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Bvlgari & MB&F Reimagine the Iconic Serpenti

Collaborations in watchmaking often bring together the creativity of a brand and its chosen partner, whether they be artists, athletes, or designers. However, it’s far rarer to see two well-known watchmaking powerhouses join forces. The partnership between Bvlgari and MB&F is a fascinating case, as both brands serve as creative forces in the industry with anything they put their hands on. 

Their latest collaboration, the Bvlgari x MB&F Serpenti, follows their 2021 partnership, which resulted in the MB&F x Bvlgari LM FlyingT Allegra launched at Dubai Watch Week. This time, the two brands reinterpret Bvlgari’s iconic Serpenti through the mechanical artistry of MB&F’s horological machines, merging biomorphic design with high-complication watchmaking in a way that only they can.

Glossary

Perlage

Perlage is a decorative technique used in high-end watchmaking, particularly on the movements of mechanical watches. This intricate hand-finishing method involves creating tiny, overlapping circular patterns on surfaces such as bridges, plates, and even the inside of the caseback. These circular motifs not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the movement but also serve a functional purpose by helping to prevent corrosion. 

The patterns are created using a rotating tool, often by hand, and require a delicate touch to achieve uniform, concentric circles. While primarily decorative, the quality of the perlage can serve as an indicator of the overall craftsmanship of the movement. Well-executed perlage demonstrates the skill of the watchmaker and often signifies attention to detail in the finer aspects of the timepiece.