Hublot, the Swiss luxury watchmaker, is known for its innovative and distinctive designs that combine different materials, colors and styles. The brand's motto, "The Art of Fusion", reflects its philosophy of blending tradition and modernity, craftsmanship and technology, elegance and audacity.
One of Hublot's iconic collections is the Spirit of Big Bang, which features a barrel-shaped case that stands out from the usual round or square shapes. The Spirit of Big Bang was launched in 2014 as a tribute to the Big Bang, Hublot's flagship model that revolutionized the watch industry in 2005.
This year, Hublot has introduced a new limited edition timepiece with the Spirit of Big Bang Essential Grey, a variation in style in luminous grey that is exclusively available online. The watch is part of the Essential Grey line, which offers a single color, a single model, once a year, through a single channel. It is an approach that appeals to the most discerning collectors, who seek rarity and exclusivity.
The design and features of the Spirit of Big Bang Essential Grey
The Spirit of Big Bang Essential Grey is made from 100% titanium, including the case, bezel, screws, crown, push-pieces, case-back and folding clasp. Titanium is a light and resistant material that has a soft and radiant grey color. Hublot has sandblasted and polished the titanium to create a refined and sophisticated finish.
The watch has a skeletonized dial that reveals the intricate workings of the HUB4700 caliber, a self-winding chronograph movement that beats at a frequency of 5 Hz (36,000 vibrations per hour) and offers a power reserve of 50 hours. The movement is based on the famous El Primero caliber by Zenith, a sister brand of Hublot under the LVMH group.
The dial has subtle variations of grey to ensure legibility and contrast. The date disc (at 4:30), the chronograph counters (minutes at 3 o'clock, hours at 6 o'clock) and the small seconds (at 9 o'clock) have different shades of grey. The hour markers and hands are rhodium-plated and luminescent. The dial also features a play on depth and texture, with mirror-polished, brushed and grained surfaces.
The watch comes with two interchangeable straps: one in grey fabric with Velcro and black ceramic buckle, and another in black and silvered lined rubber. The straps are equipped with Hublot's patented One Click system, which allows for easy swapping without any tools.
The availability and price of the Spirit of Big Bang Essential Grey
The Spirit of Big Bang Essential Grey is an online exclusive model that can only be purchased through Hublot's official website: hublot.com. The watch is limited to 100 pieces worldwide, making it a highly coveted collector's item.
The watch is priced at USD 24,100 (EUR 21,900), which includes a Hublot complete service. This service ensures that the watch will be maintained and repaired by Hublot's experts for free within five years from the date of purchase.
The Spirit of Big Bang Essential Grey is a stunning timepiece that showcases Hublot's mastery of fusion and innovation. It is a rare opportunity for watch enthusiasts to own a piece of Hublot's history and spirit.
