Bvlgari x MB&F Serpenti: A Fusion of Haute Horlogerie and Automotive Design
In their latest venture, Bvlgari and MB&F have masterfully reimagined the iconic Serpenti watch, marking their second collaboration to push the boundaries of traditional watchmaking. This innovative creation transforms Bvlgari’s quintessential snake-inspired design into a wearable piece of art that combines both functionality and cutting-edge style.
Innovative Design and Mechanical Mastery
The Bvlgari x MB&F Serpenti watch is not just a timepiece, but more like a sculpture for the wrist. Available in three distinct materials—18K rose gold, grade 5 titanium, and black PVD-coated stainless steel—each variant is limited to 33 pieces. The design features a bold 39mm width, 53mm length, and 18mm thickness, with a case that evokes the fluidity of a snake coupled with the sleek lines reminiscent of a sports car.
The innovative dual crowns at 11 and 1 o’clock, designed to resemble car wheels, are a nod to the shared automotive passion of Fabrizio Buonamassa Stigliani, Bvlgari Product Creation Executive Director, and Max Büsser, founder of MB&F. This model transitions from their previous focus on women’s high-jewelry pieces to a more masculine and universally appealing design, reflecting a significant shift in aesthetic direction.
Advanced Horological Features
The core of the Serpenti timepiece is its manual-wound movement, closely based on MB&F’s HM10 Bulldog but beautifully adapted to fit the unique serpentine design. A standout feature is the suspended 14mm balance wheel, visible through five sapphire windows, beating at 2.5Hz. These components not only enhance the watch’s mechanical intrigue but also ensure a water resistance of up to 30 meters.
The aluminum domes for the hour and minute displays are treated with Super-LumiNova, glowing in darker settings to mimic the mesmerizing eyes of a snake. This design choice underscores the thematic alignment of the Serpenti’s aesthetic with the animalistic features it draws inspiration from.
Exclusivity and Price Point
Priced at $148,000 for the titanium and black PVD versions and $170,000 for the rose gold edition, the Bvlgari x MB&F Serpenti positions itself as a unique timepiece combining exquisite craftsmanship with innovative design. With only 99 pieces available across all variants, it is more of a collectible haute horlogerie.
Conclusion
The Bvlgari x MB&F Serpenti redefines what a luxury watch can embody, merging traditional elegance with modern innovation. This timepiece is more than just a watch; it is a statement of artistic and mechanical prowess that will undoubtedly captivate both watch enthusiasts and collectors alike.