Russell Sheldrake
It’s a brave man who tries to rethink the icon, but in Bvlgari they don’t seem to turn away from the challenge. Serpenti has been an iconic form of the Roman brand for decades, and its recognizable snake head, often combined with a tube gas bracelet, has been seen for generations from the ballroom to the silver screen. So why ruin it? Well, the world is not stationary and shouldn’t be designed either, and the new Serpenti Aeterna is a testament to that, especially after seeing the brand’s radical collaboration with MB&F. Let’s dig into something that makes up a little more of this new angle design.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kftyallxv5s
Case and bracelet
I’m putting together the case and bracelet here. They feel like one continuous piece in this bangle, from their pointed nose to their slim tail. Available in either rose or white gold, this is probably the most stripped version of the snake we’ve ever seen. The combined case and bracelet are covered in diamonds, forming a solid bangle with hinged bottom. There are only half the roses and the diamonds wrap around the entire white gold piece. The bracelet tapers in a lovely way that makes this bangle feel even more elegant, with a slight twist that makes it sit neatly on the wrist, passing the snake’s head.
Diamond plays a big role in this watch, with fairly comprehensive coverage across the case, bracelet and dial. Even the rose gold version of the crown has a large ornate cut at its top, a small circle of stones around its perimeter, and the white gold has an emerald above the crown. That white gold piece features many extra-sized diamonds set on a bracelet, with that extra sparkle. The bangle’s inner surface has a hexagonal motif cut, evoking the scale of the previous edition.
Dial
The dials on both pieces are pave sets with vibrant cut diamonds, giving edge-to-edge coverage. The rose gold pieces have a contrasting green hand while the rose-plated hand matches. These arrow-shaped dials are much sharper than previous versions, prioritizing styling over functionality. Without markers or indicators on the dial, these stones can shine to the fullest. Reading the time in this piece can be a little difficult, but you can’t mistake the style and elegance of this watch that can achieve.
Movement
Inside is a tiny tiny quartz calibre that allows this elegant design to stick to functional concepts. Has this watch been improved in my eyes if there was mechanical movement inside? not much. This is a watch that states you probably don’t wear every day. So for me, the quartz movement is perfect for this as there’s no need to worry about being left over for a long time between various flashy features.
verdict
This is a whole new look for a watch that has long had a fairly consistent design, and whenever it happens, it always ruffles some feathers (or scale). But here, Bvlgari has removed many of the features that make this design so boiling and eye-catching, creating something that feels like part of the snakehouse, but the design is not lazy. This watch is an excellent example of bringing you a new life by incorporating well-known designs, and that’s why I’m a huge fan of this watch.
Bvlgari serpenti aeterna price and availability
Bvlgari Serpenti Aeterna is currently available from the brand and its retailers. Price: on request
Brand Bvlgari Model Serpenti aeterna Bracelet Dimensions 145mm or 155mm Case Material 18k Rose or White Gold Water Resistance Not listed
