We love brand books at WorldTempus. They are a source of information and inspiration for all of our in-house journalists, who regularly consult them. Even if you can find almost everything online these days, there is something about having carefully curated and beautifully illustrated information in one “page-turning” place. So, when we heard about the new authorized history of Bulgari watches called Beyond Time, let’s just say that a dedicated space was promptly cleared on our bookshelf!
Authoritative Reference Work
Produced by Assouline, the luxury book publisher, this 300-page, eight-chapter, authoritative reference work is a first for Bulgari. The book covers a century of watchmaking history that takes readers on a journey from Rome to Switzerland, from the past to the present, and concluding with a look at the future of watchmaking at Bulgari.
Editorial Approach
The editorial approach is intriguingly distinct as it orchestrates a conversation between the Bulgari watch and a diverse array of renowned authors, such as cinema directors, athletes, experts, and conductors, who artfully interlace the Masion’s collections with their own perspectives. The synergy aims to showcase the fusion of Italian design elegance with Swiss horological expertise evident in Bulgari's high watchmaking and high jewelry creations.
A Selection of Authors
Among the book’s treasures is a chapter devoted to the Octo Finissimo and its eight world records, which is written in collaboration with Carl Lewis, one of the greatest sprinters of all time and winner of nine Olympic medals. Lewis shares his unique life philosophy of relentless training, a desire to always surpass himself, and a will to set one record after another.
Another segment chronicles the Maison’s most important jewellery creations, including several pieces cherished by Elizabeth Taylor. This chapter is expertly written by the famed auctioneer and International Director of Christie’s Jewellery Department, Rahul Kadakia, whose knowledge and experience bring a unique view to the history of the Maison’s creations.
One more example of the incredible guests who have taken part in this book – and there are many of them ¬– is actor and director Alessandro Gassmann, who comes from Bulgar’s hometown of Rome. Gassmann draws a bold parallel between living in his native Rome and inhabiting time, an indispensable exercise in his role as an actor but also as a director.
Inside the pages of Beyond Time, readers will be able to follow a century of Bulgari’s creations across the decades, with records, timepieces, jewellery that tells the time, unique pieces, and astounding collections that have been brought together for the very first time in this cohesive and exhaustive work of publishing art.
For those of you interested in purchasing the book, it will be available at Assouline stores. We also have a few copies to give away, so drop us a line at sophie.furley@worldtempus.com for a chance to be among the first to experience this masterpiece.
