Phoebe Waller-Bridge wears vintage Bulgari Serpenti Tubogas during BBC “Unpopular Opinions” segment
Zach BlassPhoebe Waller-Bridge is a powerhouse comedic talent. The writer and actor masterminded the critically acclaimed television series Fleabag, produced and wrote the hit series Killing Eve, voiced the droid L3-37 in the Star Wars film Solo: A Star Wars Story, and was brought on as contributor for the screenplay of the last James Bond film, No Time to Die. Her latest project is Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, in which she stars alongside Harrison Ford in the saga-ending film.
One of her latest stops on her press junket was a visit to the BBC Radio 1 Breakfast Show with Greg James. In a clip shared on YouTube, Waller-Bridge participates in a recurring game segment of the show called “Unpopular Opinions” where British listeners share their hot takes – with Phoebe Waller-Bridge and host Greg James reacting to each take. And, in the moments she becomes animated in her reactions, the vintage Bulgari Serpenti Tubogas on her wrist peeks out beneath the cuff of her jacket.
The predominant male energy of watch enthusiasm may not cater to a deep knowledge of the history of the Serpenti, but it is important to note just how significant the Serpenti is for Bulgari. Yes, the brand has made record-breaking strides with their Octo Finissimo collection, garnering increasing respect amongst watch enthusiasts. The Serpenti watch, however, dates all the way back to 1948 and is emblematic of why the brand have long been known as the ‘Roman Jeweller of Time.’
The vintage Bulgari Serpenti Tubogas on Waller-Bridge’s wrist is approximately from the ’70s by my estimation, with the website 1stDibs who has one listed for sale here for US$32,500 labelling it as circa 1960-1980. The Tubogas, prior to its format today, was distinguished with the coiling bracelet that later led to the Serpenti name, but with a squared boxed-television like case. Bulgari today is known for their ultra-thin prowess, but their interest in ultra-thin is by no means limited to modern creations. Historically, references of the Tubogas like the one above, were realised through the case and bracelet manufacturing skill of Bulgari with the ultra-thin movement mastery of the watchmaker’s watchmaker: Jaeger-LeCoultre. This is why you can find Tubogas watches with dials signed by Jaeger-LeCoultre alone, Bulgari alone, or even dual-branded with both of the celebrated manufactures. There are even models in which Movado and Vacheron Constantin were enlisted for movements and dials as well.
As much as I admire the modern Bulgari Serpenti lineup, it is cool to see vintage references still being worn and cared for. I also like how Phoebe Waller-Bridge has worn the watch with a denim jacket, dispelling the notion the Serpenti is strictly a watch to be worn with gowns at a gala.
The best part of this spot though is the context of her watch choice given her new film. Think about it… What is the one thing Indiana Jones is most afraid of? SNAKES!