What I enjoy the most about these intimate evenings is the genuine connection they create. I had the pleasure of meeting so many amazing new faces who showed their love for watches, and how it all started! From the boutique staff to the store manager and even the brand managers themselves, everyone is approachable and eager to share their passion.
The conversations flow naturally, whether it’s deep diving into the intricacies of a movement or simply appreciating the artistry of fine jewellery. It becomes less about a formal presentation of Bvlgari and more about a shared love for craftsmanship, making the whole experience feel much more personal and memorable.
As mentioned earlier, guests were treated to an incredible lineup of timepieces throughout the evening. Highlights included the Octo Finissimo Skeleton 8 Days, the newly released Bvlgari Bronzo collection, the Octo Roma Tourbillon, the Octo Roma Carillon Minute Repeater, and the Octo Finissimo Minute Repeater.
For me personally, one of the most memorable moments of the night was hearing the minute repeater come to life, its chimes filling the room in a way that perfectly captured the magic of high watchmaking.
But that wasn’t all. As we know, Bvlgari’s jewellery collections are world-renowned for their luxury and elegance, and on the night, they were just as much a highlight as the watches. Guests had the chance to try on and experience these stunning pieces firsthand, adding another layer of glamour to the night!
In the end, everyone cherished what was truly a memorable evening with Bvlgari. From the enchanting chimes of the minute repeaters, to the mesmerising rotations of the tourbillon, and the timeless elegance of the Serpenti Tubogas coiled gracefully around the wrist, this was an event that celebrated the very best of Bvlgari’s watchmaking and jewellery artistry!
Full Photo Gallery – Bvlgari X WatchAdvice
