The story behind this Bvlgari Tubogas
The Bvlgari Tubogas brings together two of the Roman house’s signature styles in a single ladies’ watch. The Tubogas bracelet takes its name from the flexible gas pipes of the early 20th century, the technique of which Bvlgari adapted for use in jewellery in the late 1940s. Gold bands are interlocked without any soldering, giving the metal its flexibility and its coiled relief. The case comes from the Bvlgari Bvlgari collection, launched in 1977. For the first time in watchmaking, a brand name was engraved on a watch’s bezel – an idea inspired by the circular inscriptions on ancient Roman coins. This model bears the reference BB 23 2T and is shown here in its 18-carat yellow gold version.
Case, movement and bracelet of this Tubogas
The 23 mm round case is crafted from polished 18-carat yellow gold, as is the bezel, which is engraved in relief with the double BVLGARI BVLGARI logo, each name separated by a dot. The black dial features the numerals 12 and 6 and gold baton hour markers, with two gold baton hands and no seconds hand. A sapphire crystal protects the dial and the gold crown is positioned at 3 o’clock. The case back bears the BVLGARI signature, the 18K 750 gold hallmark, the gold hallmarks and the inscription ‘FABRIQUE EN SUISSE’. It is powered by a quartz movement and requires only a periodic battery change. The Tubogas bracelet forms a flexible yellow gold band without a clasp. Its coils part to allow the hand to pass through before closing around the wrist, and the case extends the band without any break in the line. The inside of the bracelet bears the Bvlgari logo, the hallmarks and the size M.
Why this Bvlgari watch
This Bvlgari Tubogas watch with a Bvlgari Bvlgari case is no longer featured in the brand’s catalogue; the Tubogas bracelet is now reserved exclusively for its Serpenti line. To find one, you’ll need to look on the second-hand market. This all-yellow gold version, without gemstones, can be worn on its own or with other straps on the same wrist. Its clasp-free bracelet slips on and off in a single movement, and the black dial provides a sharp contrast to the gold, making it easy to read the time. The quartz movement keeps it running between wearers without needing to be wound.
Contents and condition
The watch is supplied in a The Swiss Collector case and its outer box. It is in good condition, with fine wear marks on the bezel, the case and the links of the bracelet, and no visible impact damage. The dial and hands are clean. The case and bracelet can be polished on request to restore an even shine to the gold before delivery.
Warranty and delivery
The Swiss Collector guarantees the authenticity of this watch, which is covered by a 24-month warranty. We accept returns within 10 days in accordance with our terms and conditions. As Switzerland’s leading second-hand watch retailer, backed by the largest network of shops, we offer online booking for a fitting and collection in-store, or fully secure international delivery.
* Good condition – Watch has been worn. Some signs of wear (micro-scratches, wear marks, etc.). Fully functional and tested by our partner watchmakers.
