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Bvlgari Introduces the Octo Finissimo Dual-Time with a Vianney Halter Steampunk Aesthetic
The Bulgari Octo Finissimo Dual Time x Vianney Halter is a collaboration on the inside and the outside.
For collectors, what separates Geneva Watch Days is its sense of discovery. The open, informal nature of the event lets guests mingle with both independent and established brands to “try on” new watches.
But it’s not just about enthusiasts building new relationships with brands. More brands are pairing up for exciting collaborations. And one of the most intriguing collaborations coming out of this year’s Geneva Watch Days is the Bvlgari Octo Finissimo Dual Time x Vianney Halter.
Titan of Titanium
Bvlgari is representing at Geneva Watch Days with four new creations. Each aims to elevate titanium as a material (this is a recurring theme in watchmaking in general) as “an artistic signature, a deliberate choice.”
First off, the brand presented Octo Finissimo Dazzle with a laser-engraved surface. Then there is the Bvlgari Titanio Chronograph and Titanio GMT– two titanium reinterpretations of the classic Aluminium collection. However, today, we’re here to talk about the Octo Finissimo Dual Time x Vianney Halter.
According to Bulgari’s press office, “For us, innovation is not only about technical achievement, but also about giving every watch its own identity while remaining true to the Maison’s vision.” Thus, not only does this mash-up radically impact the look of the Octo, but it is also the first time Bulgari has partnered with another watchmaker on the movement.
The shape of the titanium case is instantly recognizable as an Octo. But the dial features the unique steampunk aesthetic of independent watchmaker Vianney-Halter (notably the porthole displays of the groundbreaking Antiqua).
Its four windows open on opaline white dials – the Roman watchmaker’s emblematic color – as well as other signatures such as shaped hands in blue, a red arrow seconds hand, and a rotor engraved with Vianney Halter’s signature. The result is a rare balance in which each detail feels at home in both the Bvlgari and Vianney Halter universes.
And it’s apparent that the two teams also had fun with this watch. Co-designed by Fabrizio Buonamassa Stigliani, Product Creation Executive Director at Bvlgari, and Vianney Halter, this timepiece explores brave new worlds – a retrofuture somewhere between the science fiction past and future, inspired by both Jules Verne and precision engineering.
“The Octo Finissimo, with its specific aesthetic and technical mastery, made the challenge even more compelling,” said Vianney Halter in a press release for the launch. “Adapting to Bvlgari’s essence while integrating my own style and mechanical ideas is a stimulating exercise, especially when the dialogue is fluid and engaging.”
Vianney Halter also describes the project as the perfect definition of a collaboration.
All Together
Manufactured in-house across both Bvlgari’s Saignelégier and Le Sentier workshops, this timepiece is powered by the new BVF 200 calibre. This is essentially the BVL 138 calibre updated with specific modules developed for this limited edition.
Integrating the GMT, date, and day/night functions posed many technological challenges to achieve perfect homogeneity across four distinct displays on the dial. Of course, the Octo has already broken many records for thinness, but further miniaturization was required to include these functions, as were entirely dedicated manufacturing tools.
Despite this complexity, the watch preserves the Octo Finissimo’s signature proportions: a 40.5mm diameter and 9.7mm of thickness. The automatic winding with a micro-rotor BVF 200 calibre itself measures in at 5.49mm. And it delivers 60 hours of power reserve.
The joint design by Fabrizio Buonamassa Stigliani and Vianney Halter takes the Octo Finissimo into uncharted territory – a retrofuture somewhere between the Victorian era and science fiction, inspired by Jules Verne and precision engineering.
As Buonamassa Stigliani also commented in the press release, “Collaborations are always interesting from a creative and personal perspective. You must decide what you are willing to give and what you are willing to receive, and in this regard, the personal relationship that develops is one of the key elements.”
But the ultimate collaborator for the Octo Finissimo Dual Time x Vianney Halter is the collector.
Final Thoughts
Both the aesthetics and the technological achievements of Bvlgari and Vianney Halter have built a fantastic reputation amongst enthusiasts. Being able to integrate new functions into an ultra-thin movement makes it even more desirable.
Limited to just 30 pieces each, the watch comes in two exclusive versions. The first, crafted in brushed titanium, lends the watch a cool, contemporary elegance that highlights the richness of its four opaline dials. It is complemented by a matching brushed titanium integrated bracelet with a deployant clasp. Priced at CHF 70,000.
The second is crafted in warm, polished pink gold, bringing a rich and sophisticated elegance to the watch, and is paired with a refined brown alligator bracelet. Like GWD, it beautifully encapsulates a moment when watch lovers come together to share a passion and celebrate the craft. Priced at CHF 108,000.
For more information, including price, check out Bvlgari’s website.
Specifications
Functions
Hours, minutes, small seconds, GMT, date, and day & night
Movement
Self-winding movement with manufacture BVF 200 calibre
Case
40.50 mm × 9.70 mm extra-thin rose gold case
Buckle
Rose gold ardillon buckle
Strap
Brown alligator strap
Water resistance
30 metres (3 ATM)
Year
2026
Reference number
104355
Price
CHF 108'000.00
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