The new Sotirio Bulgari models are characterised by a pure, serene design and an innate elegance underscored by the restrained formal architecture of the case. A year after its 2009 launch marking the 125th anniversary of the House, the new Sotirio Bulgari appears with a slightly larger case measuring 43 mm in diameter. Featuring steel, rose gold and a black surface treatment, this new release is being introduced in a range of five models. All of them are driven by the new Calibre 168, a mechanical self-winding movement entirely designed, developed and produced in-house by Bulgari.
The Sotirio Bulgari collection pays tribute to the founder of one of the most prestigious names in the contemporary luxury business, and to the intangible values that have guided the firm ever since its creation. It is to this exceptional individual – an entrepreneur and an aesthete who was well ahead of his times – that Bulgari is dedicating a watch as unique as the story it enshrines.
Imbued with the rich stylistic tradition that has pervaded the entire history of Bulgari, the new creation displays a simple, pared-down, yet powerful architecture in a technically and aesthetically innovative case. All models in the collection are distinguished by their unique signature lugs. Secured to the case-back in such a way as to form convergent angles, they feature an original structure that is extremely sturdy despite minimal contact with the case.
This sophisticated construction provides scope for alternating finishes typifying the concern for detail embodied in all Bulgari watches: 45° fan-shaped lugs, the “SB” monogram engraved on the crown of each Sotirio Bulgari watch, and a sapphire crystal case-back revealing the new Calibre 168. Such constant attention to aesthetics is also reflected in the new bracelet fitted on the steel and steel/rose gold versions. Its highly complex construction ensures extreme suppleness and facilitates the attractive alternation of brushed and polished elements that contribute to its supreme overall elegance. This resolutely high-end bracelet is of course fitted with a triple folding clasp.
This quest for ultimate details blending fine workmanship with stylistic sophistication is also expressed on the elegant dial of the Sotirio Bulgari collection, crafted in black sapphire on all variations: steel, steel/rose gold and rose gold. The hour-markers and the brand signature are hand-applied, while generous Roman numerals at 12 and 6 o’clock are reminiscent of the origins of the inimitable Bulgari style.
The DLC (Diamond Like Carbon) version features an extremely sophisticated and contrasting dial alternating between black sapphire and a sunburst guilloché motif separated by a slender silvered steel arch. The chromatic and geometrical combination lends the dial an exclusive style that echoes the black case middle of the watch featuring a high-tech treatment that makes it particularly resistant. This surface treatment boasts a combination of exceptional properties in terms of resistance to abrasive, adhesive and corrosive wear. The black and silvered colour contrast on the Sotirio Bulgari DLC offers a noble reinterpretation of the masculine refinement typical of the mid-20th century automotive industry.
This entire watch – including the movement, case, dial, steel and steel/gold bracelet – is conceived in-house within the Bulgari manufacturing facilities. While clearly conveying modern values, Sotirio Bulgari also represents the epitome of contemporary horological excellence.
The new Sotirio Bulgari comes in five different executions, on a 43 millimetre case framing a black sapphire dial. All versions are driven by Calibre 168, a mechanical self-winding movement entirely designed, developed and produced in-house by Bulgari. It displays the hours, minutes and seconds as well as the central instant-jump date. The movement is visible through the sapphire crystal case-back.
New Models:
– Sotirio Bulgari, DLC, 43mm steel case with DLC treatment.
– Sotirio Bulgari, 43 mm steel case, steel bracelet.
– Sotirio Bulgari, 43mm steel/18ct pink gold case,steel/18ct pink gold bracelet.
– Sotirio Bulgari, 43mm 18ct pink gold case, alligator strap.
– Sotirio Bulgari, 43mm steel case, alligator strap.
