Bvlgari’s latest release, the Octo Roma World Timer SG60, is more than just another travel companion—it’s a cultural tribute to Singapore and a bold display of horological refinement. Designed for collectors who navigate time zones and aesthetics with equal precision, this limited edition brings a vibrant touch to the already compelling Octo Roma lineup.
Bvlgari and the Octo Roma: When Architecture Meets Horology
Founded in 1884, Bvlgari is a name that straddles the worlds of jewelry, watchmaking, and Italian design with rare confidence. While the brand is often associated with Roman opulence, its recent watchmaking ventures have firmly placed it on the map of serious haute horlogerie. The Octo Roma collection, launched as a more versatile sibling to the ultra-thin Octo Finissimo, reflects this ambition. Its architectural DNA, inspired by Roman geometry, is balanced with wearable proportions and technical legitimacy. With the World Timer complication, Bvlgari injects both utility and artistry into this already rich design language.
A Technical Take on Global Timekeeping
The Octo Roma World Timer SG60 is housed in a 41mm stainless steel case with a black DLC coating, offering a modern stealth aesthetic. The geometry of the case—defined by its 58 facets—remains unmistakably Octo, but softened slightly in the Roma variant to enhance wearability. The crown is screw-down, ensuring the watch’s 100m water resistance, making it just as comfortable in the boardroom as on the beach.
Powering the watch is the BVL257 in-house automatic movement, developed and manufactured by Bvlgari. Beating at 28,800 vibrations/hour, this calibre offers a 42-hour power reserve and supports a world time function that displays 24 global cities, adjusted easily via the crown without requiring additional pushers. For the SG60 edition, Singapore replaces Beijing on the dial, positioned proudly at 6 o’clock—a subtle but significant tribute. The black dial features concentric circles with contrasting red-orange accents for Singapore and a matte finishing that enhances legibility.
Designed for the Global Citizen
This watch speaks to those who live between time zones but value rootedness. The SG60 edition pays homage to Singapore’s 60th National Day with tasteful details, yet avoids slipping into novelty. The choice of colors—black, red, and orange—evokes both energy and sophistication, while the clean legibility of the world time layout makes it genuinely useful for frequent travelers.
Despite its bold aesthetic, the Octo Roma World Timer remains comfortable on the wrist, thanks to its integrated rubber strap and relatively slim profile. It feels equally appropriate with a linen shirt in the tropics or a tailored suit on a long-haul flight. The balanced proportions and smart use of color ensure it never feels overdesigned, which is no small feat for a commemorative piece.
Final Thoughts: A Limited Edition with Enduring Appeal
The Bvlgari Octo Roma World Timer SG60 successfully blends heritage, modernity, and local homage into a package that feels far more than a limited-edition exercise. With only 60 pieces produced, it will appeal to collectors drawn to purposeful design, independent movements, and cultural significance. Priced at $14,140 SGD (approx. $11,070 USD), it represents fair value for an in-house world timer in a sculptural case with a strong narrative.
Availability is limited to select Bvlgari boutiques in Southeast Asia, making it a fittingly exclusive celebration for a city that embodies global elegance with local soul. And as always, watches like these remind us: the most meaningful timepieces are those that carry a sense of place and purpose. If you like these colors hues, you should really take a look at Panerai’s Luminor Luna Rossa series.
