Hublot Introduces Aero Bang Red Devil 26 for Man United’s Shinji Kagawa

Hublot Introduces Aero Bang Red Devil 26 for Man United’s Shinji Kagawa

Adrienne Faurote
By Adrienne Faurote March 15, 2013

Luxury watchmakers Hublot have unveiled the Aero Bang Red Devil 26, a timepiece inspired by Manchester United player Shinji Kagawa. Hublot, who are the official timekeepers and watchmaker of the prestigious soccer club, created a special limited edition model bearing the star midfielder’s number.

This week Shinji Kagawa joined the Swiss manufacture to celebrate the unveiling of the Aero Bang Red Devil 26 with a “Hublot Charity Shooting” challenge. Kagawa shot balls at ten targets, each with a different monetary value, with Hublot donating the total sum from the successful shots to support young soccer players. In total, Kagawa raised a total of JPY$3,000,000 (approximately US$31,321).

Beginning with a black carbon fiber case, this timepiece symbolizes Kagawa’s strength and flexibility. By controlling the release of air bubbles during the process of mold-pressing the carbon fiber sheeting (which can be up to 12 layers in the thickest parts) and treating it in a curing oven, the material is evened out, creating a higher level of durability. A red sapphire glass is colored by adding a special chemical element which prevents discoloration. The skeletal caseback bears a print of Kagawa’s jersey number (26) and his autograph. An alligator leather strap with a rubber lining and stitching in Manchester United’s signature red completes the look.

Only fifty Aero Bang Red Devil 26 watches will be produced worldwide, and each will be sold with a signed jersey.

Photos courtesy Hublot.