Hublot caused a stir when they emerged onto the stage of world-class Swiss watchmakers in 1980. The first watch they launched featured a natural rubber strap that had taken three years to develop, and clear indication of the innovative thinking that is the foundation of the brand to this day. Despite the immediate success of Hublot watches, thanks to a design that perfectly balanced function with style, by the early 00s the company seemed in danger of falling behind other leading manufacturers.
This is where Big Bang came in to save the day. Jean-Claude Biver, a legendary horologist then running OMEGA, was enlisted to create a brand-new model for Hublot. Taking inspiration from the original 80s design, Biver developed a watch he named Big Bang to signify a fresh start for the brand. And what a new beginning it was: the Big Bang remains not only the most sought-after model in the collection of watches by Hublot but also one of the most desired timepieces in the world.
Discover how this exceptional watch has developed over the last two decades to ensure that Hublot retains its rightful position as one of the best watchmakers in the industry.
The original Big Bang: what makes it so special?
So, what makes the Big Bang design so exceptional?
First and foremost is the iconic rubber strap that is a core part of the model’s defiantly contemporary design and has the added benefit of providing comfort and security in any situation, including sports. This functional strap contrasts with the luxury natural materials on and around the watch face including an anti-reflective sapphire screen and gold and diamond detailing. These opulent touches ensure that style matches substance.
In addition to this innovative and attractive look, exceptional automatic movement and a power reserve sustains accurate timekeeping while a range of complications enhance the Big Bang’s versatility.
The development of the Big Bang
Of the seven variations of the Big Bang watch, the Big Bang Unico is one of the more successful. Several special editions of the model have been released such as the Hublot Big Bang UNICO SORAI that helped to raise money for rhino conservation. A new automatic chronograph movement with a daring open design and upgraded 72-hour power reserve were the main features of this new model. It also furthered Hublot’s talent for experimenting with unusual natural materials, featuring culinary-grade steel and their scratch-proof ‘Magic Gold’ alongside composites like ceramic.
Over the years, technological developments and more experimentation with unique material combinations led to the arrival of eye-catching uber-luxe models such as the Meca-10 King Gold. This watch features an astonishing 10-day power reserve in addition to a case of warm-coloured metal named King Gold. This metal is an extension of Magic Gold, a fusion of gold, copper and platinum that provides protection against damage and gives a perfect polished finish.
Most recently, Hublot has launched the Big Bang E, a Google Wear OS-powered smartwatch that demonstrates how the brand will be staying ahead of the game with the rapid developments being made in wearable technology.
Image credit: HUBLOT BIG BANG e | Hublot US