Bulgari holds a unique place in the world of haute horlogerie. From its manufacture in Neuchâtel it creates innovative watchmaking that more than rivals its Swiss counterparts. However, this technical timekeeping is paired with a distinct Italian flair that makes its creations truly like none other.

The Octo Finissimo is a case in point in how the maison blends its considerable expertise and eye for design to create timepieces that deliver not only on style, but break multiple world records. Its accolades speak for themselves: since the line was launched in 2014 it has taken seven such titles. These include the thinnest tourbillon in 2014, the thinnest minute repeater in 2016, the thinnest automatic watch in 2017, the thinnest automatic tourbillon in 2018, the thinnest automatic chronograph in 2019, the thinnest tourbillon chronograph in 2020 and this year the thinnest perpetual calendar.

Its astoundingly svelte silhouette only adds to both the visual appeal and wearability of these watches. Its now-iconic shape, blending a circular form with the angular lines of the eight-sided bezel, draws inspiration from the geometry found in the historic architecture of Bulgari’s native Rome. And underneath the purity of this minimalist design lies technical complexity, an expression of Bulgari’s philosophy of Estetica della Meccanica, where function and form come together in perfect harmony.

This year sees a number of new additions that add a new dimension to the line, while retaining the sophisticated-yet-sporty appeal that has made it such a horological hit. Last year saw the launch of the Octo Finissimo S, a stainless-steel model that despite being equipped with the thinnest automatic movement, a feat in itself, also offered a water resistance of 100 metres. This is thanks to slightly increasing the case size and adding a screw-down crown. It is now presented in a striking monochromatic version that further adds to the contemporary look of the watch, achieved with a new silver vertical-brushed dial.

Dialling up the complexity further is the Octo Finissimo S Chronograph GMT. It comes powered by the in-house BVL 318, an ultra-thin calibre measuring in at just 3.3mm thick, including a clever mechanism that, along with the chronograph, allows for the second time to be displayed on the sub-counter at 3 o’clock. In line with the rest of the Octo Finissimo S line, the versatile design features a larger screw-down crown to ensure its water resistance. Meanwhile the world’s thinnest automatic chronograph – the Octo Finissimo Chronograph GMT Titanium – gets a sleek makeover with a sporty new rubber strap and bold black dial, providing an eye-catching contrast to the titanium case, chosen for both its lightweight and robust properties.

The spectacular thinness of these timepieces, and the attention to detail that goes into every element from the case to the movement, best comes to life when experienced in person. Bulgari is offering a rare opportunity to discover these new timepieces and much more at a special pop-up in the Watches of Switzerland boutique in Broadgate, City of London. Running until 30 November, it highlights the sheer breadth of Bulgari’s horological expertise in a stunning display that ranges from complicated mechanical marvels to the maison’s spectacular Serpenti watches.

The Bulgari pop-up runs until 30 November at Watches of Switzerland Broadgate, Liverpool Street Octagon Mall, London EC2M 2AU; bulgari.com