Bulgari Serpenti Tubogas by Jaeger-LeCoultre

Bulgari Serpenti.

An iconic pairing of words if ever there was one. 

Since Bulgari’s founding, the Italian jeweler has built a reputation upon unique designs.

The Serpenti — the snake-shaped watch released to much acclaim in 1948 and still produced today — is one of the most striking timepieces in the history of modern horology. The tubogas bracelet, meanwhile, has played a significant role in the Serpenti story. Named for the gas pipe from which it takes its aesthetic inspiration, this series of interlocking, hollow metal structures has come to define much of the classic Serpenti look. Indeed, wearing one signals good taste, an appreciation for watchmaking history, and a sense of individualism.

This particular Serpenti Tubogas dates to a time long before Bulgari was capable of manufacturing its own movements, and thus joined forces with some of the most prominent watchmakers of the day. Produced in the 1970s, it features a triple-wrap, 18K white gold tubogas bracelet fixed to a round, yellow gold watch head with a matching smooth bezel. Its intriguing dial is unusua: Executed in a champagne tone, it features black printed 'Breguet' indices, a matching black 'Breguet' handset, and dual signatures from Jaeger-LeCoultre and Bulgari. A blue cabochon crown operates the hand-wound JLC movement ticking a way within. The watch also comes with its period-correct leather-clad box with a padded interior. 

Beautifully designed, this excellent vintage piece pairs one of the world's most important jewelers to one its most prestigious watchmakers in a fit of creativity and beauty. What more could one ask for in a watch? 

 

Founded by Greek entrepreneur and silversmith Sotirios Voulgaris in Rome in 1884, Bulgari has since become a luxury powerhouse.

Following its acquisition of the Gérald Genta and Daniel Roth brands from Singapore’s The Hour Glass in the early 2000s, the maison began a process of vertical integration that has allowed it to produce watches on par with the best from historical Swiss firms, the likes of which have stunned the world in the form of the Octo Finissimo collection. Indeed, having broken eight world records for thinness in as many years, the 2020s have proven Bulgari to be a watchmaker unparalleled in modern history.

In 2011, Bulgari was purchased by the LVMH Group, ensuring an allocation of resources and limelight that have placed the brand at the center of the watch buying public’s attention. From simple, time-only pieces to some of the world’s most complicated watches — and the world’s thinnest mechanical watch, full stop — Bulgari’s watchmaking division continues to develop some of the most stunning timepieces in the world, each imbued with a certain Roman charm and sophistication.

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Analog:Shift stands behind the authenticity of our products in perpetuity.

Condition

Since our pieces are vintage or pre-owned, please expect wear & patina from usage and age. Please read each item description and examine all product images.

Warranty

We back each Analog:Shift vintage timepiece with a one-year mechanical warranty from the date of purchase.

International Buyers

Please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

All of our watches include complementary insured shipping within the 50 states.

Most of our products are on hand and will ship directly from our headquarters in New York City. In some cases, watches will be shipped directly from one of our authorized partners.

We generally ship our products via FedEx, fully insured, within 5 business days of purchase. An adult signature is required for receipt of all packages for insurance purposes. Expedited shipping is available at an additional cost. We are also happy to hand deliver your purchase in Manhattan or you may pick it up at our showroom.

Returns must be sent overnight or by priority international delivery, fully insured and paid for by the customer. A restocking fee may apply. Watches must be returned in the same condition as initially shipped.

We welcome international buyers, please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.