The Bulgari Aluminium GMT Amerigo Vespucci Limited Edition

Stylish, casual yet elegant, the Bulgari Aluminium makes a great option for a summer watch… The timing is therefore appropriate for a review of the latest iteration that has been released in the collection, a limited-edition GMT paying tribute to an emblematic Italian vessel and the spirit of adventure it represents. Let’s have a closer look at the new Bulgari Aluminium GMT Amerigo Vespucci Limited Edition.

Presented in 1998, the first-generation model of the Bulgari Aluminium was an instant success with its unconventional combination of materials – aluminium and rubber. This slick sports watch made a comeback on the occasion of the Geneva Watch Days 2020 – now 40mm in diameter, the aluminium watch with rubber bezel still stands out with its distinctive rubber/aluminium bracelet. 

The modern Bulgari Aluminium was first available with two movement options – time-and-date or chronograph. Last year, a GMT version was introduced, decked out in a navy blue, red and white uniform. The GMT model is now presented in a contrasting black and yellow livery in tribute to the Amerigo Vespucci ship and the spirit of adventure it represents – The Amerigo Vespucci is a tall ship of the Marina Militare, named after the Italian explorer (1451-1592) from whose name the term America is derived. In the eye of many, this elegant full-rigged ship is simply one of the most beautiful boats in the world. It is used as a training ship for Italian navy cadets.

Just like the other iterations of the modern Bulgari Aluminium, the GMT model is presented in a 40mm case. Its profile is relatively slim with a height of 9.70mm so it easily slides underneath the sleeve. Together with the combination of materials (altogether it weighs just 68.6g), this makes for a super comfortable watch on the wrist. The aluminium case features a rubber bezel engraved with the emblematic Bulgari Bulgari logo. The titanium crown and caseback are black DLC-coated. The water resistance is rated at 100m.

The main novelty on board this limited edition is the contrasting dial with a black and yellow anodized aluminium 24-hour GMT indication reminding of the Amerigo Vespucci black hull with white stripes and golden trimmings. The Italian flag appears above 6 o’clock. The use of Superluminova aims at optimizing legibility in all conditions. Turning the watch over, the case back is emblazoned with the caption “Nave Scuola Amerigo Vespucci – Non qui comincia ma quell che persevere,” the motto of the training ship, meaning “Not he who begins, but who perseveres.”

The watch is powered by the BVL calibre 192. This self-winding movement is based on an SW330-1, the Sellita clone of the tried-and-tested ETA 2893. Measuring 25.60mm in diameter, it runs at 4 Hz and its power reserve is of 48 hours when fully wound. It displays the hours, minutes, central seconds, central GMT hand on 24 hours and the date at 3 o’clock.

Last but not least, the watch is worn on the collection’s distinctive tapered and articulated rubber strap. Combining rubber and aluminium (for the central aluminium links), it features the brand’s name on the links close to the articulated lugs. The pin buckle is in aluminium. 

Wearing the Bulgari Aluminium on a regular base, it is really a model that grows on you. It is a super versatile watch, combining style, comfort and functionality. The Bulgari Aluminium GMT Amerigo Vespucci is a limited edition of 1,000 watches. It is presented in a dedicated mahogany wood box. Price is set at EUR 3,950 or CHF 3,820 which is relatively affordable for a Bvlgari.

For more information, please visit bulgari.com.