An Italian Affair: Bvlgari And Ducati Meet In An Aluminium Chronograph

A brand new Bvlgari × Ducati Aluminium chronograph for those who feel the need for speed

May 23, 2022

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There is no shortage of brand collaborations in the watch world. Their attractiveness usually hangs on your personal relationship with both brands. I can certainly see how this new Bvlgari × Ducati Aluminium Chronograph will resonate with aficionados of watches and motorcycles. These are two passions that go together like peanut butter and jelly, or prosciutto and Parmigiano, if you prefer.

The Bvlgari Aluminium

Bvlgari introduced the Aluminium range in 1998. It is a thoroughly original ’90s design that has aged very well. Sure, the prominent logos on the rubber bezel divide opinions. However, there is no denying that the watch has a distinct visual identity and numerous characteristic design elements. For example, the use of aluminium is off the beaten path, for sure.

The Bvlgari Aluminium chronograph measures 40mm in diameter and comes with a rather slim automatic caliber BVL 130. This 4Hz movement is based on the ETA 2894-2 and provides 42 hours of power reserve. The case measures 11.1mm in thickness, and combined with the unique articulated rubber strap, the dimensions will make for a comfortable wearing experience.

Bvlgari × Ducati Aluminium chronograph

This latest limited-edition version of the Aluminium chronograph is fitted with a Ducati Red dial. Considering the current surge of brightly colored dials, this one is right on-trend. If there were ever a time to release this collaboration, it is now.

The 10, 11, and 12 numerals on the dial are executed in a style any two-wheeled speed freak will recognize from Ducati dash clocks. It’s a subtle nod that takes the place of the large 12 numeral that normally adorns the top position of the Aluminium’s dial. The Ducati emblem is left off of the dial, but you can find it on the DLC-coated titanium case back. There, you’ll also find an indication of this watch’s limited (but not numbered) status and its 100m/10 ATM water resistance.

Final thoughts

I prefer the clean aesthetic of the regular black and white dials on this watch. I feel the red color and the Ducati font do not really gel with the overall design language of the Bvlgari Aluminium.

That being said, I guess I am missing the point here. I have a strong preference for the stability of four wheels, so there were no Ducati posters in my bedroom when I was young. If there had been, however, I would probably be all over this collaboration.

The Bvlgari × Ducati Aluminium chronograph will see a run of 1,000 pieces with each carrying a price of €5,000. I am sure they will find enough Ducati fans with an appetite for a cool motor-themed chronograph to sell out quickly. For more information on this watch, head over to the Bvlgari website, and let us know your thoughts on this release in the comments.