Exquisite, out of the box, and glamorous. Theres hardly any brand that better encapsulates these definitions than Bulgari. Stylized as Bvlgari, the Italian luxury brand has built its reputation upon its distinctive and bold style that integrates innovation with history. It is known for its jewelry, fragrances, accessories, and leather goods. But, another product that we celebrate it for is its range of luxury watches that combines fine-quality materials with craftsmanship to create highly-coveted pieces sought after by style icons, royals, and A-listers.
While the brand is associated with luxury and skyrocketing prices, youll be surprised to know that Bvlgari offers an array of watches that are well under $5,000. These serve as a great entry point if you want this brand to grace your watch collection.
History & Watches for Women Under $5000
Bvlgari is one of the oldest Italian jewelry houses. It was founded in 1884 by Sotirois Voulgaris, a highly skilled silversmith, whom the brand is named after (Bulgari is the phonetic pronunciation of his last name). While the brand is headquartered in Rome, most of its jewelry goods are manufactured in Valenza.
In the 1950s, Bvlgari rose to fame. During this time, its jewelry was often seen in classic Hollywood films like Roman Holiday, Cleopatra, and Kingkong, adorning the likes of Audrey Hepburn, Elizabeth Taylor, Jessica Langue, Monica Vitti, and Sofia Loren.
However, its success in the field of watches dates back to the 1920s, during the release of the first known models of Bvlgari watches. Although, its possible that the brand sold watches earlier in the business, probably including a Bvlgari watch women or two. These watches, along with Bvlgaris other jewelry creations, are a reflection of the traditional French school design. They use platinum and diamonds with heavy geometric patternsan influence of the Art Déco movement.
One of the characterizing elements of a Bvlgari watch is the Tubogas bracelet, an industrial-themed design made with gold or steel bands wrapped tightly around a steel core. The name is derived from its similarity to a woven metal gas pipe. The brand further succeeded in the field of watches with the introduction of Serpenti watches, which are wristwatches that look like snakes with their serpent-like bracelet that ends with a jeweled head housing the dial.
Fast forward to the present, the brand remains to be known for its bold jewelry designs and fearless color combinations. It heavily uses diamonds, emeralds, pearls, and ceramic to create trendsetting jewelrya union of classic Roman and modern trends. If you love the look of Bvlgari watches on your wrist, youll surely love these curated pieces that cost no more than $5,000.
1. Serpenti Tubogas Quartz White Dial Ladies Watch Ref. 101828
In the 1940s, snake bracelets were all the rage and Bvlgari jumped on this trend by introducing bejeweled snake watches where the dials are placed inside the snakeheads. Today, the Serpenti watch continues to be one of the brands best-sellers, and this ref. 101828 is a versatile piece that matches almost any style of clothing. It features a 35mm stainless steel case, sapphire crystal glass, and silver dial, and runs on quartz movement.
2. Tubogas Quartz Black Dial Ladies Watch Ref. 102097
Besides style, the brand also emphasized the concept of wearability in its jewelry, creating watches that can be worn throughout the day. Stainless steel turned out to be one of the most versatile materials to date. This reference sports a 26mm stainless steel case and a sapphire crystal glass that houses a black dial with silver-tone hands, Arabic numerals, and an in-house Caliber B046 quartz movement
3. Quartz Black Dial Ladies Watch Ref. 101698
While it offers a different silhouette from the mainstream with its 35mm rectangular case, this watch retains a classic look that appeals to women who prefer to keep their watches timeless and elegant. It sports a black dial presented on a stainless steel strap. The brand name is engraved on the top and bottom of the case, further adding to its classy appeal. It offers a quartz movement and 30m water resistance.
4. Quartz Mother of Pearl Dial Diamond Ladies Watch Ref. 101977
This classic Bvlgari line remains one of the brands most in-demand selections and this reference carries its signature toned-down design. It features a 22mm stainless steel case and a coordinating bracelet. But, what truly delivers the touch of elegance is the mother-of-pearl-colored dial, along with its silver-tone hands.
5. Serpenti Spiga Quartz Black Dial Ladies Watch
A black and gold combination results in a timepiece that looks highly luxurious and timeless. This version of the Serpenti Spiga is eye-catching with its black dial, 35mm black ceramic case, and black ceramic steel bracelet. It has a quartz movement and features 50m water resistance. Its golden hands add further refinement to this classic design and youre sure to never go wrong with this one.
A Bvlgari Watch For You
This selection of Bvlgari watches is versatile in design and colors, so you can match them easily with almost any outfit. Gold looks best when paired with other gold accessories while you can wear stainless steel watches with various types of clothing, whether youre looking to dress up or dress down. Meanwhile, black watches look impressive when worn during a dinner date or when attending a business event. Regardless of your style and watch preference, this list proves that you can find a Bvlgari watch thats well within your budget.
Which of these Bvlgari watches appeal to you most? Let us know by leaving a comment below.