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Big Bang Reloaded: Hublot Rewires Its Icon

Two decades on, Hublot returns to the Big Bang, refining its architecture and placing its Unico calibre centre stage.

Hublot broke the mould in 1980 by daring to pair precious gold with utilitarian rubber. The move redefined the luxury watch landscape and paved the way for the evolution of a disruptive spirit that peaked in 2005 with the Big Bang’s debut. By 2010, Hublot had asserted itself as a true manufacture with the launch of the Unico, its first proprietary chronograph movement. The brand has evolved continuously ever since, combining high-tech material science with a bold, architectural design language.

Today, the 44mm Big Bang Reloaded collection revisits the openworked Big Bang Unico, re-engineered with sharper architecture, heightened legibility, and a more expressive mechanical presence. The philosophy remains consistent: build from the inside out.

The Unico calibre, among the most accomplished integrated chronographs of its generation — designed as a chronograph from the beginning, resulting in the most elegant design solution — has its architecture exposed. The column-wheel on the dial side at 6 o’clock and the dual oscillating clutch at 8 o’clock immediately catch the eye, while discreet colour accents highlight the flyback function. A reworked chronograph counter, a date repositioned between 4 and 5 o’clock, and a refined chronograph hand sharpen legibility and performance.

The movement itself incorporates five patented innovations, including a backlash-compensating oscillating clutch and a zero-friction ratchet wheel blocker, underscoring Hublot’s commitment to precision engineering. On the reverse, an openworked rotor featuring a cut-out “H” reveals the balance, barrel, and going train, framed by the engraved declaration: “Hublot. Design. Manufacture. Nyon”, referencing the Swiss manufacture’s location.

On the outside, the Big Bang Reloaded keeps its familiar form but pushes it further. A newly configured two-part bezel sharpens contrast, while the layered dial adds depth and a more technical feel. The case reads stronger and more defined, with details like the coloured push-piece ring drawing attention to the chronograph function. Each watch is delivered with two interchangeable straps — a textured rubber option and a classic black — both fitted with the One Click system for an easy shift between a sporty and more polished look.

Material innovation remains central to the narrative. The collection marks key milestones, including 20 years of the All Black concept and 15 years of Magic Gold — the world’s first scratch-resistant 18kt gold. Developed over four years in collaboration with EPFL’s Metallurgy Lab, Magic Gold combines durability with a distinctive warm tone. High-tech ceramic models in black, blue, and deep green demonstrate enhanced hardness and colour saturation, while a titanium and black ceramic iteration balances strength with lightweight wearability.

Available through Shemer Jewellers, the Big Bang Reloaded is supported by Hublot’s extended 5+5 warranty programme, offering up to 10 years of coverage.

“As a proud stockist of Hublot, Shemer Jewellers reflects this iconic brand, defined by global reach and a forward-thinking ethos. From its presence on the world stage to its deep-rooted culture of innovation, Hublot continues to shape the modern language of watchmaking,” says Alan Carrington, Managing Director. “Within our space, that same spirit is translated into a considered, curated experience — one that invites clients to engage with the craftsmanship, materials, and technical mastery that define the Big Bang and beyond. A meeting point of global prestige and personal discovery.”

The Big Bang Reloaded does not simply commemorate an icon. It repositions it for what comes next.

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JUly 2026

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