Alongside GMT and chronographs, the Worldtimer can be considered one of the most practical, everyday complications. As the world reopens for travel, the practicality of such watches regains its significance. It's no surprise that many manufacturers include GMT or world timer models in their collections. In 2021, Bvlgari introduces the Bvlgari Octo Roma Worldtimer in two distinct versions: classic steel with blue and stealthy black DLC.
The Octo Roma should not be confused with the Octo Finissimo, although they share a similar design language. The Octo Roma is a softer, more relaxed interpretation of the octagonal and round shapes that all Octos follow. It's also positioned as less complex, with a slightly simpler case and a sporty appearance. Additionally, it is more accessible in price. However, it is by no means less “Bvlgari.”
Following the design concept introduced in 2004 under the name Octo, Bvlgari continued the line with the Octo Finissimo in 2014 and the Octo Roma collection in 2017. The bold architectural design of the Octo series has already become a modern icon unmistakably belonging to Bvlgari. It is also a platform with which the brand loves to experiment, as evidenced by numerous record-breaking watches presented in recent years.
The Bvlgari Octo Roma watches, as mentioned, are more restrained compared to the Octo Finissimo, yet still feature the signature Octo elements. An octagonal case with a round bezel and faceted lugs is what you expect from the Octo. This new Bvlgari Octo Roma Worldtimer model is no different from the others, as it has the same proportions as the rest of the Roma models.
The new Octo Roma Worldtimer comes either in a steel case with a blue dial and an integrated steel bracelet or with a black dial and a steel case with black DLC coating on a rubber strap. The 58 facets of the 41mm case have alternating matte and polished steel surfaces, but Bvlgari chose to treat the black version's case with DLC sandblasting to give it a more discreet look. The screw-down crown has a ceramic insert. Sapphire crystal is used at both the top and the back of the case.
The dials, blue sunburst or black matte with sandblasting, create a strong contrasting background for the indicators. The blue dial features applied hour markers with matte rhodium plating, while the black has sandblasted black markers with Super-LumiNova coating. Regardless, the dial is equipped with a rotating city ring on the outer edge and a rotating 24-hour scale. The hands are either skeletonized or blackened and coated with Super-LumiNova.
Bvlgari also introduces a new movement for the Octo Roma Worldtimer - the mechanical caliber BLV257 with automatic winding. This integrated movement, consisting of 261 components, is designed and manufactured at Bvlgari's manufacture in Le Sentier, Switzerland. The layout of the indicators is typical for a world timer: central hands and rotating disks. The time and world timer indications are adjusted using the crown. The movement measures 33mm in diameter and 6.03mm in height. It operates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (or 4 Hz) and has a 42-hour power reserve.
The steel case is fitted with an integrated steel bracelet with a folding clasp, which we know (and love) in the Octo family. The Octo Roma Worldtimer with black DLC coating is equipped with a black rubber strap with textile embossing and a steel pin buckle with black DLC coating. The price has not yet been confirmed.
For more information, please visit www.bulgari.com.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS - BVLGARI OCTO ROMA WORLDTIMER
Case: 41mm diameter x 11.35mm height - rounded octagonal case in stainless steel with matte/polished finish - also available with black DLC coating - sapphire crystal on top and case back - screw-down crown with ceramic decor - 100m water resistance
Dial: blue or black matte dial with sandblasted finish - gold hour markers with rhodium plating or sandblasted markers with Super-LumiNova - skeletonized steel hands or blackened steel hands with Super-LumiNova insert - rotating time zone ring - rotating 24-hour scale ring
Movement: Caliber BVL257 - integrated movement with automatic winding - 33mm x 6.03mm - 28,800 vph (frequency 4 Hz) - 26 jewels - hours, minutes, seconds, 24 time zones, and 24-hour indication - 42-hour power reserve
Strap: satin/polished steel bracelet with folding clasp - black textured rubber strap with DLC steel clasp (DLC version)
Reference: 103481 - stainless steel case, blue dial, steel bracelet, 103486 - steel case with black DLC coating, black dial, rubber strap
Price: on request