Bvlgari Octo Finissimo Skeleton Red

Almost every time we write about Bvlgari, it’s breaking news about another impressive ultra-thin world record Octo Finissimo. Although it does belong to the iconic ultra-thin Octo Finissimo family and bears a lean manual-winding movement, the news today concerns a very effective colour update to an existing Octo Finissimo Skeleton model. Initially launched in 2016 in a black DLC-coated steel case with a pink gold bezel and a dramatically skeletonised movement, the Octo Finissimo Skeleton was revisited in 2018 in an all-black titanium case. The novelty for 2021 is the launch of this matte black ceramic Bvlgari Octo Finissimo Skeleton Red Limited Edition.

As one of the most iconic watch designs on the scene today, the Octo fuses elements of classical Roman architecture with powerful avant-garde design. With the advent of the ultra-thin Octo Finissimo line in 2014, Bvlgari proved that slim profiles are not at odds with complex case constructions and all manner of complications. If you’d like to learn more about the Octo Finissimo line, don’t miss our retrospective coverage of the collection and its ultra-thin podium winners.

The specifications of the latest Octo Finissimo Skeleton have not been altered. The 40mm case with its ultra-slim height of 5.75mm is identical to former editions but is now made of high-tech black ceramic. Pursuing a contemporary stealth vibe, the ceramic used for the case, bracelet, folding clasp and crown is sandblasted to produce a matte, slightly granular surface. Like the monochrome titanium version of 2018, the matte black ceramic finishings somewhat attenuate the elaborate stepped and octagonal architecture of the case, especially when compared to models like the stainless steel version of the Octo Finissimo S Chronograph with its dynamic polished and brushed finishings.

The novelty here is the use of bold red accents framing the impressive skeletonised movement. Used on the hour and minute hands, the peripheral minutes track and the openworked small seconds and power reserve counters, the vibrant red details with white markings disrupt the understated monochrome habillage and endow the Finissimo with a sportier and more casual spirit. If you look closely, you’ll see that the red minutes track and counters display a matte finishing while the hands are all polished.

The skeletonisation of the ultra-thin movement (BVL 128SK) is modern and edgy, and the blackened parts of the manual-winding movement give the calibre its stark industrial look. The complex network of bridges, front and back, supports the fascinating mechanics animated by the balance wheel at 4 o’clock and the small seconds at 7 o’clock.

Developed, produced and assembled in-house, the manual-winding calibre BVL 128SK measures 36mm and has a wafer-thin height of just 2.35mm. At Bvlgari, the concept of ultra-thin movements has never compromised efficiency or accuracy. Beating at 28,800vph, the movement delivers a sturdy 65-hour power reserve.

The Bvlgari Octo Finissimo Skeleton Red is limited to 180 pieces and retails for EUR 25,700 (incl. tax).

For more information, please consult www.bulgari.com.