Bulgari - The Hong Kong Watch Auction: SIX Hong Kong Monday, May 28, 2018 | Phillips

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  • Manufacturer: Bulgari
    Year: Circa 2012
    Reference No: SP35G
    Case No: PO 0470
    Model Name: Serpenti Tubogas
    Material: 18K yellow gold, diamond and pink sapphire
    Calibre: Quartz
    Bracelet/Strap: 18k yellow gold single spiral Bulgari bracelet, approximately max length 150mm.
    Dimensions: 23mm. Wide
    Signed: Case, dial and movement signed
    Accessories: With black fitted Bulgari presentation box and outer packaging.

  • Catalogue Essay

    Bulgari introduced the Serpenti bracelet watch in the 1940s and over the years they have produced the model in a variety of formats from the highly jeweled and enameled to examples like the present watch in 18k gold and diamonds. Using the “Tubogas” technique inspired by the Romans, Bulgari created a twisted tube like bracelet that fit comfortably on the wrist and arm. The serpent, while feared by many, is not only a symbol of good and evil, but also of power and eternity. The 1960s was a particular productive period for the brand, and they created a unique example of the Serpenti watch, which was worn by Elizabeth Taylor in the movie “Cleopatra”.

    In the 21st century the Serpenti remains a brand symbol with new editions coming out every few years at Basel. The watches are sensual and exotic with each part handcrafted and displaying the highest quality of workmanship. The present watch is extremely well-preserved and will bring a sense of joy to those that wear it.

  • Artist Biography

    Bulgari

    Italian

    Originally from Kalarites, Greece, Sotirios Voulgaris emigrated to Rome because of Greece's rising poverty and difficulty separating from the Ottoman Empire. He set foot on Italian soil in 1880 with little money in his pocket and spent the next four years preparing what would go on to become Italy's oldest jewelry company. 

    In 1884, Bulgari opened its doors to the Italian people with its offering of jewelry and accessories. Bulgari's style takes from traditions in Greek and Roman craftsmanship to elegantly balance volume and subtlety. Later, in the late 1960s, Bulgari bridged classicism and modernity by introducing its seductive, now-iconic Serpenti collection of snake-shaped coil bracelets and watches. It is through its meticulous combination of influences that Bulgari has garnered an international and loyal high-profile clientele, which included Elizabeth Taylor and Audrey Hepburn. These Hollywood stars have immortalized the house's unique gem-adorned bracelets, necklaces and earrings in rounded forms. 

    View More Works

880

Ref. SP35G
A lady’s attractive and elegant yellow gold, diamond-set triple wrap bracelet watch

Circa 2012
23mm. Wide
Case, dial and movement signed

Estimate
HK$48,000 - 72,000 
€5,300-7,900
$6,200-9,200

Sold for HK$162,500

Contact Specialist

Thomas Perazzi
Head of Watches, Asia
+852 2318 2001
thomasperazzi@phillips.com

Ziyong Ho
Specialist
+852 9386 2032
ziyongho@phillips.com

Jill Chen
Specialist
+852 2318 2033
jillchen@phillips.com

The Hong Kong Watch Auction: SIX

Hong Kong Auction 29 May 2018