Introducing the Bulgari x Phillips Octo Finissimo Special Edition

Unlike all previous Octo Finissimo models, the latest from Phillips has a symmetrical dial thanks to the elimination of the seconds at seven o’clock. That seems to be the final piece of the puzzle given that the Octo Finissimo is strictly geometrical and highly symmetrical in all aspects save for the dial.

For the overall design, Phillips resorts to an ever-popular “sector” layout, albeit one that’s done with flair. For example, the dial mimics a two-piece construction made of a top layer that’s hollowed out to reveal the brown background, but it’s actually one piece that’s laser engraved and finished in contrasting colours.

In terms of material, this new Octo Finissimo is dressed in sand-blasted titanium, which is identical to the original that was launched in 2014. Interestingly, inside the watch is also the original, first-generation BVL 138, which has a smaller balance and rotor than the more recent version of the movement. While the newer version is technically superior in winding efficiency and timekeeping, the first-generation has a more nuanced and attractive layout – and the original is always the coolest.