Watch of the Week: Bulgari Octa Roma Grande Sonnerie

While Bulgari has made quite a name for itself in recent years with record-breaking, ultra-thin watches, there are also other areas in which they excel. With the purchase of the esteemed independent brands Daniel Roth and Gerald Genta in 2000, Bulgari amassed even more knowledge about creating high-end complications and has done so ever since. The Octa Roma Grande Sonnerie is an excellent example of this, dedicated to bringing the most beautiful sound, both visual as well as audible.

By Martin Green

Patek Philippe Ref. 6301P Grande Sonnerie; The Chime Is Right

Perfection often looks simple, but it rarely is. This is also the case with the new Patek Philippe Ref. 6301P Grande Sonnerie. The watch is generously sized, measuring 44.8 mm in diameter, yet rather restraint in its design. Close observation will learn that it is rich in detail, as the platinum case has a subtle concave bezel and stunning countersunk flanks. The black dial is also a thing of beauty, as it is made from Grand Feu enamel, fitted with gold Breguet numerals. Interesting is that the traditional gold leaf-shaped hands feature a luminescent coating. It is a subtle detail, but it gives this classic watch a slight contemporary edge while making it more practical as well.

Into The Complex World Of The Bulgari Octo Grande Sonnerie

Ultra-thin is not the only name of the game at Bulgari, as they also master that of ultra-complex watches. The Octo Grande Sonnerie Perpetual Calendar is a perfect example of this. Housed in their signature Octo case, they equipped an automatic movement with a tourbillon, which is also fitted with grande and petite sonnerie, as well as a minute repeater.