The serpent has accompanied Bulgari since the 1940s, first in the form of articulated bracelet watches, then as a motif in its own right. Two constructions dominate : Tubogas, this supple gold ribbon assembled without visible soldering, and the Viper line, more graphic, recognisable by its hexagonal scales.
On the second-hand market, a Serpenti is judged by the suppleness of the body, the regularity of the scales and the hold of the inner spring on coiled models. Our selection brings together certified authentic bracelets, rings and necklaces, in yellow gold, rose gold or white gold, plain, lacquered or set with diamonds, checked one by one before being offered for sale.
| Model | What characterises it | What to check before purchase |
|---|---|---|
| Serpenti Viper bracelet | Hexagonal scales, graphic line | Regularity of the scales, play between the links |
| Tubogas bracelet | Supple gold ribbon without visible soldering | Spring hold, absence of deformation |
| Serpenti Viper ring | Single or coiled band, gold and diamonds | Size, any resizing on a patterned band |
| Serpenti necklace | Head or scale motif, signed chain | Length, original clasp, hallmarks |
| Serpenti watch | Case housed within the serpent's body | Service history, condition of the movement, water resistance |
On the second-hand market, the difference in value between two visually similar Serpenti pieces comes above all from the gold weight, the presence of lacquer and the setting. A Viper set with diamonds along its full length does not command the same price as a plain model, with identical construction.
The condition of the spring and articulation matters just as much. A piece that has retained its original suppleness will always resell better than a piece stiffened by wear, whatever its gold weight.
Viper is built from articulated hexagonal scales ; Tubogas is a coiled gold ribbon, supple, without visible soldering. They are two distinct areas of expertise of the house.
Linked models can sometimes be adjusted by one or two elements. Coiled models adapt by themselves, within the limit of their spring.
Bulgari signature, hallmarks, serial number and the quality of the scale finishing. Every piece sold by the boutique undergoes this inspection before being listed online.
Signed pieces sell quickly and not all are listed online. If you are looking for a particular model, size or material, let us know : we will inform you as soon as a matching piece arrives in the boutique. Describe your search or call the boutique on 06 07 10 31 64.
See also : Pre-owned Bulgari B.zero1, Bulgari bracelets, Bulgari rings and all our Bulgari jewellery.
Francine Joaillerie is an independent house specialising in second-hand pieces and is not affiliated with any of the houses mentioned.
