Gerald Genta Timepieces: Modern Collection Guide

patrick_y · 2022-02-11T05:57:08Z

Explore the enduring legacy of Gerald Genta's modern watch designs, from iconic Patek Philippe and Audemars Piguet to unique Bulgari Octo Finissimo models. Discover collector favorites and insights on WatchProSite.

patrick_y

WPS member · Horological Meandering forum

28 replies8215 views12 photos

Gerald Genta's enduring legacy in watch design is undeniable, with his creations spanning integrated bracelet sports watches to more formal and avant-garde pieces. In this WatchProSite digest, patrick_y invites the community to share their favorite modern Gerald Genta timepieces, prompting a fascinating discussion that extends beyond the most famous references like the Patek Philippe Nautilus and Audemars Piguet Royal Oak.

28 collectors discussing this on the WatchProSite forumJoin the Conversation →

Let's face it. If you look at Gerald Genta's creations, you'll almost certainly find one that you like. From a watch with the 1970s design of an integrated bracelet, to something more formal, or something just totally different. Genta has created many iconic timepieces that are well liked by many!

What modern Gerald Genta piece do you like the most? It can be one of the obscure ones or the well known ones, like the Patek Philippe Nautilus or the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak or the IWC Ingeneur... Or it can be one of the less common pieces. Here are some of the less common ones I can think of. Ironically, they're all by Bulgari, since many of the modern interpretations of Genta's work is by Bulgari. But feel free to mention any Genta watch you like from any brand! I still like the Nautilus very much!

Bulgari Octo Finissimo Tattoo Aria (sold out) very cool, designed by one of our own WatchProSite members. They’re super rare, but at least a couple of our members have one!

Bulgari Octo Finissimo Steel. I like this piece a lot! Would like to own one, one day!

Bulgari Gerald Genta Gefica Hunter, special thanks to our member Brauner who posted this photo of this watch!

Bulgari Octo Finissimo Revolution Hand Wound with Pierced Roman Dial (sold out, special edition for Revolution Magazine). I find this piece to be awesome. Thank you ChristianCH for sharing your watch with us! One of my favorite Octo Finissimos!

Gerald Genta Mickey Mouse Revival Watch (limited to 150 pieces worldwide and already impossible to get). It’s really cool with a retrograde hand! Super limited unfortunately.

Bulgari Octo Finissimo Japanese Edition Tatsuo, special thanks to S031746, our member who posted about this watch, and this was the first time I heard about this watch!

Key Points from the Discussion

The Bulgari Octo Finissimo line, particularly the Tattoo Aria edition, represents a modern interpretation of Genta's design language and is highly sought after by collectors.
The Bulgari Octo Finissimo's micro-rotor movement, while contributing to its slim profile, can be inefficient for daily wear, often requiring manual winding even after an active day.
The Gerald Genta Arena Bi-Retro Mickey Mouse watches are surprisingly popular among collectors, showcasing a playful yet sophisticated side of Genta's design.
Some collectors appreciate the distinctive design of the Gerald Genta Arena Bi-Retro, often featuring unique complications and aesthetics.
The durability and service experience of certain Genta-designed watches, such as the Bulgari Octo Finissimo, can be a point of concern for owners, especially regarding early wear and subsequent repairs.

The Discussion

caarl_watcher

Feb 11, 2022

I love Bulgari Octo Finissimo Steel too! You definitely love it when you really pick this.

patrick_y

Feb 11, 2022

The screw down crown worries me...

The watch isn't a great winder, the micro rotor isn't very efficient. I've walked 10 miles in a day (active day for me) and the watch still runs out of power in the middle of the night when I sleep. My current Octo Finissimo doesn't have a screw down crown, so I can just wind it to start it off again, but if it did, that'd be a pain!

nasseriq

Feb 11, 2022

For me it’s the Mickey Mouse piece. I think it’s Devine.

MikiJ

Feb 11, 2022

Definitely would be mine - Miki :-)

patrick_y

Feb 11, 2022

What makes you like the Mickey Mouse so much?

Seems like we have a lot of Mickey Mouse lovers!

MikiJ

Feb 11, 2022