The renowned Swiss watchmaker, Hublot, is on a quest to redefine monochrome sophistication with its unique Essential Grey collection. In 2023, the esteemed brand has launched a fresh addition to this line – the Spirit of Big Bang Essential Grey, following last year’s introduction of the Big Bang Unico Essential Grey.
The Essential Grey collection showcases Hublot’s innovative approach, consisting of a different model every year, limited editions, and a single colour scheme: grey. Each Essential Grey timepiece is distinct, meaning it is both the first and last of its kind. As is the case with its predecessors, the Spirit of Big Bang Essential Grey will be an exclusive piece, with only 100 pieces manufactured and available solely online.
With this new release, Hublot maintains its tradition of excellence and novelty in the art of watchmaking. As a part of the only Hublot collection featuring barrel-shaped watches, the Spirit of Big Bang Essential Grey is crafted entirely from titanium, demonstrating a harmonious blend of durability and aesthetics. This includes every component, from the case, bezel, screws, and crown to the push-pieces, case-back, and folding clasp. The radiant hue of titanium complements the grey model perfectly, providing an elegant chromatic property.
The barrel-shaped case has a diameter of 42mm and a height of 14.10mm, with alternating satin-finished and polished surfaces that accentuate its lines. The timepiece also offers a substantial water resistance of up to 10 ATM (100 metres / 330 feet).
The real spectacle lies in the dial, an openworked masterpiece that offers a glimpse into the high-frequency HUB4700 Calibre architecture. This automatic chronograph movement vibrates at an impressive 5 Hz, or 36,000 vibrations per hour. The Spirit of Big Bang Essential Grey has added variations for enhanced legibility, particularly with the date disc positioned at 4:30, and the chronograph counters at 3 o’clock for minutes and 6 o’clock for hours.
Hublot’s latest offering doesn’t shy away from a textural variety, boasting a combination of mirror polishing, drawn lines, graining, luminescent hour markers, and rhodium-plated hands. This amalgamation creates a visually enthralling effect, giving the watch a sense of depth and allure. The transparent sapphire crystal caseback further enriches the timepiece’s appeal, showcasing the openworked oscillating weight that yields a power reserve of up to 50 hours.
Like all Hublot watches, the Spirit of Big Bang Essential Grey comes with the convenient One-Click system, enabling swift bracelet changes without the need for tools. It arrives with two straps: a grey grooved rubber strap lined with black thread on the outer edge, and a grey fabric strap with a Velcro buckle and ceramic.
The Hublot Spirit of Big Bang Essential Grey ref. 642.NX.0110.NR.HEC23 is a testament to Hublot’s commitment to innovative design and superior craftsmanship. With only 100 pieces available, priced at CHF 22,900 / Euro 25,200 / US$ 24,100, it is indeed a cherished possession for watch enthusiasts. The watch is exclusively available for purchase on the official Hublot website, setting a new precedent for online luxury watch sales. ANd don’t forget to check our list of the most expensive watches ever.
