Hublot recently added another sapphire case timepiece to its current collection after the release of the sapphire crystal-cased version of the MP-05 La Ferrari. Besides its impressive looks, the watch seems to be the most affordable sample regarding the all sapphire case watch concept with its 55000 CHF price tag.
In the meantime, Hublot Big Bang UNICO Sapphire is not just a transparent sapphire case timepiece. It does have additional transparent accents like a hand set and a strap. In practice, the watch offers a new level of transparency among the rivals in the same concept.
In fact, I am not a big fan of transparency in watches. I am not against it at all but I think its good if there is something that deserves to be shown. A plain Valjoux 7750 movement in an entry level watch is not exciting but, a Geneva Seal Roger Dubuis movement is too beautiful to be kept under a solid case back. At the end of the day, it’s an interesting concept and Hublot Big Bang UNICO Sapphire is the best sample I’ve seen so far.
As I mentioned before Hublot Big Bang UNICO Sapphire is a very transparent watch. At the first glance, it makes you feel like you are looking at a computer rendered X-Ray of a Hublot Big Bang timepiece. In terms of legibility, Hublot Big Bang UNICO Sapphire does not provide any help rather than the SuperLuminova filled hands but, since the concept is transparency here, I am not going to complain about it.
As Jean-Claude Biver mentioned today, it’s the opposite of the all black concept however, I do not think it’s going to be as successfull as the all black concept.
The watch is powered by the in-house Hublot caliber HUB 1242 UNICO. The automatic chronograph movement beats at 4Hz and offers an impressive 72h power reserve when fully wound. The caliber’s famous column wheel transmission is visible thanks to the transparent construction.
I have to admit that Hublot Big Bang UNICO Sapphire is a cool looking timepiece however, I cannot be that positive for the “feel” of the sapphire. Strangely, I felt like I am touching a plastic or maybe a matt surface resin case. I know about the multiple processes and the precise machinery required to create such a cutting edge technology product but I somewhat could not feel it. Anways, just like the ceramic watches from Hublot, the Big Bang UNICO Sapphire will make Biver’s dream come true and will not show any signs of age.
Unfortunately, the quality feel issue goes on with the strap as well. Aesthetics wise there is no doubt about the strap which perfectly fits the transparent concept. However, the quality of the strap is a bit disappointing to me. I would quite possibly buy another strap ( cannot decide the color or material at the moment ) with the watch.
Talking about the strap, there are good news too. Hublot offers a quick strap change system. I found it quite easy and safe to operate which made me more sure about getting an extra strap with the watch.
Hublot classic folding clasp is made of titanium and operates perfectly as usual.
I would recommend the watch to anyone admire the all sapphire transparent watch concept as it’s clearly the best option as of today. Hublot’s build quality and the virtually indestructible nature of sapphire are the bonuses to go.
