Bvlgari's new "Octo Finissimo Perpetual Calendar Tantalum" is up for auction on Only Watch

Bvlgari has announced the unique Octo Finissimo Perpetual Calendar Tantalum, which will be exhibited at Only Watch in 2021. Despite using tantalum, which is difficult to process, for the exterior, the watch has a complex case shape.

First time participating in Only Watch

　This year, Bvlgari will be participating for the first time in the Only Watch charity auction, which aims to support research into Duchenne muscular dystrophy. The auction, which began in 2005 and is held every two years, is supported by numerous brands. Each brand will offer a unique piece, with the proceeds donated to the Monaco Association for Muscular Dystrophy.

A unique piece with a tantalum case

　The unique "Octo Finissimo Perpetual Calendar Tantalum" that Bvlgari has announced will be on display at Only Watch is an extremely rare model with a dark blue base. This model is based on the new "Octo Finissimo Perpetual Calendar" from 2021, which set the brand's seventh world record for thinness of the case, and features a new exterior.

　While the base model used a titanium or platinum case, this new model uses tantalum. Tantalum, which has rarely been used for watch cases, is a special metal that is corrosion-resistant and highly biocompatible. Its density is approximately 16.6g/cm², making it twice as heavy as steel.

　Tantalum, which is about twice as hard as titanium, is also an extremely difficult material to machine. Machining requires careful consideration of the machine program, the equipment used, and the rotation speed of the milling tool. Cutting tantalum takes about four times as long as cutting 18K gold. The multifaceted case of the Octo Finissimo shows just how difficult this machining process is.

　To match the bluish tantalum, the dial and strap are navy blue. The layout of the displays on the dial is the same as the base model, but what is noteworthy is the month display. The "NOV" that represents November has been changed to "NOW" in this model, with only the O and W being orange. This is taken from the first letters of "Only Watch," and creates a playful and special feel.

　The 2021 Only Watch event is scheduled to take place on November 6th. Who will get this one-of-a-kind piece?