Bvlgari's Octo Finissimo Ultra: A Timepiece That Redefines Thinness
The Octo Finissimo Ultra is the world's thinnest mechanical watch at 1.80 millimeters thick. It was designed by Bvlgari's Creative Director, Fabrizio Buonamassa Stigliani, who transformed a 3D watch design into a two-dimensional concept.
Komplication Team
4/13/20242 min read
In a groundbreaking achievement for watchmaking, Bvlgari has unveiled the Octo Finissimo Ultra, setting a new record as the world's thinnest mechanical watch at just 1.80 millimeters thick. This feat represents the culmination of a three-year research and development process, involving multiple technical teams and the filing of eight patent applications.
While achieving such a thin mechanical watch is a technical tour de force, the Octo Finissimo Ultra represents more than just an engineering accomplishment. It symbolizes Bvlgari's ability to innovate, push boundaries, and explore new dimensions in contemporary watchmaking. A QR code engraved on the barrel connects the timepiece to a global ecosystem, hinting at future possibilities.
As the eighth world record for the Octo Finissimo line, the Ultra model cements Bvlgari's position as a pioneer in ultra-thin watchmaking. It is a testament to the brand's commitment to overcoming challenges and defying the limits of what is possible in the world of haute horlogerie.
Photos: octo-ultra.bulgari.com
The ultra-thin timepiece is the brainchild of Fabrizio Buonamassa Stigliani, Bvlgari's Creative Director, who reimagined a classic 3D watch design as a two-dimensional object. From the front, the Octo Finissimo Ultra reveals the intricate depths of its mechanical movement, while its side profile appears as thin as a sheet of paper.
To construct a fully mechanical watch at this unprecedented thinness, Bvlgari's engineers had to start from scratch, reinventing the entire process. The caseback serves as the mainplate, integrating the 170 components of the BVL Calibre 180 movement. Patented innovations include the watch glass assembly, barrel structure, oscillator module, differential display, modular structure, bracelet, and case components utilizing a bimetal construction.
The octagonal case design pays homage to Bvlgari's Roman heritage, drawing inspiration from the geometric motifs found on the arches of the Basilica of Maxentius. This distinctive shape has become a hallmark of the Octo collection, which now holds eight world records across various timekeeping, acoustic, and astronomical complications.