The New Yellow Gold Bulgari Octo Finissimo Tourbillon Skeleton Chronograph (Live Pics & Price)

Even though we haven’t seen new records broken recently, the Bulgari Octo Finissimo remains one of the most impressive ultra-thin collections in existence, setting an industry benchmark. From the thinnest tourbillon to the thinnest perpetual calendar, and then some, Bulgari has made a name for itself as the master of modern thinness. The watch we’re looking at today was once and still is the world’s thinnest tourbillon-chronograph on the market, a watch packed with technical features and powered by a stunning movement. This year, the Bulgari Octo Finissimo Tourbillon Skeleton Chronograph is presented in a new ultra-luxurious edition, dressed up in yellow gold. 

It has become a tradition for the collection to introduce new models in sandblasted titanium cases and bracelets. A sleek, monochromatic attire that focuses on the technical achievement, not on the habillage. And let’s be honest, these full-grey and matte watches are pretty special. A combination of sleek design and cutting-edge haute horlogerie, it’s how we’ve always preferred the Octo Finissimo models. The Octo Finissimo Tourbillon Skeleton Chronograph was no exception to this rule and was first presented in 2020 in its classic titanium attire. Last year, Bulgari presented a discreet yet high-end version in a platinum case, worn on a leather strap. This year’s limited edition has nothing to do with discretion…

As a reminder, the Octo Finissimo Tourbi-Skel-Chrono marked Bulgari’s sixth world record for thinness. A highly technical watch combining some of the most complex features, it once again confirmed the Italian brand’s supremacy in the field of ultra-thin watchmaking. Despite measuring only 3.50mm in height, its movement was capable of merging a one-minute tourbillon, a monopusher chronograph with a column wheel and oscillating pinion, a mode selector (to switch between winding and time-setting) and self-winding capacity, thanks to a peripheral rotor. The latter, combined with the brand’s concept of spreading the components on a horizontal plane instead of stacking them, ensured things were as thin as possible while keeping all the mechanical components in full sight. Not a negligible fact when you consider that this watch is also entirely openworked. Quite a mechanical feast, right?

Now, following the classic sandblasted grade 5 titanium model, it was time for one of the most complex watches in the collection to get a warmer, more luxurious touch. And it’s been done by means of an 18k yellow gold case. There are some major differences between the titanium and this gold version, most of which consist of satin-brushed surfaces with polished accents in the same vein as the Finissimo S model. All elements of the case are crafted in yellow gold, including the crown with a black ceramic insert. And to remain consistent, the integrated bracelet uses the same material – and yes, the watch does have a certain heft on the wrist.

The dial has seen some evolution, too, with a yellow gold-coloured module that integrates the inner flange and chronograph sub-counters. Time is read thanks to openworked black-toned hands, creating a very decent contrast for such a watch. Notably, while it’s identical to the titanium model, the layout remains highly appealing with a stunning sense of symmetry. The barrel at 12 o’clock echoes the tourbillon at 6 o’clock, and both mirror the two chronograph counters – small seconds and 30-minute counters.

The movement inside this watch, the calibre BVL 388, is pretty complex, to say the least. Regulated by a one-minute tourbillon running at 3Hz, it’s also a column-wheel chronograph and automatic winding with a peripheral rotor. In addition, it’s a monopusher chronograph, as the second push-piece at 4 o’clock is used as a mode selector to switch between winding and time-setting positions. Despite its complexity and thinness, it stores up to 52 hours of power reserve. Finishing is top-notch on both sides, with the back revealing an ultra-modern, intricate design where the chronograph mechanism is the star of the show.

Availability & Price

Released as a limited edition of 50 pieces, this new yellow gold Bulgari Octo Finissimo Tourbillon Skeleton Chronograph will be priced at EUR 260,000. For more details, please visit bulgari.com.