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The star of the catalog Bulgari, it is obviously the Octo Finissimo. And it is easy to understand why. But his little sister, theOcto Rome, has many arguments to make, starting with a more attractive price, while keeping the same identity in terms of design. But the Roma collection, released in 2012, probably needed new blood. And it is now done! On the sidelines of Watches & Wonders 2023, Bulgari is completely renewing the Octo Roma.
A design still going strong
Roma shares with the Octo Finissimo the same stylistic language. We find the very marked geometric shapesthere round glasses placed on a octagonal build, and the famous bracelet with extremely fine links. But compared to the flagship model, the angles are softened, the bracelet is a little less wide, and the Octo Roma gives a more elegant, more refined impression. And certainly easier to wear everyday.
Three models to date
Within the new Octo Roma collection, we first find the 3-hand models and date. Their case measures 41mm in diameter for only 9.15mm thick, thus remaining faithful to the extra-thin profile dear to the Octo models, and to the brand in general. But visually, the main change is on the dial, which now houses a clous de paris pattern. This novelty can divide, because we lose the minimalist side of the old Octo Roma, but we gain very flattering plays of light, and the Roma thus stands out a little more from the Finissimo. Three colors are available: white, gray and bluewhile for the bracelet, two options are available to you: the traditional steel strap and its characteristic design, or a new silicone strap. And to switch from one to the other, nothing could be simpler: a quick change system is now integrated. The kind of detail that we would like to find even more often, as it brings a real gain in versatility, by allowing the straps to be swapped in the blink of an eye. In addition, water resistance increases to 100m, thanks to a screw-down crown, compared to 50m for the older generation. Finally, on the mechanical side, the Octo Roma Date is equipped with the Manufacture caliber BVL191 : an automatic movement, which revolves around 26 jewels and which delivers 42 hours of power reserveat a rate of 28,800 vibrations per hour.
Two chronograph models
In addition to this, Bulgari also offers theOcto Roma in chronograph. A novelty for this collection, not really sport oriented. And yet, it suits him so well. In configuration with three counters and date at 4:30, the Roma offers a quite interesting interpretation of sport-chic. While keeping its characteristic design, this chronograph version adds a touch of sportiness which gives a new dimension to Roma, and which will undoubtedly appeal to a new audience. Compared to the Date models, the dimensions increase logically, but very reasonably, with a 42mm diameter for a 12.45mm thickness, which is a real achievement for an automatic timer. The Octo Roma is available in blue and black, and features the same Clous de Paris motif as the Date versions. And under the hood, we find the BVL399 Manufacture automatic caliberwhich offers 48 hours of power reserve.
To find out more, visit the Bulgari website.
