When it comes to coloured ceramic, there is one watchmaker that is way ahead of the pack, and that’s Hublot. It all started in 2005 with the original Big Bang collection which introduced black ceramic to the brand. From there, Hublot mastered white ceramic, grey, several shades of blue, indigo, red, green, beige, yellow, orange, khaki, and the list goes on. It isn’t only the colour that is interesting for Hublot, however, ceramic has a number of interesting properties for watchmaking, including the fact that it is hypoallergenic, lightweight, and scratch resistant, making it the perfect choice for watches that are built to withstand busy lifestyles.
The Colour Challenge
Changing the colour of ceramic sounds like it shouldn’t be that difficult, but it is far more complex than just adding a few drops of dye. Different pigments and colourants react differently to the extremely high temperatures required to manufacture ceramic, making it difficult to achieve harmonious and vibrant colours throughout the material. Chemical interactions between colourants, clay bodies, and glazes can also lead to defects during the firing process such as cracking. Each new colour requires extensive research, experimentation, and expertise in material science to get it just right for the high standards of luxury watchmaking.
The Art of Fusion
Not only has Hublot found ways to expand the colour palette but it has also managed to make all kinds of components and parts out of ceramic, from the bezel to the case, the dial to the bracelet, even the ball bearings in the movement can be made out of ceramic. This colourful journey is the continuation of Jean-Claude Biver’s (CEO from 2004 to 2014) “The Art of Fusion” philosophy where he introduced the experimentation of different materials to house the brand’s high-end mechanics.
LVMH Watch Week New Releases
For this year’s LVMH Watch Week, Hublot is celebrating its expertise in coloured ceramic with three new Spirit of Big Bang models in hues of sky blue, dark green and sand beige. These gender-neutral colours have previously been seen in the round-shaped Big Bang models, but this is the first time they have been employed in the barrel-shaped Spirit of Big Bang collection. The bezels and cases are made from coloured ceramic while the indexes, chronograph counters, hands, and structured rubber straps are colour-matched for a striking aesthetic.
Each Spirit of Big Bang model is powered by Hublot’s Calibre HUB4700 self-winding skeleton chronograph movement, which is comprised of 278 components and comes with a 50-hour power reserve. This movement is a modernized version of the highly rated El Primero movement that was first launched in 1969 and comes with a low friction silicon escape wheel for improved performance. The movement can also be admired though the sapphire crystals on both sides of the watch.
Limited to 200 pieces in each colour, these new shades of ceramic bring a whole new look to the Spirit of Big Bang collection. They are available in Hublot boutiques and at authorised dealers for the price of CHF 24,900. For more information hublot.com.
