More than just inertia, renowned haute horologist Hublot continues to surpass the expectations of its clientele with new discoveries that few could ever imagine. Founded in 1980, nearly half of the Swiss haute horologist’s existence was focused on the development of the Big Bang model. Twenty years after the launch of its first Big Bang, Hublot boldly reveals a thrilling Big Bang Original Unico that embraces both past and present into one.
The commemorative 43 mm Big Bang Original Unico pays homage to the original muse that shaped the explosive course of the Big Bang collection. In the words of Hublot’s CEO Julien Tornare, the Big Bang Original Unico strikes the perfect balance of heritage and metamorphosis. With details that have been “rethought, refined, and re-engineered,” it would be difficult to find any flaws in the modern timepiece.
First to be reinvented, of course, is the movement that powers the Big Bang Original Unico. Whilst its original model certainly was the talk of its time, this commemorative timepiece bears the MHUB1280 UNICO—a robust self-winding movement that boasts some of Hublot’s patented features. The MHUB1280 UNICO is equipped with an astounding chronograph flyback function that allows wearers to restart and reset the wristwatch without losing much time in the process. Crafted to accommodate a 1/8th of a second precision, the movement’s -2/+4 seconds per day accuracy is arguably as dependable as the watch’s robustness. This winning feature was made entirely possible by Hublot’s technological breakthroughs that make up the movement, which include the dual oscillating clutches, “zero friction” ratchet wheel blocker, and anti-trembling system, among others.
Apart from the innerworkings of the timepiece, Hublot also lends “something old” to its case. For the new timepiece, the haute horologist prepared a sleek yet sporty façade that is made available in the pillars of the Big Bang: Black Magic, Titanium, Titanium Ceramic, and King Gold Ceramic. Each integral pillar that has formed the Big Bang’s DNA is now used for the watch case, the first line of defence for Hublot’s new masterpiece. The Big Bang Original Unico Black Magic, for example, proudly wears micro blasted and polished black ceramic as its suit of armour. While it comfortably stays on the darker side of the colour wheel, Hublot brightens the palette for the Big Bang Original Unico Titanium with its satin-finished and polished Titanium case. Wedged between the two is the Titanium Ceramic variation, which features a satin-finished and polished Black Ceramic bezel on the Titanium case. Last, but not least, is the King Gold Ceramic variation, whose warmth contradicts that of the Titanium Ceramic. Holding the bezel in place are six charming screws that have become the brand’s trademark.
Underneath the sapphire crystal, a memorable “carbon effect” dial is the perfect background for the new timepiece. Its checkerboard-like motif seamlessly merges the Big Bang Original Unico’s overall aesthetics, even the structured black rubber strap that comes with each watch. While three of the variations are adorned with cool-toned décor, such as hour appliques, needles, and subdial outlines, the King Gold Ceramic variation stays true to its theme and features golden details. From its movement to embellishments, the Big Bang Original Unico encapsulates 20 years of non-stop innovation, proving the unstoppable momentum of Hublot’s discoveries in Haute Horlogerie.
