Hublot Big Bang Integral Ceramic – The Big Three
By Amanda Evans | 2 minute read
Defined by innovation and consistently ahead of the curve, Swiss watchmaker Hublot is guided by a philosophy to be “First, Different and Unique”. The launch of the iconic and award-winning Big Bang in 2005 became a platform for pioneering new collections to include Classic Fusion and Spirit of Big Bang. Fully committed to Haute Horlogerie and the creation of cutting-edge materials and Manufacture movements, Hublot now presents its latest innovation – the Big Bang Unico Integral Ceramic.
The Big Bang Integral follows the black ceramic with three new colours, white, navy blue or grey ceramic. This signature material from Hublot has built in scratch-resistance and an incredible durability. Ceramic benefits from many desirable features which include its robust yet almost weightless properties. Nearly three times harder than steel and 30% lighter, it also benefits from low thermal conductivity, hypoallergenic properties, and superb comfort against the skin. Despite the challenges in machining presented by this material, Hublot has recognised the value of its properties and created a superb timepiece from which the case, bezel, case-back and bracelet are all manufactured from ceramic. The bezel lugs are manufactured from black, dark blue or grey composite and rubber elements on the crown and pushers further enhance comfort.
The seamless architecture of the Big Bang Integral confirms its undivided status, along with its single-colour and single-material aesthetics. Unlike any other Big Bang models, it has a fully integrated bracelet from which the first link is fused with the 42mm case. This extraordinary use of ceramic is a celebrated first in the 15-year history of the Big Bang. Its aesthetic codes are emblematic of the Big Bang with three links, one central and two lateral, polished, and satin-finished surfaces and the chamfering of the links creating the same depth of contrast that can be seen between the case and bezel lug.
Powered by an updated version of the Unico manufacture movement, the Unico HUB1242, the Big Bang Integral not only incorporates superb aesthetics, but also enhanced technology. Modifications of the Unico include a more delicate automatic winding system with 1.3mm movement and four new patented innovations that include an oscillating seconds clutch, chronograph friction system with ball-bearing adjustment, ratchet retaining system with unidirectional gears and index-assembly fine adjustment system. This reincarnation of the Unico has been redesigned for easier assembly and legibility of functions and complements the inspired vision that is the Big Bang Integral.
