The collaboration of Bulgari x MB&F Serpenti has culminated in a timepiece that transcends traditional horology, combining two iconic brands’ mastery in design and mechanical engineering. This unique watch reimagines Bulgari’s signature Serpenti design, known for its symbolism of rebirth and transformation. It infuses it with MB&F’s futuristic approach to timepieces. The result is a kinetic sculpture that is as much an art piece as it is a functional timekeeping tool. With only 99 pieces produced across three limited editions, this collaboration will undoubtedly become a prized collector’s item.
The first edition features a grade 5 titanium case with blue hour and minute domes ($147,468), while the second comes in 18K rose gold, highlighted by green domes ($166,000), and the third edition is crafted from black PVD-coated stainless steel with red accents ($147,468). Each watch is meticulously crafted with five sapphire crystals treated with an anti-reflective coating, allowing the wearer to see the intricate workings of the movement through an open-case design. This level of transparency showcases the cutting-edge, in-house, manual-winding movement developed by MB&F, a masterpiece of engineering and precision.
Inside the case lies the bespoke flying 14mm balance wheel, floating above the rotating aluminum hour and minute domes. The left dome completes one full rotation in 12 hours, while the right dome rotates every 60 minutes, giving the watch a dynamic and captivating look. These paper-thin domes are machined from solid aluminum to ensure the lightest possible weight, allowing optimal movement and fluidity. Both domes are adorned with hand-applied Super-LumiNova, ensuring the snake’s eyes glow brilliantly in the dark.
The movement is housed within a meticulously designed case that pushes the boundaries of traditional watchmaking. The case features a series of complex curves, a challenge that required advanced machining techniques, including 5-axis 3D milling. Another significant achievement was the engineering required to ensure water resistance of 30 meters while maintaining the integrity of the design. The result is a truly durable timepiece that combines performance and aesthetics.
The Serpenti’s design process was no easy feat. Hundreds of sketches and dozens of 3D-printed models were produced to perfect the look, ensuring that every angle of the watch was as visually satisfying as it was functional. This design is a tribute to the historical legacy of the Serpenti collection, originally introduced in 1948, but with a modern twist that emphasizes precision, innovation, and craftsmanship. The case, inspired by automotive design, incorporates elements like stepped sapphire crystals that resemble the flaps of a sports car’s rear window and crowns that evoke car wheels. The mechanical movement is equally inspired by the intricacies of an automobile engine, with elements like the grille and hexagonal scale motif reflecting the evolution of the Serpenti from a feminine symbol to a powerhouse of technical craftsmanship.
This collaboration between Bulgari and MB&F is a clear testament to the passion and artistry of both companies and their ability to push the boundaries of what’s possible in watchmaking. The Serpenti is not only a watch; it’s a piece of functional art—a true fusion of design, craftsmanship, and innovation that brings the timeless snake to life.
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