The Metallurgy and Materials laboratory at the watchmaker designs and makes sapphire that keeps pushing the boundaries for a synthetic material that’s almost as hard as diamond. Hublot has explored the possibilities of designing a case in unique shapes and has now turned its attention to different colourways. The impressive 45mm Big Bang MP-11 case that launched in 2018 has been given a new hue. Ice blue brings a touch of summer and creates a soft contrast to showcase the HU9011 calibre, displayed in all its glory. The watch has met its perfect match, complemented by a matching-coloured strap attached by a titanium folding clasp.

The hour and minute hands on the dial make their move in their off-centre dial at 12. Just beneath, the self-winding movement’s row of seven barrels positioned vertically are always a sight for sore eyes. They give the Big Bang MP-11Water Blue Sapphire a record-breaking power reserve to fuel it. On top of its slender architecture, a roller tells the wearer how much juice is left in its 14-day power reserve. The balance wheel pursues its toing and froing in this state-of-the-art scenography. A large, symmetrically-positioned helical wheel delivers the energy required for the time data displays. The perfect balance of design and performance.

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Maxime Plescia-Buchi, the director and founder of the Sang Bleu magazine, made his mark with an incredible tattoo technique. His creations showcase his talent and expertise in art and design. Elongated, chiselled and edgy features set the scene for complex designs where reliefs, curves and textures come together. This enduring style has made a lasting impression on the Hublot collections since their successful collaboration first began in 2016. The use of multiple materials gives the Spirit of Big Bang Sang Bleu the chance to transform the iconic 42mm case that first launched in 2003. This is the first time that it’s been carved and facetted in polished sapphire, a new technique from the watchmaker paving the way in sapphire timepieces. The barrel case has been transformed into geometric shapes to mirror the unique time display that uses rhomboids instead of hands. It’s like a kinetic sculpture that catches the light that moves through it.

The fresh geometry gives the HUB4700 calibre a showcase worthy of its impressive skeletonised architecture. The automatic movement is fuelled by 278 components to give the Spirit of Big Bang Sang Bleu Sapphire a 50-hour power reserve and display the time, hours, minutes, date and counter. This limited edition (100 available) is more than just a work of art; it’s a chronograph too. With everything it has going for it, much ink will be spilled over this timepiece.

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Hublot has always been the master of exclusive design with its endless innovations and areas of expertise. Cutting-edge movements are showcased by materials that are hi-tech, precious or a bit of both. The Big Bang Unico Ice Bang is the perfect example of the watchmaker’s ability to create desire. The timepiece first launched in 2006 and is now making a statement in ceramic and tantalum. The new look has the same game-changing spirit with a new fusion of materials and new measurements. Just like the original, the openwork dial sets the textured scene for the minutes and hours plus short time with a minute counter at 3 and a central seconds hand. The matt black and grey shades enhance the striking layout. Its design features a light yet durable 42mm case carved out of black micro-beaded and polished ceramic, topped by a polished satin-finish tungsten bezel. The pieces feature a carbon-coloured fabric strap with a Velcro^® fastening. The quick release system enables the wearer to swap it for a rubber strap.

The unique design is home to the HUB1280 Unico calibre. The automatic chronograph movement with a flyback function provides a 72-hour power reserve. The Ice Bang brings passion and performance together to take exclusivity to new heights. Not only is it a limited edition with just 100 available, but it’s also only available on the brand’s website.

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Nowadays, Hublot is renowned for its countless exclusive areas of expertise, from its fusion of materials to its movements. Sometimes you see the bigger picture if you turn back the clock. The Big Bang Integrated Time Only is a golden opportunity to do just that. This watch captures the original spirit that fuelled the brand when it first landed in the 1980s. The 40mm model launched in 2023 and has been given new dimensions this year to make it more versatile. The signature case is now 38mm in diameter and 9.4mm thick. The six design options give this timepiece a classic sports chic personality. The titanium and King Gold options feature a black or azure dial. Ceramic takes pride of place in an all-blue version and the elusive Black Magic model featuring a bezel forged out of the hi-tech composite. Each model has a strap built into the body with links carved out of the same hi-tech or precious material as the case itself.

The dial has the same layout with a date display at 3. Large Arabic numerals alternate with hour markers to form the rim. These features and the hands are coated in white Super-LumiNova^® so wearers can tell the time in any condition. The HUB1115 calibre ensures the watch always displays the right time. The automatic movement provides a 50-hour power reserve. Everything you need, just better.

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Hublot has used its talent for creating and fusing materials to pull off a master stroke: introducing the world’s first case with a 42mm diameter, water-resistant to depths of up to 100m and carved out of orange ceramic. The watchmaker used a patented technique developed in-house to capture the zesty hue. The colour of creativity and vitality brightens up the already eye-catching design of the Big Bang Unico Orange Ceramic.

The brand is also unveiling the Big Bang Unico Dark Green Ceramic at Watches & Wonders Geneva. The timepiece has the same structured architecture and an equally striking colour. The ceramic case’s khaki green makes it even more versatile. These two exclusive pieces are powered by the Unico calibre and its openwork layout that elevates their game-changing sporty personalities. There are 250 of each model available with a grooved rubber strap that you can easily change using the One Click system. The Unico calibre has a unique ability to adapt and it brings to life an extraordinary duo with the black and gold finery of the Square Bang Unico. Both pieces have an automatic movement with a flyback function (72-hour power reserve). The hi-tech and sleek materials on the case and bezel turn up the volume on the bold design. One timepiece pairs black ceramic with 18ct Magic Gold. Hublot’s patented scratchproof and tamper-proof gold covers its alter ego in its entirety in a limited series of 200 pieces.

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The Unico 1242 calibre saw Hublot overcome the challenge of gaining independence and joining the watchmaking inner circle in 2010. The movement is designed to be a kinetic work of art in perfect synergy with its cases. The outstanding finish and open dial mean each and every component has a part to play in the look of the watches. This year has seen Hublot unveil the 1280 calibre and open up a world of possibilities for the automatic movement with a flyback function. The movement has slimmed down, from 8.05mm to 6.75mm, so it can fit more contemporary and versatile 42mm cases.

But the brand hasn’t sacrificed its outstanding performance and has a comfortable 72-hour power reserve. Patented innovations have also gone into the 1280 calibre’s structure. It’s now smoother to wind, so a unidirectional gear train deactivates the barrel to avoid any risk of breakage. There are other changes in the Unico. They all dial up its strength and sturdiness. Expect improved accuracy and shock-resistance. The silicon escapement means it’s impervious to magnetic fields. The Unico calibre’s winning features have made stars of five new models unveiled at Watches & Wonders Geneva 2024, such as the Big Bang Unico Pink Sapphire.

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