The first impression you get when you enter the hall that takes you to the BULGARI EXHIBITION at BASELWORLD is that you are entering some long lost Egyptian Pharaoh's tomb as you walk down what appears to be an interminable flight of stairs with a rather low ceiling. At the bottom of the stairs you finally make your way across a long corridor at the end of which you finally get a glimpse of the Bulgari logo.
As we mount yet another set of stairs we finally reach the entrance of the Bulgari exhibition to be confronted by a dark room lit by the most breathtaking watches and jewels we have ever set eyes on.
Opulence, decadence, luxuriousness, chromatic pleasures, incredible designs all in one room is something to experience at least once in a lifetime (preferably more than once given half a chance!)
The first object to catch our attention is the dual branded "IL GIOCATORE VENEZIANO" created with Daniel Roth, the Swiss watchmaker, acquired in 2000 by Bulgari and known for its complicated watches. The piece was inspired by the Caravaggio's "The Cardsharps", and is entirely crafted by hand with over 500 movements! The gold relief dial features a richly attired 16th century venetian gambler throwing dice. The scene is hand painted in differing colours for each watch making each of these watches truly unique!
We move on to what is without an ounce of doubt our favorite of the exhibition: The Serpenti Masterpiece Collection! Gem encrusted 2 twirled watch bracelets in the figure of the reptile which became one of the brand's icons in the 1940s and has been re-interpreted by the Maison since then!
Watch the Bulgari Hearts Meet Hands Video:
