The iconic Bvlgari Serpenti gets the haute horlogerie treatment from MB&F
Celebrated for its serpentine designs, the Bvlgari Serpenti showcases the Italian brand’s bold crafstmanship combined with exquisite materials such as gold, diamonds, and colourful gemstones. Founded in 2005, MB&F is one of the world’s leading independent watchmakers best known for its three-dimensional kinetic wrist sculptures. Given that this is the Year of the Snake, how apt is it that it has been tasked with reinterpreting the Serpenti into its own vision? The result is a stunning three-model collection, each limited to 33 pieces.
“Our collaboration is unique in the watch world because it bridges the two souls of our maisons and gives birth to a timeless treasure—a true collectible piece. The first-ever truly genderless Serpenti resonates with both contemporary gentlemen and ladies. It shows that superlative watchmaking can be generated by the unexpected pooling of talents like Max (Büsser) and Fabrizio (Buonamassa Stigliani, Bvlgari Horlogerie’s product creation executive director),” said Jean-Christophe Babin, CEO of Bvlgari.
Read more: Lessons in watch entrepreneurship, according to MB&F founder Maximilian Büsser
Bvlgari x MB&F Serpenti in stainless steel, rose gold, and titanium
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Taking its design cues from the shape of the snake’s head, the case features numerous complex curves from the metal to the five sapphire crystals that include the snake’s eyes and rear. The latter features a unique stepped crystal that resembles either the scales of snake skin or the rear window of a sports car, depending on your perception.
Büsser described the process as extremely challenging. “The intricate case is entirely machined with 5-axis 3D mills and holds the five sapphire crystals which were not only extremely complicated to make but equally challenging to fit due to the curved nature of the case and the desire for a water resistance of 30m,” he said.
See also: Richard Mille’s RM 16-02 pays homage to Brutalist design
