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

The concept of "Art of Fusion" was first introduced by Hublot in 2005, when then-CEO Jean-Claude Biver coined the phrase. Central to this idea was the brand's pioneering work in material development. This approach goes beyond mere design; it encompasses the innovative use of materials, craftsmanship, and techniques that push the boundaries of what is possible in horology.

To achieve its "Art of Fusion," Hublot established its own Metallurgy and Materials Laboratory, working closely with its Research and Development department and its in-house foundry. The materials created here are unique to Hublot and are crafted using the latest technologies, specific to watchmaking. 

Notably, Hublot developed Magic Gold, the first scratch-proof gold, a revolutionary composite material combining gold and ceramic. The company continued to innovate, moving from ceramic cases to fully sapphire cases.

In the pursuit of the perfect fusion between movement and case, Hublot engineers and chemists developed a transparent material that not only reveals the heart of the watch but is also robust enough to protect the mechanism. This resulted in Hublot becoming an expert in synthetic sapphire, a material renowned for its aesthetic qualities, transforming each watch into a true work of art.

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.

The new Big Bang Unico Pink Sapphire features a 42mm diameter case. The case, bezel, and case back are all made from sapphire—the same highly scratch-resistant material used for the watch crystal, which is nearly as hard as diamond. 

Hublot employs high-tech machining techniques to cut and polish this material, achieving a sophisticated and intricate design. Hublot has also developed a special sapphire crystal that is transparent and colorful, as seen in this pink version.

The iconic H-shaped screws and the One Click system, patented by Hublot for interchangeable straps, are positioned at 12 and 6 o'clock. The crown and pushers are crafted from titanium.

The skeletonized dial is made from transparent resin, with central hour, minute, and seconds hands. The pink lume applied to these hands and the transparent hour indices enhances legibility. 

Another distinctive feature is the column wheel at 6 o'clock, while the date disc is entirely visible around the movement, with the aperture placed in the center of the 60-minute counter at 3 o'clock. The chronograph subdials are also transparent, with indices highlighted in pink SuperLuminova.

The HUB1280 caliber, the second generation of the Unico chronograph movement, has been reduced in thickness by 1.3mm. The engineers in Nyon worked hard to make the calibre 1280 slim enough, reducing its thickness from 8.05 mm to 6.75 mm.

Showcased beneath the captivating transparent case back, this new generation chronograph flyback encapsulates the distinctive blend of technical prowess and aesthetic sophistication that defines the Unico. The movement's skeletonized tungsten oscillating weight, finished in black PVD, not only enhances its visual appeal but also underscores its commitment to both form and function. 

Comprising 354 components and 43 jewels, the HUB1280 operates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (A/h) and boasts an impressive power reserve of approximately 72 hours.

The watch is fitted with transparent pink rubber straps and a deployant buckle made of aluminum and stainless steel. The Pink Sapphire is limited to just 100 pieces, with a price of USD121,000.

 For more information visit Hublot official website.