Hublot Enhances Big Bang Original Line with Unico Movement

Hublot marks a significant evolution in its renowned Big Bang Original collection by integrating its sophisticated in-house Unico HUB1280 caliber. Following the success of a limited 20th-anniversary edition last year that first combined the iconic Big Bang design with the Unico movement, this update sees four new regular-production models. These timepieces underscore Hublot's dedication to both aesthetic heritage and technological advancement, offering a compelling blend of classic design and modern watchmaking. The release solidifies the Big Bang's role as a cornerstone of the brand's offerings, setting a new standard for future iterations.

Hublot Big Bang Original Unico: A Deep Dive into the New Collection

In a strategic move to redefine its iconic collection, Hublot, headquartered in Nyon, Switzerland, has unveiled four new Big Bang Original Unico models. These watches, released on January 19, 2026, seamlessly marry the foundational aesthetics of the 2005 original Big Bang with the brand's state-of-the-art Unico HUB1280 manufacture caliber. This integration is a direct response to the positive reception of last year's 20th-anniversary limited edition, which first showcased this powerful combination.

The centerpiece of these new releases is the Unico HUB1280 movement, a testament to Hublot's advanced in-house manufacturing capabilities. Originally introduced in 2010, the Unico movement was the brand's inaugural in-house effort. The current HUB1280 iteration boasts impressive specifications: a flyback chronograph function, an accuracy of -2/+4 seconds per day, and a substantial 72-hour power reserve. Unique to this caliber are five patented innovations, including dual oscillating clutches and a "zero friction" ratchet-wheel blocker, highlighting Hublot's commitment to precision engineering.

These new models feature a robust 43mm diameter case, a sleek 13.2mm thickness, and a practical 100-meter water resistance. They retain the distinctive Big Bang design elements such as rectangular chronograph pushers, a multi-layered case construction, and integrated rubber components on the case and crown. The innovative one-click quick-release mechanism for the rubber strap, with its front-facing button, adds both functionality and a unique design flair. The dials, inspired by woven carbon fiber, showcase a checkered pattern with alternating Arabic numerals and baton indexes. While earlier Unico models often featured open-worked dials to reveal the column wheel, these new solid dials maintain a technical and industrial aesthetic, with sub-dials cleverly intersecting the hour markers.

The collection offers diverse material options, embodying Hublot's "Fusion" philosophy. The options include a full titanium version (ref. 431.NX.1370.RX) priced at €19,300, and a titanium and black ceramic variant (ref. 431.NM.1370.RX), known as "Black Magic," retailing at €20,500. For those seeking a more uniform look, a full black ceramic model (ref. 431.CI.1370.RX) is available for €21,600, featuring a striking matte-blasted finish with polished bevels. The pinnacle of the collection is an 18K King Gold and ceramic version (ref. 431.OM.1380.RX), priced at €37,600. King Gold, a proprietary alloy incorporating platinum, enhances durability and provides a unique reddish hue, further exemplifying Hublot's pioneering use of technical materials.

Reflections on Hublot's Latest Evolution in Luxury Watchmaking

The introduction of the new Hublot Big Bang Original Unico collection signifies more than just an update; it represents a strategic reinforcement of the Big Bang’s enduring legacy and its central role within Hublot's portfolio. By integrating the advanced Unico HUB1280 movement into a design that pays homage to its origins, Hublot is not merely refreshing a product line but cementing the Big Bang's status as a quintessential "hero model." This move suggests a broader vision to establish these core aesthetic and mechanical foundations as benchmarks for future innovations, ensuring the collection remains at the forefront of luxury sports watches. It's an insightful approach, leveraging established appeal while continuously pushing the boundaries of watchmaking technology and material science.