This week, during a private watch exhibition held by LVMH in Dubai, Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessey luxury watch brand Hublot introduced a redesigned version of their Big Bang line, with its first integrated bracelet.
The new Big Bang Integral case and pushers have been restyled, and definitely appear to carry over some of the design-language from TAG Heuer (particularly the angular beveled case edges) whereas the dial and bezel have remained identical to the existing model 42 mm x 14.5 mm Big Bang model.
For the 15th year, the watch retains its sandwich construction but now without a composite resin insert that’s been replaced with the same metal as the case, although the black composite resin lugs on the bezel and crown over-molded with rubber remain from the existing Big Bang. According to Hublot, the pushers were inspired by the original model from 2005, which in turn provided the design direction on the bracelet.
Marked by prominent applied faceted indices, large skeletonized hands, an open-worked dial, a date wheel visible around the entire peripheral, and an interplay of polished and matte surfaces (like found on the case exterior) this chronograph shows off its mechanics, dial side, without sacrificing legibility.
Underneath the dial is the 43 jewel caliber HUB1280 Unico movement V2 which beats at 4Hz, has 354 total components, and a 72-hour power reserve. The 30 mm x 6.75 mm chronograph movement is equipped with a horizontal double clutch chronograph mechanism, column-wheel (visible from the dial), an oscillating seconds clutch, a chronograph friction system with ball bearing adjustment, a ratchet retaining system with unidirectional gears, and index-assembly fine adjustment system. Much of this is on view through the exhibition caseback, secured by size screws.
Available in lightweight titanium, scratch-proof black ceramic (limited to 500 pieces), and King Gold which is an alloy made of gold, copper, and platinum that results in a rich red 18K gold color that does not fade over time.
The Big Bang Integral retail price is $20,900 in titanium, $23,100 in black ceramic, and $52,500 in King Gold.
Photos by Hublot.
