It is a beautiful autumn day in Lorient France as we set out by speed boat to join Alan Roura on his competitive foiler, an IMOCA 60 named Hublot, after his watchmaking sponsor. WorldTempus talks to him about his preparations before embarking on his third Vendée Globe, how he has modified and improved his boat, and what people would most be surprised to learn about his upcoming adventure.
It goes without saying that we are also extremely interested in his new watch, which he had a hand in designing. Named the Big Bang Unico Sailing Team, this limited edition of 100 pieces comes in a 42mm carbon fibre case, just like the boat itself, and sports a black and yellow colourway. A keen eye will notice a Swiss flag at 9 o’clock, bearing “SUI 7”, the sail number identifying Roura’s IMOCA in ocean races.
The timepiece comes with a choice of two straps – the first is a black-and-white ultra-resistant fabric strap that is woven like the boat’s main sail and features the words HUBLOT, the other comes in yellow rubber and brings out the yellow details on the watch. Both straps are fitted with a specially designed black ceramic folding clasp to keep the watch firmly on Roura’s wrist as he sails the high seas.
The watch is powered by the latest generation of the Unico Manufacture Calibre HUB1280, a self-winding chronograph that boasts a three-day power reserve and comprises 354 components. To learn more about this Hublot Big Bang Unico Sailing Team and Alan Roura’s upcoming Vendée Globe, click play on the video below.
