Octo Chronograph Quadri-Retro

Bulgari Octo Chronograph Quadri-Retro steel/ceramics: the structured power of contemporary Haute Horlogerie

Sturdy yet serene strength, a beautifully structured octagonal case evoking a sophisticated construction... The new Bulgari Octo Chronograph Quadri-Retro, Gerald Genta Collection, crafted in steel and ceramics, symbolises tranquil strength, aesthetic refinement and micromechanical sophistication.

This new model released in 2011 expresses continuity in two different respects. While the Octo Chronograph Quadri-Retro steel/ceramics embodies the long-lasting elegance of a unique style based on the inimitable octagonal-shaped signature, it also asserts its contemporary Haute Horlogerie values through the mechanical heart beating inside. 

Sophisticated Haute Horlogerie movement

Featuring a decidedly sporting spirit and a resolutely modern shape, this creation houses a sophisticated Haute Horlogerie movement, Calibre GG7800, which is simply unique in its kind within the circle of excellence of complication movements due to the highly graphic arrangement of the various time-measurement displays.

This beautifully crafted and highly distinctive proprietary movement lines up four retrograde functions: minutes, date and chronograph hour and minute counters. It also provides a jumping-hour display through a window at 12 o'clock, whereas the chronograph central direct-drive seconds hand is positioned in an unusual spot at 6 o'clock. This choice ensures the hour indication is never hidden from view.

This exceptional yet traditionally built column-wheel chronograph calibre is treated to finishes epitomising horological excellence and accommodated within an imposing 45 mm-diameter steel case. The two chronograph pushpieces controlling the stop/start and reset functions, respectively positioned at 2 and 4 o'clock, are perfectly integrated within the case middle to form a distinct facet. This construction respects the foundations of the octagonal-shaped design, by enabling them to discreetly frame and protect the crown set with a ceramics cabochon.

Structured overall effect

The highly sophisticated dial is crafted in-house according to the extremely ancient cloisonné technique. It calls for a number of successive stages – including milling the recesses into which the lacquer is applied, varnishing, smoothing the surfaces, refiring the lacquer and polishing – resulting in the creation of a totally unique dial. The various display zones compose a beautifully structured overall effect combining a jet black background, silvered segments and black arcs of a circle with a chapter ring at 12 o'clock, the date at 6 o'clock, and chronograph hour and minute counters at 9 and 3 o'clock respectively.