A Closer Look at the Bulgari Gerald Genta 50th Anniversary Watch

The Bulgari watchmaking company is celebrating the 50th anniversary of a watch maker of great reputation. . They chose to do so with a unique new wristwatch they call the Bulgari Gerald Genta 50th Anniversary Watch. The special occasion timepiece is the re-visitation of an old classic crafted at the time that Gerald Genta and Daniel Roth were independent of one another. The watch is named after the creator of the original piece from which it takes inspiration. Gerald Genta was known for his adventurous spirit and willingness to take a risk to create unique if not novel design.This watch pays homage to his creation in a new iteration that is deserving of a closer look and a careful inspection.

The case

The case of the anniversary salute to Gerald Genta is crafted in a styling that is referred to as an Arena case. It was so dubbed to reflect the structure indicated. The diameter of the bi-retro case is 41 mm. It’s constructed of the luxury material platinum. The unique case styling features a coin-edge design in the middle, which is a lovely touch. When you flip the watch over, you discover a platinum case back which is covered with a clear flat sapphire crystal that reveals the inner mechanical workings of the movement. The back is also engraved with the model of the watch and other specifications.

The dial

Although we do see elements of Genta’s flair for the unusual in the dial, it’s a significantly toned-down version. The dial is presented in a blue lacquer in a deep cerulean blue coloring. It is here that the watch departs with a retrograde appearance and unique styling that places the sub dial as an addition at the six o’ clock position without borders, other than the bright white print of the indices in odd numbers ranging from one to thirty one. The edition Genta is displayed in the center of the sub dial, also in white for a brilliant effect against the deep blue background. The date window appears as a round circle immediately placed below the 12 o clock position with a brilliant white background which adds a pleasant yet small contrast that is just enough for the sake of uniqueness without appearing gaudy or overstated.

The movement

The movement that was chosen to power the Bulgari Gerald Genta 50th Anniversary watch is an in-house model of the Bulgari watchmaker referred to as the Bulgari Caliber BVL 300 with a Solotempo base. It’s a bi-directional winding style featuring a power reserve of approximately 42 hours. Perlage is applied th the movement plate by hand by the Bulgari staff of professional technicians. We instinctively understand that the designers and engineers take pride in their creations and they’re anxious to exhibit them through the clear case back which shows the finer points of the movement. The size of the movement measures 26.20 mm x 6.10 mm, and is complicated with the functions of jumping hours, a retrograde date and retrograde minutes. This modern movement beats at a rate of 28,800 vph which is now considered to be standard.

The strap

This special anniversary edition watch fastens to the wrist with a blue alligator strap which nicely complements the color of the impressive dial.

Price and Availability

The Bulgari Gérald Genta 50th Anniversary Watch is now available through the manufacturer and through select retailers. This high-end luxury 50th anniversary watch honors the contributions of Gerald Genta in a grand style that simply pays homage through a gentle nod to his unique sense of styling and boldness in expressing his artistic creativity. It offers simply just the flavor of Genta’s approach to design with enough of the elements to be recognizable, yet the edition has the capacity to stand on its own. The styling take a more subtle approach that offers a tip of the hat while establishing its own unique personality within the Bulgari lineup of fine timepieces. I exudes the impression of a clean and elegantly designed example with clean lines and elegance which follows the established lines set forth by the brand. It’s offered for a retail price of $59,000 for those who embrace a sense of adventure.