Horological Machine: Bvlgari x MB&F
Two worlds with an unexpected connection
Bvlgari and MB&F have unveiled the result of their second collaborative timepiece. Since 2005, MB&F (Maximilian Büsser & Friends) has been reinterpreting watchmaking traditions, creating three-dimensional kinetic wrist sculptures. These horological machines are brought to life through partnerships with the brand’s "friends" and draw inspiration from diverse themes such as science fiction, supercars, and the animal kingdom.
Jean-Christophe Babin, CEO of Bvlgari Group, comments: "Watchmaking is about innovation and desirability, which stems from the magical fusion of outstanding micromechanical expertise and timeless, breathtaking design. In challenging times, brands must push boundaries and dare to innovate under the leadership of managers and designers obsessed with progress, beauty, and strategic vision. That’s exactly what we’ve achieved with MB&F — a brand that shares our core values."
photo: Bvlgari Press Service
Fabrizio Buonamassa Stigliani, Bvlgari’s Director of Watch Design, and Maximilian Büsser, Founder and Creative Director of MB&F, decided to reinvent one of Bvlgari’s most iconic creations: the Serpenti. First introduced in 1948, the Serpenti has become synonymous with eternal rebirth and daring metamorphosis. Together, the two creatives merged this timeless symbol with MB&F’s mechanical universe of high watchmaking, giving the Bvlgari x MB&F Serpenti a tangible new form.
Reinterpreting the Serpenti within the framework of the Horological Machine required a complete reengineering of its mechanism, case design, and overall concept.
photo: Bvlgari Press Service
"At MB&F, we specialize in kinetic sculptures that tell time — so, by definition, this challenge was right up our alley. However, the biomorphic design of this timepiece presented enormous difficulties in both case structure and movement," explains Maximilian Büsser. "The intricate case was entirely crafted using 5-axis 3D milling machines and features five sapphire crystals — not only exceptionally complex to produce but equally challenging to fit, given the curved form and our goal of achieving 30-meter water resistance."
Flipping the watch over reveals the power reserve indicator, along with glimpses of the 310 hand-finished components. Due to the intricate craftsmanship involved, MB&F’s watchmakers can assemble only six to eight Bvlgari x MB&F Serpenti movements per month, meaning that completing the full run of 99 pieces will take more than a year.
photo: Bvlgari Press Service
The collection offers three distinct versions, each limited to 33 pieces: The first, housed in Grade 5 titanium with mesmerizing blue domes for the hours and minutes; The second, crafted in 18-karat rose gold with vivid green eyes; The third, in stainless steel with a black PVD finish, featuring piercing red eyes.
MB&F and Bvlgari have combined their creative forces to craft an avant-garde serpent that promises to captivate collectors and enthusiasts alike.
