gérald Genta Octo Bi-Retro (Ref. obr.y.60.510) The Octo Bi-Retro in 18-karat white gold is a prime example of gérald Genta’s avant-garde design. It combines his iconic octagonal design language with a highly complex, playful approach to time display. The Geometry of the Case The case, crafted from solid 18-karat white gold, captivates with the characteristic octagonal shape that made Genta famous. With a diameter of approximately 39 mm to 43 mm (depending on the specific model in the series) and fluted (ribbed) case sides, the watch has an architectural and striking appearance. The crown is often fitted with a cabochon or a protective flange. The Display: Jumping Hour & Double Retrograde What sets the Bi-Retro apart is its departure from classic, sweeping hands: • Jumping Hour: The current hour is displayed digitally in a window at 12 o’clock. At the top of the hour, the number instantly jumps to the next hour. • Retrograde Minute: The minute hand travels along a 180-degree arc in the upper section and jumps back to zero at lightning speed at the end of the hour (at 60). • Retrograde Date: In the lower section of the dial, there is a second retrograde display for the date (1 to 31). Dial Design The dial of the obr.y.60.510 is often multi-layered and intricately designed. Cloisonné enamel or special textures are frequently used. The combination of Arabic numerals for the minutes and the date gives the watch an instrument-like, almost automotive look. Caliber GG 7722 Inside, the watch is powered by the automatic Caliber GG 7722 movement, which is based on a high-quality base caliber (often Girard-Perregaux) and has been enhanced with Genta’s in-house module for the retrograde functions. It is finely finished and visible through a sapphire crystal case back. Heritage and Collectible Value Gérald Genta was the designer of the Royal Oak and the Nautilus. This watch, bearing his own name, represents his full creative freedom. After Bulgari acquired the brand, the Octo shape became the basis for today’s Bulgari Octo collection, making the original Genta models sought-after historical pieces.