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Footballer Antonio Candreva spotted wearing Bulgari

Antonio Candreva, the Italian international winger who made his name at Inter Milan and Lazio before joining Sampdoria, was recently photographed on the wrist with one of the most architecturally compelling limited editions in contemporary watchmaking: the Bulgari Octo Finissimo Black Ceramic Tadao Ando, reference 103534.

The Bulgari Octo Finissimo has been a record-breaking platform since its introduction, with the automatic version — powered by the in-house BVL 138 calibre — claiming the title of world's thinnest automatic watch at just 2.23mm thick when launched. The Ref. 103534 builds on this foundation with a black ceramic case measuring 40mm, a material chosen for its scratch resistance and deep matte aesthetic. The dial is the centrepiece: concentric circles in lacquered blue pay direct homage to Tadao Ando's signature use of geometry and light, while a sculpted gold crescent — the "Mikazuki," or first-quarter moon in Japanese — anchors the composition with quiet symbolism.

This is the third time Bulgari and Tadao Ando have collaborated, each iteration deepening a dialogue between Italian high horology and Japanese spatial philosophy. Ando, whose concrete minimalism has shaped museums and cultural landmarks worldwide, brings an architectural seriousness to the dial design that elevates the Octo Finissimo beyond a technical exercise. The edition is strictly limited to 160 numbered pieces, reinforcing its collectibility from the outset.

For collectors, the Tadao Ando series occupies a distinct position within the Octo Finissimo universe. Earlier Ando collaborations have already demonstrated strong secondary-market retention, and the black ceramic case — paired with the blue-and-gold dial — makes the Ref. 103534 among the most visually resolved of the trilogy. Demand among design-conscious collectors has been immediate.

Candreva's choice is consistent with his documented interest in serious horology. Spotting this particular reference on a professional footballer underlines how the Bulgari Octo Finissimo Tadao Ando 103534 has crossed over from the architecture and design world into broader luxury culture. At a limited run of 160 examples, those who secured one at retail are already sitting on a meaningful premium.