Hublot

Reshaping the Luxury Watch Industry

Swiss luxury watch manufacturer Hublot has been making waves with its extraordinary designs, unusual material combinations, and high-end craftsmanship since its founding in Nyon, Switzerland in 1980. Company founder Carlo Crocco set the tone with his very first collection, which included the world's first gold watch on a rubber strap. This timepiece also introduced the brand's unique and now iconic bezel with prominent screws. Crocco based the watch on a ship's porthole. In fact, the company's name, "Hublot," is French for "porthole."

Watches in seemingly contrasting materials continue to define the moden Fusion collection. For example, the Nylon-based brand is the only company to manufacture "Magic Gold," a yellow gold/ceramic alloy. Some watches also feature carbon, sapphire, titanium, textile, or even a type of concrete.

However, it's not just the materials that make Hublot watches unique, their designs are equally exceptional. The most notable example is the Big Bang. At up to 45 mm in diameter, it more than earns its name and quickly became a favorite among watch enthusiasts the world over. By Hublot standards, the Classic Fusion line is rather tame, while the MP collection looks like it belongs in a science fiction film. Then there's the Spirit of Big Bang collection, which features barrel-shaped cases. In 2022, Hublot also added a series of square watches to their catalog, which the manufacture offers under the aptly named Square Bang.

A look inside these timepieces is proof positive that Hublot has mastered the art of watchmaking. Here you'll find, among other things, in-house movements with bi-axial tourbillons and calibers with up to nine barrels promising over two weeks of power reserve. Watches with chronograph, GMT, and perpetual calendar functions are also part of the Hublot catalog.

Reasons to Buy a Hublot Watch

• Distinctive designs
• Innovative materials, like the gold and ceramic alloy "Magic Gold"
• In-house calibers like the HUB6016 with a tourbillon
• Numerous limited editions with potential to appreciate in value
• Collaboration with Ferrari on the MP-05 with a 50-day power reserve

Prices at a Glance: Hublot Watches

How much does a Hublot watch cost?

Prices for Hublot watches start at around 1,000 USD. At this end of the spectrum, you'll find classic quartz caliber models from the 1980s and '90s.

For something from a more recent collection, you'll have to make a much larger investment. You should budget around 3,300 USD for a three-hand watch from the Classic Fusion range with a quartz drive and stainless steel case. A comparable model in titanium with an automatic movement will set you back about 6,760 USD. Automatic chronographs with titanium cases can easily cost 9,400 USD or more.

Prices for unworn watches from the Big Bang collection start at around 9,900 USD on average, with special models like the Big Bang Chrono Tourbillon Ferrari going for over 100,000 USD. You'll have to dig even deeper for rarities like the Big Bang Integrated Full Sapphire, which changes hands for roughly 372,000 USD.

Square-shaped Square Bang models range in price from around 20,500 to 48,000 USD, while futuristic watches in the MP series generally cost between 83,000 and 500,000 USD.

Big Bang: Hublot’s Flagship Model

Big Bang Unico With Modular In-House Movement

The Big Bang Unico range offers a particularly wide variety of models, with case diameters of 45 mm and 42 mm. The name Unico is derived from the in-house movement used in the Unico series, which consists of more than 330 individual parts and is assembled by hand. The basic movement is designed to allow the addition of various complications. For example, certain Unico models have a flyback chronograph, GMT function, or perpetual calendar. Even a watch as special as the Big Bang Unico Golf, which allows golfers to count the number of strokes and holes, can be realized in this way. The movement of all models in the range can be viewed from both the front and the back, thanks to an elaborately skeletonized dial and sapphire crystal case back.

Hublot offers Unico watches in titanium, King Gold, carbon fiber, aluminum, and ceramic versions. Ceramic versions come in a variety of colors, including red, blue, olive green, beige, and – as of 2024 – orange. Also presented in 2024, the version with a case made entirely of pink sapphire crystal offers a particularly deep view of the movement. Hublot also offers the Big Bang Unico with diamonds on the bezel and bracelet.

Reserved Design: The Big Bang Original and Integrated Time Only

If the Big Bang Unico seems too large or playful, you may prefer the Big Bang Original. Here you have the choice between watches with a diameter of 38 mm, 41 mm, or 44 mm. Thanks to their more traditional dials and lack of skeletonization, Original models are much more understated than their Unico counterparts. The collection also includes three-hand models as well as chronographs and diamond-set models. Along with automatic calibers, this line of 38-mm watches also offers versions with precise quartz movements.

Like the other Big Bang models, Hublot crafts these watches in a wide variety of materials: from stainless steel and ceramic to various gold editions.

As the name suggests, the Big Bang 3-Hands collection is a line of watches with three hands. Standard models measure 33 or 39 mm in diameter and are made of either stainless steel, King Gold, or sapphire crystal. The bezel and/or case are usually set with diamonds or other precious stones. Each is powered by an automatic caliber based on the Zenith Elite 670 or the Sellita SW-300-1.

In 2022, the 3-Hands collection was expanded to include the Big Bang Integrated Time Only. This watch is distinguished from other models in the collection by its integrated bracelet, and is available in titanium, ceramic, and rose gold, and in diameters of 40 and 38 mm. Hublot presented the latter at Watches and Wonders 2024.

Big Bang Special Editions

Watches in the Big Bang Sang Bleu and Sang Bleu II collections feature a futuristic design created by Swiss designer and tattoo artist Maxime Büchi, famous for his geometric designs. The time is indicated not by normal watch hands, but by a series of stacked polygonal discs.

The first Sang Bleu edition displays only the time and is available in 39 and 45 mm. The smaller models are available in steel or gold, while the 45-mm Sang Bleu is available in gold, titanium or ceramic. Both models are also available in special pavé editions with diamond-studded cases. All sizes are available in pavé versions with diamond-encrusted cases.

Debuting in 2019, the Sang Bleu II adheres to the design principles of the original Sang Bleu, but is powered by the Unico caliber1240 and features a flyback chronograph. The case measures 45 mm in diameter and is available in titanium or King Gold. Two years later, Hublot expanded the range with versions in blue or green ceramic and Magic Gold.

In 2024, Hublot launched the Spirit of Big Bang Sang Bleu High Jewelry and Sang Bleu Sapphire, tonneau-shaped versions of the Sang Bleu. The former version is available in white and King Gold and covered with diamonds. The Sang Bleu Sapphire, as the name suggests, is made of sapphire crystal. The watches are 42 mm across and equipped with the skeletonized chronograph caliber HUB4700.

MECA-10 and MP-11: The Manual Big Bang

Unlike the other series in the Big Bang collection, the Big Bang Meca-10 watches use manual calibers. Unlike other lines in the Big Bang collection, the Big Bang MECA-10 series watches are powered by manual calibers. The Meca caliber HUB1201 has a ten-day power reserve and a power reserve indicator at 6 o'clock that lets you know when the watch needs to be wound. The Big Bang MECA-10 is available in ceramic, titanium, King Gold and Magic Gold.

Another interesting model in the Big Bang collection is the MP-11. In these watches, Hublot uses its in-house manual winding caliber HUB9011, which offers a power reserve of 14 days thanks to its seven serial barrels. Material options include King Gold, ceramic, carbon fiber, and sapphire crystal. Since 2024, Hublot also offers the latter variant in a light blue color called Water Blue.

The Big Bang With a Tourbillon and Other Complications

In 2021, Hublot presented the Big Bang Tourbillon Automatic, a successor to the Big Bang Tourbillon Power Reserve 5 Days. The biggest difference between the two models is their movements. While the manual caliber HUB6016 set the pace in the latter, the automatic caliber HUB6035 now ticks in the new version. The movement has a tourbillon at 6 o'clock. At 12 o'clock, Hublot has integrated a microrotor that powers the watch. The bridges of the movement are made of sapphire crystal, allowing a deep view of the mechanism.

Hublot demonstrated its watchmaking expertise in the spring of 2022. The Big Bang Integral Tourbillon Cathedral Minute Repeater has both a tourbillon and a minute repeater thanks to the manual caliber HUB801. The movement is embedded in a ceramic case – a world first for a repeater caliber. Until now, this material was not considered suitable for this type of watch due to its moderate acoustic properties. However, Hublot has found a way to transmit the sound of the striking mechanism cleanly to the outside world. The watch is strictly limited to 18 black and 18 white pieces.

LaFerrari: The MP Collection and Its Massive Power Reserve

If you think the design of the Big Bang is unique, the MP collection goes even further. The MP-05 in particular looks like a top secret project from a high-tech lab. Known as "LaFerrari," the 46-mm case is pear-shaped and resembles a race car's engine block. The watch is available in either titanium or sapphire crystal. Instead of hands, the MP-05 uses multiple rotating cylinders with numbers on them for its various displays. The power reserve indicator is on the right, while the hours and minutes are on the left. The seconds dial is located below these two elements. The manual winding caliber with its vertical tourbillon can be seen in the center of the dial.

The eleven barrels arranged in a row are a particular eye-catcher; normal watches have only one or two barrels. Since the number of barrels determines the duration of the power reserve, the MP-05 only stops after 50 days – a sensational achievement for a wristwatch.

MP-09 and Techframe

The MP-09 is in no way inferior to the other MP models, neither technically nor visually. The bi-axial tourbillon, which breaks through the bezel at 6 o'clock and rotates simultaneously around the vertical and horizontal axes, attracts ample attention. The watch comes in titanium or carbon fiber, and is available in gem-set versions as well.

The Techframe is also part of the MP collection and was designed by Ferrari's chief designer, Flavio Manzoni. This single push-piece chronograph with tourbillon not only has a skeletonized dial, but also a skeletonized case. In addition to titanium and carbon fiber, this timepiece is also available in white gold or shimmering King Gold.

MP-10 With Innovative Winding System

The MP-10 Tourbillon Weight Energy System unveiled in 2024 features a new type of winding system. Instead of a conventional rotor, Hublot has equipped its in-house caliber HUB9013 with two weights that move back and forth inside the watch in a straight line. The movement is also features a tourbillon inclined at an angle of 35° and a 48-hour power reserve. The 41.5-mm rectangular case with its rounded edges is made of titanium and sapphire crystal. The Hublot MP-10 Tourbillon Weight Energy System is limited to just 50 pieces.

The Sleek Classic Fusion

The Classic Fusion has a much more conventional design than the MP or Big Bang. The three-hand version with center seconds and a date display is available in case sizes of 29, 33, 38, 42, and 45 mm. By Hublot standards, this variant of the Classic Fusion are downright purist. Its distinctive feature is its bezel, which is held in place by six decorative screws. Other variants feature a chronograph function, moon phase display, or power reserve indicator. The Ultra-Thin version of the Classic Fusion features an ultra-thin case.

The Classic Fusion with a minute repeater and tourbillon is likewise technically intricate. The collection also offers a selection of interesting materials, such as dials and straps in suit fabric for the Italia Independent models, or leather for the Classic Fusion Berluti. To celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Classic Fusion in 2020, Hublot presented three particularly understated versions. Available in titanium, yellow gold, or black ceramic, the most striking feature of these 45 mm watches is the dial. Like the original Classic Fusion from 1980, the dial features only the brand's logo at 12 o'clock and a date display at 3.

AeroFusion and Orlinski

Two interesting alternatives to the conventional Classic Fusion are the AeroFusion and the Classic Fusion Orlinski. The former is a variant of the Classic Fusion Chronograph with a skeletonized movement. The housing has also grown by three millimeters to an even 45 mm. The AeroFusion is available in titanium, black ceramic, or King Gold. Pavé models with diamond-set cases are also available.

The Classic Fusion Orlinski was designed by French Pop Art artist Richard Orlinski. Orlinski is known for creating multifaceted sculptures. These facets can also be found on the dial, case, and bracelet of the Classic Fusion bearing his name. The three-hand version of this watch has a diameter of 40 mm and is available in titanium, King Gold, and various ceramic variants. The latter are available in black, red, and, since 2021, bright blue. Chronographs with a diameter of 45 mm are also available. Here you have a choice between red or light blue ceramic.

The Alternatives: King Power and Spirit of Big Bang

The Spirit of Big Bang can be considered a tonneau-shaped offshoot of the Big Bang series. The 45 and 42-mm chronograph versions are powered by the caliber HUB4700, a modified Zenith El Primero.

Other interesting Spirit of Big Bang models include the Spirit Tourbillon and the Spirit Meca-10. The former uses the skeletonized in-house caliber HUB6020 with a tourbillon and a 115-hour power reserve. Hublot equips the Meca-10 with the manual caliber HUB1233. This movement is also skeletonized and manufactured in-house.

Hublot also offers a special ladies' version of the Spirit of Big Bang with three hands. The watch has a moderate size of 39 mm and is available in gold, titanium, or ceramic. What's more, each one has a bezel set with diamonds. The watch is powered by the Zenith Elite 670 with a 50-hour power reserve and date display.

King Power

The King Power collection shares many similarities with the Big Bang in terms of design. It's somewhat more angular than the Big Bang and also comes in ceramic, King Gold, or titanium. However, any search for this model in the current collection will be in vain, as Hublot retired it years ago. The variety of movements and complications is equally diverse.

Square Bang: The Square Big Bang

In the spring of 2022, Hublot added a new variant to the Big Bang collection, the Square Bang. This watch has a square case and is powered by the Unico chronograph caliber 1280 with a flyback function, date display, and 72-hour power reserve.

The case measures 42 mm across and is available in titanium, black ceramic, or King Gold. As of spring 2024, the Square Bang is also available in scratch-resistant Magic Gold and various combinations of gold, ceramic, and titanium. The collection now also includes a Rainbow model with a case decorated with sapphire crystals in all the colors of the rainbow.

Special Editions for Athletes and Artists

Limited editions created by Hublot in collaboration with big names from the world of sport and entertainment are true collectors' items. The list of brand ambassadors includes such illustrious names as Usain Bolt, Novak Djokovic, Kylian Mbappé, Floyd Mayweather, Bar Refaeli, Lang Lang, and Depeche Mode. Each timepiece is the result of close collaboration with the celebrity, and some are available in extremely limited editions. In the case of the Depeche Mode watch, you are also doing something good with your purchase: the profits from the sale will support the "charity: water" project, which has already provided more than 30,000 people in Nepal and Ethiopia with clean drinking water. If you'd like to own one of these unique limited-edition watches, you'll need to be prepared to spend between 16,600 and 21,000 USD on hand.

Hublot and Soccer

Along with Formula 1 racing, Hublot pays particular attention to the worldwide number one national sport – soccer. Hublot has been a sponsor and the official timekeeper of the UEFA Champions League, Europa League, European Football Championship, and the FIFA World Cup for years. A special limited edition timepiece is launched for each major event. A recent example is the Big Bang E FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 smartwatch, created for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

On the occasion of the 2024 European Championship in Germany, Hublot once again presented a special model: the Big Bang E Gen 3 UEFA Euro 2024. Hublot equipped all referees at the tournament with the watch. The substitution board used by the fourth official was also in the shape of a stylized Big Bang and bore the Hublot logo.

But Hublot doesn't limit itself to major tournaments: The watchmaker has also partnered with top teams such as Juventus FC, FC Bayern Munich, Chelsea FC, and SL Benfica, and has honored these collaborations with special editions of its watches.

The History of Hublot

Italian Carlo Crocco founded the company, MDM Genève, in 1980. That same year, he introduced the first-ever wristwatch with a natural rubber strap at the watch trade show Baselworld. At the time, "Hublot" was simply the name for one of his watch models. Crocco had designed his first watch back in 1967. In 2004, Jean-Claude Biver, who had previously brought both Blancpain and Omega back from the brink, was appointed CEO of Hublot. One year later, Hublot was the recipient of countless awards from the watchmaking industry for their then-new series, the Big Bang. In 2008, the luxury goods group LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton S.A. bought Hublot from its founder Carlo Crocco. LVMH also owns TAG Heuer, Zenith, and Bvlgari.

Ricardo Guadalupe has been at the helm of Hublot since 2012, while Biver remains in the background as chairman of the board. The two men previously worked together at Blancpain.