Hands on A Glimpse into the Future: The Arsham Droplet by Hublot

Pocket watches continue to hold a unique place, not only in the hearts of enthusiasts who cherish their craftsmanship and timeless allure but also among brands that find inspiration in their vintage elegance. While pocket watches may seem like relics of a bygone era, they remain a compelling reminder of the roots of watchmaking and the technological strides that have shaped the timepieces we admire today.  

Yet, one might wonder, why should modern enthusiasts care about pocket watches? The truth is, not everyone does, at least not at first glance. The appeal of pocket watches lies in their ability to intrigue those already curious about the history and artistry of timekeeping. For others, wristwatch, with its practicality and trend-setting designs, often takes precedence.  

This is precisely what makes Hublot’s release a unique revelation. Traditionally recognized for its bold and contemporary wristwatches, Hublot stepped into uncharted territory this year with the Arsham Droplet. Created in collaboration with visionary contemporary artist Daniel Arsham, this reimagined pocket watch blends antique aesthetics with cutting-edge materials. The result? A modern masterpiece that challenges conventions and raises the intriguing question: could this mark the revival of pocket watches in a way that resonates with today’s audience?  

This bold move from Hublot is more than a statement, it’s a bridge between the past and the future, offering a fresh perspective on a category often overlooked. Whether it sparks a renaissance in pocket watch design or remains a singular innovation, one thing is clear, it's a nice unique addition to your collection. 

The Arsham Droplet is a bold and innovative piece that brings together Hublot’s technical expertise and Daniel Arsham’s creative vision. Its eye-catching drop-shaped design takes inspiration from the flowing forms of nature, giving it a unique feel. Made from a modern mix of titanium, rubber, and sapphire crystal, the watch is impressively sized at 73.2mm x 52.6mm x 22.5mm. Adding to its futuristic vibe are rubber bumpers in Arsham green, which not only protect the watch but also give it a sleek, contemporary edge. Instead of the usual classic charm, it offers a bold, futuristic vibe that reimagines what a pocket watch can be. Holding it doesn’t feel like carrying a piece of history, it feels like holding a piece of the future in the palm of your hand.

The watch is a marvel of design and engineering, built to impress inside and out. Its case is secured with a robust double sealing system, using 17 O-ring seals for a flawless seal. The sandwich-style construction features two domed, teardrop-shaped sapphire crystals that draw you into the open-worked dial. Speaking of the dial, it is varnished in Arsham Green, and doesn’t just look good, it’s functional too, as the power reserve indicator sits at 6 o’clock, and a small seconds sub-dial is at 9 o’clock.

At the heart of the watch beats the HUB1201 Manufacture MECA-10 manual-winding movement, a piece of precision operating at 21,600 vph (3Hz) and delivering an impressive 10-day power reserve. This timepiece features two titanium chains with Hublot’s patented double "one-click" system, allowing it to transition seamlessly from a necklace to a pocket watch, or even serve as a sculptural centerpiece on its titanium and mineral glass table stand, making it a table watch. The watch is limited to just 99 pieces, and priced at CHF 80,000, which is approximately AED 330,500. 

For more information, you can visit Hublot’s official website.