The Big Bang Unico Pink Sapphire: Hublot's Latest Innovation

Hublot's innovative use of sapphire cases began in 2016 with the introduction of the Big Bang Unico Sapphire a fully sapphire-cased watch. This marked the start of Hublot's deep dive into sapphire as a key material in high-end watches. Since then, Hublot has significantly expanded its sapphire collection, offering models in various vibrant colors, including transparent blue, yellow, red, and now, pink.

Glossary

DLC

Diamond Like Carbon (DLC) coating technology,Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) coating technology combines the hardness of diamonds with the flexibility of carbon. Luxury watch components are coated with DLC to enhance durability, scratch resistance, and aesthetics.

PANERAI LUMINOR CALIFORNIA 8 DAYS DLC 44MM PAM00779

Understanding DLC Coat Technology:
DLC coating technology involves the application of a thin layer of diamond-like carbon coating onto watch components. DLC is a synthetic material that exhibits properties similar to natural diamond, including exceptional hardness, low friction, and resistance to wear and corrosion. The coating is achieved through a specialized deposition process, resulting in a highly protective and visually appealing finish.

The DLC coating process typically comprises the following steps:

Surface Preparation: Before applying the DLC coating, the watch component's surface is meticulously cleaned and prepared to ensure proper adhesion and optimal coating quality.

Deposition Technique: DLC coating is applied using various deposition techniques, such as chemical vapor deposition (CVD) or physical vapor deposition (PVD). These techniques involve depositing carbon-based molecules onto the surface, creating a thin layer of amorphous carbon.

Bonding and Hardening: Once the DLC coating is applied, it undergoes a bonding and hardening process to achieve the desired hardness and durability. This process may involve subjecting the coated component to high temperatures or plasma treatment, which enhances the adhesion and strengthens the coating.

Finishing Touches: After the DLC coating has hardened, the watch component undergoes final finishing touches, such as polishing, to enhance the aesthetic appeal and ensure a seamless integration with the overall design of the timepiece.

DLC coat technology offers numerous benefits and finds applications in various watch components, including cases, bezels, crowns, and bracelets. Some of the key advantages of DLC-coated watches include:

Enhanced Durability: DLC coatings provide excellent scratch resistance, protecting watch components from everyday wear and tear. The hardness of the coating ensures long-lasting beauty and prevents surface damage.

Low Friction and Wear Resistance: The low friction properties of DLC coatings reduce wear on moving parts, improving the longevity and precision of the watch's mechanical movements.

Aesthetic Appeal: DLC coatings offer a sleek, matte-black or anthracite-gray appearance, adding a modern and sophisticated touch to the overall design of the timepiece. The black DLC coating creates a striking contrast against other materials and can be combined with various finishes for a visually captivating look.

Maintenance and Care:
DLC-coated watches require minimal maintenance and are relatively easy to care for. Regular cleaning with a soft cloth and avoiding abrasive materials or chemicals help preserve the integrity and appearance of the DLC coating.