In the world of high watchmaking collaborations between watchmakers and sports icons have become a celebrated tradition. These partnerships often yield exceptional timepieces that embody the shared values of both worlds. One such remarkable collaboration is the recent unveiling of the Hublot Big Bang Unico Novak Djokovic watch, a testament to the fusion of horological mastery and sporting excellence.
Hublot, a Swiss luxury watch manufacturer renowned for its avant-garde designs and innovative use of materials, has a rich history that dates back to 1980. Founded by Carlo Crocco, the company quickly gained recognition for its distinctive porthole-shaped watches and its pioneering spirit in blending unexpected materials like rubber and gold. Hublot's philosophy, aptly captured by its name, which means "porthole" in French, revolves around the concept of fusion, seamlessly merging tradition and innovation.
Courtesy of Hublot
Novak Djokovic, a name synonymous with tennis greatness, needs no introduction. Widely regarded as one of the greatest tennis players of all time, Djokovic's relentless pursuit of excellence, unwavering determination, and remarkable achievements on the court have earned him a place among the sport's legends. His 24 Grand Slam titles, countless other tournament victories, and numerous records stand as a testament to his unparalleled skill, athleticism, and mental fortitude.
The Big Bang UNICO collection, first introduced in 2010, has become an iconic pillar of Hublot's watchmaking prowess. Characterized by its bold design, robust construction, and high-performance chronograph movement, the Big Bang UNICO has captivated watch enthusiasts and collectors worldwide. The collection's distinctive features, such as the prominent bezel secured by six H-shaped screws, the layered case construction, and the skeletonized dial revealing the intricate movement within, have become synonymous with Hublot's signature style.
The Hublot Big Bang Unico Novak Djokovic watch represents a harmonious blend of Hublot's watchmaking heritage, Djokovic's sporting prowess, and the Big Bang UNICO collection's distinctive design language. This limited-edition timepiece, restricted to a mere 100 pieces, is a horological masterpiece that pays homage to Djokovic's extraordinary career and his unwavering pursuit of greatness.
Courtesy of Hublot
The watch's 42mm case, crafted from a matte blue recycled composite material, is a testament to Hublot's commitment to sustainability and innovation. This unique material, derived from recycled HEAD tennis racquets and Lacoste polo shirts worn by Djokovic during his Grand Slam-winning 2023 season, not only reduces environmental impact but also adds a personal touch to the timepiece. The incorporation of Djokovic's own equipment into the watch's construction creates a tangible connection between the watch and the athlete, making it a true collector's item.
The watch's dial, a mesmerizing tapestry of blue hues, is a testament to Hublot's artistry and attention to detail. The skeletonized design, a hallmark of the Big Bang UNICO collection, allows for a captivating view of the intricate movement within. The dial's various components, such as the hands, indices, and subdials, are meticulously crafted and finished, adding to the watch's overall aesthetic appeal.
At first glance, the watch's 42mm case immediately commands attention. Crafted from a matte blue recycled composite material, the case is a testament to Hublot's commitment to sustainability and innovation. This unique material, derived from recycled HEAD tennis racquets and Lacoste polo shirts worn by Djokovic during his Grand Slam-winning 2023 season, not only reduces environmental impact but also adds a personal touch to the timepiece. The incorporation of Djokovic's own equipment into the watch's construction creates a tangible connection between the watch and the athlete, making it a true collector's item.
Courtesy of Hublot
The case's intricate texture, reminiscent of the woven fibers of the recycled racquets and shirts, adds a subtle yet captivating visual element. The matte blue finish, a departure from Hublot's often-bold color choices, exudes an understated elegance that complements the watch's sporty aesthetic. The case's lightweight construction, weighing in at a mere 49.5 grams, ensures optimal comfort on the wrist, even during intense matches.
The bezel, also crafted from the same recycled composite material, seamlessly integrates with the case, creating a cohesive and harmonious design. The bezel's six H-shaped screws, a hallmark of the Big Bang UNICO collection, add a touch of industrial flair, while the subtle domed and curved shape of the screws subtly alludes to a tennis ball, a nod to Djokovic's sport.
Beneath the scratch-resistant Gorilla Glass crystal lies a dial that is a symphony of blue hues and intricate details. The skeletonized design, a signature element of the Big Bang UNICO collection, provides a captivating glimpse into the watch's inner workings. The dial's various components, such as the hands, indices, and subdials, are meticulously crafted and finished, adding to the watch's overall aesthetic appeal.
Courtesy of Hublot
The watch's hands, coated with luminescent material for optimal legibility in low-light conditions, are designed to resemble the lines of a tennis court, another subtle reference to Djokovic's sport. The indices, also coated with luminescent material, are applied to the dial, adding depth and dimension.
The chronograph subdials, located at 3, 6, and 9 o'clock, are designed to resemble tennis ball counters, a playful nod to Djokovic's game. The subdials' contrasting colors and textures add visual interest to the dial, while their precise markings ensure accurate timekeeping.
At the heart of the Hublot Big Bang Unico Novak Djokovic beats the HUB1280 UNICO Manufacture movement, a self-winding chronograph movement crafted from lightweight aluminum. This movement, a testament to Hublot's watchmaking prowess, is not only aesthetically pleasing but also technically impressive. The movement's skeletonized design allows for a captivating view of its intricate components, while its high-frequency oscillation ensures exceptional accuracy.
The HUB1280 UNICO movement boasts a power reserve of 72 hours, ensuring that the watch can keep accurate time even when not in use. The movement's chronograph function, controlled by the yellow pusher at 2 o'clock, allows for precise measurement of elapsed time, a feature that is sure to appeal to sports enthusiasts.
Courtesy of Hublot
Completing the Hublot Big Bang Unico Novak Djokovic are four interchangeable straps, each designed to cater to different styles and occasions. The first strap, a blue elastic sweatband, is designed for optimal comfort and breathability during intense physical activity. The second strap, a blue Velcro strap with a polished blue aluminum sports buckle, offers a more casual and sporty look. The third strap, a white rubber strap with a titanium deployant buckle, provides a classic and elegant option. The fourth strap, a Lacoste-branded strap, pays homage to Djokovic's long-standing partnership with the French clothing company.
The Hublot Big Bang Unico Novak Djokovic embodies dedication, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence. With a retail price of USD 52,700, this timepiece captures the spirit of a champion, telling a story of triumph over adversity, and celebrating the fusion of horological artistry and sporting greatness.