In Brazil, football is a way of life and ingrained in the very DNA of its natives.

It’s no wonder then that despite the emergence of Spain and Germany as football superpowers in the last 15 years, Brazil are still regarded as the most successful team in international football.

The Selecao have graced many a World Cup with their distinct brand of football, an expressive, attacking style wherein even their defenders boast more than their fair share of audacious flair.

The Samba Kings have used their irresistible approach to win a total of five World Cups, one more than any other team has managed as Germany and Italy come closest with four each.

Over the years there have been several iconic figures who have played huge roles in Brazil’s success, perhaps the most notable among them being Pele who took the world by storm in 1958 and helped secure his country’s first ever title before repeating the feat again in 1962 and 1970.

Legendary captain Dunga lifts the World Cup in 1994.

Following a 24-year long wait, Romario was the centre of the team to then win Brazil’s fourth title along with the likes of Cafu, Bebeto, Dunga and a 17-year-old Ronaldo.

Ronaldo was then the star as Brazil were beaten by France in the 1998 final and again when he led them to their fifth and most recent World Cup triumph in 2002.

Much is expected of the current generation and in Neymar, they have a talisman in the mould of Pele, Romario and Ronaldo to propel them to success along with a strong squad of solid, technically proficient and skilfully blessed players.

Could World Cup 2018 be another Samba tale?

Octo Finissimo Automatic A Third World Record for Bulgari

Bulgari is once again the spotlight, proudly presenting its third successive world record.

The Octo Finissimo Automatic is the slimmest ultra-thin self-winding watch on the market to date.

After introducing its Tourbillon in 2014 and the Minute Repeater in 2016, the Maison unveils its new creation featuring a total thickness of just 5.15mm, while its self-winding movement is just 2.23mm thick for a 40mm diameter.

The iconic Octo is once again pushing the boundaries of watchmaking feasibility.