Bulgari enjoys a unique relationship with the timepiece industry. 

A part of the LVMH group, they are perhaps better known — at least outside watchmaking circles — for their luxurious high jewelry, fashion, and fragrance divisions than they are for their wristwatches. But what watches they do have are really quite something. One need look no further than their award-winning (and completely breathtaking) Octo Finissimo series to prove that they have it where it counts in terms of design chops.

Less well known, but closely related, are timepieces such as this one: A Bulgari Octo Solotempo. These pieces feature much of the primary design cues of the Octo Finissimo, but are executed in a slightly 'thicker,' less complex construction and are offered at a more attainable price point. 

This particular Octo features a 41mm, 'stepped' stainless steel construction with a sapphire crystal, a steel crown with a black ceramic filling, a deep glossy black dial with applied indices and a matching 'sleletonized-obelisk' handset, and a sapphire exhibition caseback.

Powered by Bvlgari's Calibre 193 automatic winding movement, this piece comes fitted to a matching, integrated black alligator leather strap with a signed steel deployant clasp.

The resulting product is at once retro-fantastic and highly avant-garde. You'd have to look pretty far and wide to find a contemporary timepiece with high-end casing materials and functionality for anywhere near this price point — and it probably wouldn't end up looking this cool.

Surely, if you’re the type of person who appreciates a forward-thinking brand — who’s tired of the same old designs being resurfaced ad infinitum — then there are few horological developments more exciting than the Octo line. But don’t take our word for it.

Try this baby on today!