Making Cases at Bulgari: What Does a Designer's Workstation Look Like?

A window seat at work can be a highly coveted spot when you have a long day ahead of you. 

The inception of all case production is likely to begin here, in the development office where the concept of a watch case is turned into working reality. In this crucial initial step, the ideas and drawings of the watch designers are digitally translated into designs that are physically capable of being produced. Final technical drawings are implemented and the programming for the CNC machines in production is done.  

During this phase, there may be compromise being made between parties. Just as architects and civil engineers may grapple between differing viewpoints for a successful building, such is also the case with watch designers and machinists who must also find middle ground between an artistic concept and a functional mechanism. With enough exchange between the experts, a successful design can always be found that preserves the essence of the design and fulfills the restrictions for production. 

The watch case design is finalized using 3D-CAD software followed by machine programming. This is done using CAM software which simulates the movements of the cutting tools and the workpiece. The technical process allows for optimization of the tool paths and assurance that the part can be made quickly and safely.

What do you look for in a watch case when buying a watch?

More on Bulgari casemaking to follow soon.