Small Talk JEAN-CHRISTOPHE BABIN

The CEO of Bulgari on women’s watches and the future of e-commerce

Which is your favourite Bulgari watch for women?

When it comes to our ladies’ watches, I’ve for sure been seduced by the evolution of our Serpenti Tubogas timepiece and its Spiga construction, which allows it be strapped onto the wrist with a wavy-patterned wraparound bracelet.

What do you love about these watches?

Because of the Spiga construction, we can set the diamond onto the whole body of the snake in a really impactful way. If I were looking for a gift for my wife, fiancée or daughter, the Serpenti Tubogas is perfect.

What if you were looking for a timepiece for yourself?

My professional background is in chronographs, so I’m really happy that our Octo Finissimo watches now come not only in titanium, but also in brushed and polished steel. Steel is better for the mainstream market because it’s more manly, more sturdy, more [everyday], and it’s elegant as well.

How has the pandemic impacted Bulgari?

We have been a pioneer during the pandemic. We’ve financed projects to combat the coronavirus, including the provision of sanitising gels in Europe, and we’ve improved the client experience via digital offerings.

Why is it important that the watchmaking industry embraces digital?

The future is online. Even post-covid, not everyone will be willing to travel eight hours and leave their family for a week to participate in watch fairs, or pick up purchases. For me, there won’t be a step back to the way we operated before Covid.