Tomohisa Yamashita Steps Into the Heart of Bulgari Watchmaking
Bulgari’s watchmaking operations are spread across Switzerland, from its headquarters in Neuchâtel to specialized workshops in Saignelégier for dials and cases, and the renowned Le Sentier site for movements. The Le Sentier manufacture itself combines a beautifully preserved late-19th-century building with a modern facility, symbolising Bulgari’s philosophy of blending tradition with contemporary innovation in haute horlogerie.
During his visit, Yamashita wore the new Octo Finissimo Skeleton Eight Days watch as he toured the workshops, pausing to capture moments with the watchmakers. He admired the intricate assembly of icons such as the Octo Finissimo Marble Tourbillon with its ultra-thin marble dial, while artisans introduced him to the maison’s exceptional mastery of complications, including flying tourbillons, perpetual calendars, and minute repeaters. Together, these encounters revealed Bulgari’s ambitious vision for the future of fine watchmaking.
Reflecting on the experience, Yamashita shared:
“This was my first time stepping inside Bulgari’s manufacture in Switzerland, and it was both serene and enriching. I gained a deeper appreciation for the complexity of mechanical watchmaking. Seeing the world’s thinnest Octo Finissimo movement up close and hearing the melodious chime of the minute repeater was truly awe-inspiring. The seamless interplay of countless micro-gears and components is nothing short of art. What moved me most was realising that every timepiece is not only the fusion of tradition and innovation but also a vessel of passion and dedication from watchmakers and designers alike. This experience was profoundly inspiring—I even felt that the meticulous craft of watchmaking shares similarities with my career in performance, where it also takes a dedicated team working in harmony to create true works of art.”
Images courtesty of Bulgari
