Description:
BULGARI-AUDEMARS PIGUET SERPENTI TUBOGAS REF. 8162BC
Bulgari, with its Greek origins, was founded by Sotirios Boulgaris, who settled in Italy in 1884, establishing it as a jewelry house. Serpenti designs originated in the 1940s, crafted by Sotirios Boulgaris himself. Employing the Tubogas technique, reminiscent of ancient Roman jewelry, the designs embraced the wearer’s wrist or neck. The inaugural Serpenti watch emerged in the late 1940s, flaunting a coiled snake design and symbolizing elegance. Collaborating with esteemed manufacturers like Jaeger-LeCoultre, Vacheron Constantin, and Audemars Piguet, Bulgari integrated high-quality movements. Over time, Bulgari refined the Serpenti watch collection, introducing novel designs, materials, and technical advancements, including the iconic Tubogas bracelet in the 1960s. The vintage Bulgari Serpenti watches are highly coveted and considered rare collectibles. These timepieces are regarded as true works of art.
The present Bulgari timepiece is a remarkable example from the 20th century, belonging to the Serpenti Tubogas collection. Its exceptional rarity sets it apart, as the Serpenti Tubogas watches were meticulously handcrafted and produced in limited quantities. Adding to its uniqueness, this particular watch features a double signature on the dial. Both the Bulgari and Audemars Piguet signatures are present because the movement inside this exquisite piece is an Audemars Piguet handwound calibre, operated by a crown on the right side of the rectangular case. Further enhancing its desirability, the case is adorned with precious diamonds on the bezel. Crafted from white gold, the case perfectly complements the exquisitely crafted Tubogas bracelet. This Bulgari Serpenti watch is in impeccable condition, with a tight Tubogas bracelet, flawless dial, well preserved case, and a perfectly functioning movement.
The watch is accompanied by its original box signed Bulgari Roma and Audemars Piguet Extract from the Archives.
Serial Number 383,XXX, Watch manufactured in 1967