The Bulgari Octo Case Has Global and Cultural Appeal

We’ve seen Bulgari take liberties with design in the integration of the Gerald Genta Octo with its own interpretation. But one thing they did remain true to original form is the case. The case has retained its original eight-sided octagonal shape the way that Genta had originally designed it and is the main feature that sets the identity of the watch. With an elegance that befits any setting or occasion and a significance that delves deeper than its angular edges, the Bulgari Octo case transcends personal tastes as well as cultural appeal.

Taking a Closer Look

When the Octo was released in the summer of 2012, Bulgari took an iconic case and infused their own design elegance and classicism to create a new watch that was more relatable to Bulgari’s core market base. The result was an incredibly successful one gaining nods of approval even from non-Bulgari fans. It was quite obvious that whatever they did, they did it right and it prompted Bulgari to develop the line further, releasing a stainless steel band version and this year, the Octo Chronograph.

The original Octo has a simple dial with only hour, minute, second hands and a small date display window. The minimalism tends to emphasize the character of the case even more. With 110 facets made up of separate angular surfaces, edges and planes which have all been hand-finished, the watch has a dynamic look while the circular bezel anchors and balances all the action in the case. Viewing the case at any angle, you will see cuts, shadows and flat surfaces that give you constantly changing view depending on your vantage point.

The angular shaped lugs are more streamlined and provide a seamless extension of the case as well as keep a close fit of the strap or band. The black ceramic crown has a functional octagonal grip that makes winding the watch an effortless task. The backside of the watch consists of a sapphire crystal caseback which displays the movement, the BVL 193 Caliber, fitted with twin barrels, a 50 hour power reserve.

This entry level Octo sports a smaller thinner case at 41.5mm wide and 10.55mm thick in size compared to Bulgari’s previous Octo models and is available in stainless steel as well as rose gold but I wouldn’t be surprised to see it in other metals in the future. Assembly of both case and movement plus case polishing are all carried out in-house.

Geometry of Perfection

The octagon shape embodies a great deal of meaning throughout various cultures and disciplinaries. It’s symbolic of themes like rebirth, infinity and totality. In baptisteries, the octagon was a shape that represented the idea of eternal life since the number eight is symbolic of renewal. Many of the architectural elements found in religious buildings such as churches and temples consisted of octogonal structures supporting a dome above. The interplay between the circle and square which makes up the octagon reflects a symmetrical balance between the elegance in fluidity and the starkness and strength of angularity.

In engineering terms it is known as the geometry of perfection, where curved edges meet straight edges. “In Eastern philosophy the circle historically represents heaven and the square earth, with the octagon being the perfect balance between the two and where the eight pillars of personality meet.”

Significance in the Chinese Culture

It is no surprise that the number eight has cultural significance  and appeal in Asian societies. Eight is symbolic of good fortune and prosperity and is often sought out in various forms from license plates, house numbers and phone numbers.

Bulgari is a brand that has a great deal of prestige and popularity in Asia so there were added advantages to expanding the Octo line over Genta’s other models like the Arena or Gefica. By emphasizing the watch’s 8-sided attribute in its descriptions and marketing scripts, Bulgari likely figured that it had a good chance of gaining appeal from one of its strongest markets. It will be interesting to see how Bulgari intends to  further develop the Octo case and line of watches in a creatively captivating manner.   

Without a doubt, the octagonal theme that started in the 1970s and is a central feature in this new extension of the Octo line will ensure that the watch is a sure success in the vast Chinese market. However Bulgari’s elegant and modern approach in styling the case will give the watch universal appeal as well.

Stay tuned for reviews of the dial and bracelet!