Bet on black with the Bulgari Bulgari ref. 103540 for Father’s Day

Ricardo Sime

Forget the ties, the socks and all those “gifts” you had lined up for this coming Father’s Day (which is this Sunday in Australia). Bulgari is mixing things up a bit by way of their newly released Father’s Day Gift Guide (which can be found here). Highlighted in the guide is a mixture of jewellery and watches that are sure to grab dad’s attention. From black onyx and gold cuff links, to the classic Bulgari Aluminum Chronograph watch; there is a full array of eye candy on display.

The Bulgari Bulgari watch first hit the scene in 1977. It was designed by none other than the great Gerald Genta and was the brand’s first watch marketed towards males. Pulling from the history of Rome, Genta styled the watch after the coins of roman emperors; coins that emphatically decreed to all individuals exactly who was in charge. By double stamping the brand name on the bezel, it reinforced the fact that you were buying into what Bulgari stood for as a brand and that you were emphatically letting the world know it.

Some people may not fancy the bold approach of the double stamped design. And on a gold bezel, such a design cue is hard to miss. Yet on this reference, the all black diamond-like carbon coated case tones things down. The bezel becomes just another design element and not a statement. In person, the stainless steel indexes and hands simply overpower the bezel. In the end, you’ll find yourself more intrigued by how the polished and brushed surfaces are featured in the design; especially on the bracelet, where they play with light and make the watch come alive.

Beating inside the Bulgari Bulgari is the brand’s manufacture BVL 191 movement. It has a frequency rate of 28800 bph and 42 hours of power reserve. The 3.8mm thick movement can be seen through the sapphire crystal caseback, and has beautiful Côtes de Genève finishing. The date function here is quickset and the watch hacks (stops) for precise time setting.

In terms of generous Father’s Day gifts, you can’t go wrong with this reference. In this one watch, you get a historically significant, iconic design, in a modern, wearable aesthetic. The monochromatic dial also means the watch is extremely legible while a reasonable 41mm size ensures it will fit well on a majority of wrists.

Bulgari Bulgari ref. 103540 Pricing and Availability:

The Bulgari Bulgari black is available exclusively online on the brands website. Price is listed at $7450 AUD.