In the world of luxury watches,
Hublot has carved a niche for itself with audacious designs and innovative materials. The brand's affinity for pushing boundaries is evident in its partnerships with diverse fields, from sports to art. Now, Hublot takes to the open seas with the Big Bang Unico Sailing Team, a timepiece inspired by the thrilling world of competitive sailing. This watch is not merely an homage; it's a testament to Hublot's commitment to precision, performance, and the adventurous spirit.
Before delving into the specifics of the Big Bang Unico Sailing Team, it's worth understanding Hublot's DNA. Founded in 1980, Hublot disrupted the watchmaking scene by combining precious metals with unconventional materials like rubber. This "Art of Fusion" philosophy became the brand's signature, leading to iconic collections like the Big Bang. Hublot's watches are instantly recognizable, thanks to their bold aesthetics and cutting-edge technology. They are not for the faint of heart; they are for those who appreciate a blend of tradition and modernity.
Courtesy of Hublot
The Big Bang Unico Sailing Team is intrinsically linked to Hublot's ambassador, Alan Roura. This Swiss professional sailor has made waves in the competitive sailing world, notably becoming the youngest competitor in the Vendée Globe's history at 23. Roura's dedication to his craft, his relentless pursuit of excellence, and his adventurous spirit resonate with Hublot's values. The watch is not just a symbol of the partnership; it's a tool that accompanies Roura on his daring voyages, a testament to the synergy between man and machine.
The Big Bang Unico Sailing Team is part of Hublot's esteemed Big Bang UNICO collection. This line is known for its in-house chronograph movement, the UNICO caliber. This movement is a marvel of engineering, offering a flyback chronograph function, a column wheel visible from the dial side, and a 72-hour power reserve. The UNICO caliber is a testament to Hublot's commitment to horological innovation, ensuring that the Big Bang UNICO Sailing Team is not just a stylish accessory but a precision instrument.
Courtesy of Hublot
The Big Bang Unico Sailing Team's design is a visual treat, drawing inspiration from Hublot's IMOCA racing yacht. The watch's 42mm case is crafted from shiny black carbon fiber, a material known for its lightness and durability. This choice is not merely aesthetic; it reflects the need for a robust yet comfortable watch in the demanding environment of competitive sailing. The black and yellow color scheme further accentuates the nautical theme, evoking the dynamic energy of the open sea.
The dial is a study in contrasts, with a matte black finish providing a stark backdrop for the luminous hands and indices. The chronograph subdials add a layer of complexity, while the date window at 3 o'clock maintains practicality. The strap is a black fabric with Velcro fastening and a black ceramic sport buckle, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit even during intense activity. The watch also comes with an additional black and yellow lined structured rubber strap for versatility.
As mentioned earlier, the Big Bang Unico Sailing Team is powered by Hublot's in-house UNICO caliber. This self-winding chronograph flyback movement is a testament to Hublot's watchmaking prowess. It beats at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour, ensuring accuracy and precision. The 72-hour power reserve is a practical feature, allowing the watch to keep ticking even when not worn for a few days. The movement's intricate workings are partially visible through the sapphire crystal case back, offering a glimpse into the watch's mechanical soul.
Courtesy of Hublot
The use of carbon fiber in the Big Bang Unico Sailing Team's construction is noteworthy. This material, often used in motor racing and aerospace, is prized for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio. It is also resistant to corrosion and temperature changes, making it ideal for a watch that might be exposed to harsh conditions. Hublot's expertise in working with carbon fiber is evident in the watch's seamless finish and intricate details.
At its core, the Big Bang Unico Sailing Team is a chronograph, a tool designed to measure elapsed time. But it's far from your average stopwatch. The UNICO manufacture caliber HUB1280 is a marvel of modern watchmaking. It boasts a flyback function, allowing for instant resetting and restarting of the chronograph with a single push. The column wheel, visible through the dial, is a hallmark of high-end chronographs, ensuring smooth and precise operation of the timing functions.
With a power reserve of 72 hours, the watch can be set aside for a weekend and still be ready to go on Monday morning. This is a testament to the efficiency of the movement's design and the careful selection of materials. The movement's 330 components work in harmony, each playing a crucial role in ensuring accuracy and reliability.
Courtesy of Hublot
The Big Bang Unico Sailing Team's 42mm case is crafted from carbon fiber, a material renowned for its strength and lightness. This choice is not just about aesthetics; it's about functionality. A lightweight watch is more comfortable to wear, especially during long hours on the water. Carbon fiber's resistance to corrosion and temperature changes is another advantage, ensuring the watch can withstand the elements.
The watch's water resistance of 100 meters (10 ATM) is more than sufficient for sailing and other water activities. The sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment ensures clarity and legibility even in bright sunlight. The matte black dial provides a striking contrast to the luminous hands and indices, making it easy to read the time at a glance.
The Big Bang Unico Sailing Team comes with two straps, offering versatility and adaptability. The black fabric strap with Velcro fastening is perfect for active pursuits, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit. The black and yellow lined structured rubber strap adds a touch of sportiness and can be easily swapped in for a change of pace. Both straps feature a black ceramic sport buckle, adding a touch of luxury and durability.
Courtesy of Hublot
At USD 25,200, the Hublot Big Bang Unico Sailing Team is positioned in the luxury watch segment. However, it offers a compelling value proposition for discerning collectors. The watch's limited production run of 100 pieces ensures exclusivity. Its association with Alan Roura and the world of competitive sailing adds a layer of storytelling and emotional connection.
The watch's technical specifications are impressive, with the in-house UNICO caliber being a major highlight. The use of carbon fiber in the case construction is another distinguishing feature, showcasing Hublot's commitment to innovation. The watch's overall design is bold and distinctive, sure to turn heads wherever it goes.