Grey Matters: Hublot Just Launched This Year’s Online Exclusive, The Spirit of Big Bang Essential Grey

The art of monochromatic color palettes has long been at the heart of the Hublot brand. Case in point: this year’s online boutique exclusive, the Spirit of Big Bang Essential Grey, is designed completely in a range of grey tones.

“The watch industry tends to cash in on major trends in dial colors, such as blue or green, which only seem to last a few seasons. That is not our approach. Hublot is not a follower of trends,” reveals Hublot CEO Ricardo Guadalupe. “In fact, in most cases, our models don’t even have a dial! At Hublot, if we believe in a color, we work with it across the whole model and make a limited series to preserve its value for the sake of our collectors. Either we go all out, or we don’t do it at all.”

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Hublot

Embracing the concept that colors lose their singularity when combined, Hublot presents a unique offering that appeals to both avid collectors and occasional fans of the ‘Essential Grey’ line. The Essential Grey collection follows a distinctive approach – a single color, a single model, released once a year through a single channel. This approach ensures consistency and rarity, captivating the most discerning collectors who eagerly await each new addition to create a comprehensive and cohesive collection.

As the latest addition to the Essential Grey line, the ‘Spirit of Big Bang Essential Grey,’ this model like its predecessors, is a one-of-a-kind creation and will be limited to just 100 pieces. However, what makes this release exceptional is that it will be exclusively available online at hublot.com. Hublot’s decision to offer the timepiece online reflects its commitment to providing equal opportunities for collectors worldwide, regardless of their proximity to the brand’s physical stores. Moreover, this 2023 version will be even rarer than its predecessor, with only 100 pieces produced compared to 200 in 2022.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Hublot

The Spirit of Big Bang, Hublot’s iconic barrel-shaped collection, takes center stage in the Essential Grey line this year. Crafted entirely from titanium, including the case, bezel, screws, crown, push-pieces, case-back, and folding clasp, the watch showcases the chromatic properties of this lightweight and durable material. The titanium is sandblasted and ground to achieve a soft, radiant grey, serving as the foundation for the Essential Grey version. The rubber strap is matched, featuring black thread lining on the outer edge to create a defined boundary.

Hublot pays thorough attention to detail in treating all components of the movement in the same manner. However, subtle variations are introduced to enhance legibility, particularly on the date disc and chronograph counters. The dial features a combination of finishes, including mirror polishing, drawn lines, graining, luminescent hour markers, and rhodium-plated hands, creating an interplay of depth and texture.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Hublot

Powering the Spirit of Big Bang Essential Grey is the HUB4700 Calibre, an automatic chronograph movement that operates at a high frequency of 5 Hz (36,000 vibrations per hour) and offers a 50-hour power reserve. The 42-mm case allows for ample expression, retaining its signature lateral push-pieces and ensuring water resistance up to 100 meters (10 ATM). The watch also features Hublot’s convenient One-Click system, allowing for quick and tool-free bracelet changes. Two variations of the strap are available: grey grooved rubber and grey with a Velcro buckle and ceramic.

The Spirit of Big Bang Essential Grey serves as a further testament to Hublot’s dedication to pushing boundaries, combining exceptional craftsmanship, limited availability, and digital convenience for watch enthusiasts around the world.