Bulgari Monete Watche an Ode to a Roman Emperor
Legendary Italian brand Bulgari have added two new pieces to its Monete collection that reference the ancient Greek and Roman coins that remain popular as jewellery motifs.
The pink gold Octo Finissimo Tourbillon Monete has a façade depicting a rare coin featuring Emperor Constantine I, the ruler who completed the construction of the Basilica of Maxentius in Rome.
The octagonal watch case shape is inspired by the octagonal coffering used in the construction of the Basilica. With a press of the crown, the watch opens to reveal the actual watch face. On the inside, Bulgari’s Finissimo Skeleton Flying Tourbillon movement is on display and flaunts the world’s thinnest tourbillon.
Meanwhile, the Monete Pendant Secret watch pays homage to Greece, with the coin on the front of the watch a silver tetradrachm depicting Alexander the Great and ringed by exquisite diamonds and rubies.
The pendant watch is powered by a skeletonized manual-winding gold tourbillon movement that can be exposed by lifting the coin cover. Other notable features include a chain comprised of large hexagonal links that are studded with diamonds and rubies.
Founded by Sotirios Voulgaris in 1884, Bulgari has grown to become one of the world’s most iconic fashion and jewellery brands.