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Hublot Unveils Spirit of Big Bang Impact Series with High-Tech Materials

May 08, 2026, 8:38 AM

Hublot has once again pushed the boundaries of horological innovation with the release of its new 'Spirit of Big Bang Impact' series at Watches & Wonders 2026. This collection revives and reinterprets the brand's 'Impact' theme, originally introduced a decade ago, by integrating cutting-edge materials and a visually striking fragmented aesthetic. The three limited-edition timepieces within this series demonstrate Hublot's continued mastery in material science and avant-garde design, offering a compelling blend of technology and luxury.

Hublot's Latest 'Spirit of Big Bang Impact' Unveiled at Watches & Wonders 2026

In May 2026, at the prestigious Watches & Wonders event, Hublot proudly unveiled its latest 'Spirit of Big Bang Impact' collection, marking a significant evolution in its renowned Impact series. Departing from the classic Big Bang silhouette, these new models adopt the brand's distinctive tonneau-shaped case, drawing inspiration from the 2017 Spirit of Big Bang Moonphase. This choice allows for a uniquely harmonious integration of the fragmented dial design, which is central to the 'Impact' concept.

The collection introduces three distinct limited editions. The initial offering is the 'Spirit of Big Bang Impact All Black' (ref. 647.CX.0140.RX.IMP26), a limited edition of 100 pieces. It features a sophisticated polished and micro-blasted black ceramic case, complemented by a dial adorned with mirror-polished black appliqués. This model captures the shattered motif on its bezel, creating a powerful visual statement.

Next, the 'Spirit of Big Bang Impact Sapphire' (ref. 647.JX.0106.RW.IMP26), limited to just 30 examples, boasts a transparent sapphire case. Its dial is a mesmerizing composition of polished rhodium and crystallized osmium appliqués. Osmium, the rarest metal on Earth, lends a pale blue hue and brilliant sparkle, enhancing the fragmented design. In this sapphire variant, the shattered effect is primarily concentrated on the dial, offering a more ethereal interpretation.

The most exclusive piece in the trio is the 'Hublot Spirit of Big Bang Impact Sapphire Jewelry' (ref. 647.JX.9000.RW.1904.IMP26), with only 20 examples available. This model elevates luxury by incorporating 54 fancy-cut diamonds on its sapphire bezel and an additional 91 on the dial, meticulously set to complete the shattered appearance. This marks a pioneering effort by Hublot to set diamonds into sapphire, a challenging feat achieved by securing each unique diamond within polished gold channels in laser-cut mounts, given sapphire's rigid nature.

All three timepieces share a 42mm diameter. The black ceramic model measures 14.6mm in thickness with 100 meters of water resistance, while the sapphire versions are slightly thicker at 15.5mm, offering 50 meters of water resistance. Powering these exquisite watches is the Caliber HUB1770 automatic movement, a reliable mechanism based on Zenith's architecture, providing a 50-hour power reserve. Each watch is fitted with Hublot's convenient One-Click strap-changing system, featuring rubber straps with deployant clasps. Prices for this exclusive series range from $33,700 USD for the ceramic model, to $114,500 USD for the sapphire variant, and a remarkable $543,000 USD for the diamond-set sapphire version.

The introduction of the 'Spirit of Big Bang Impact' series underscores Hublot's audacious approach to watchmaking, seamlessly blending artistic vision with advanced material science. While some purists may debate the use of external movements at such price points, the undeniable allure lies in the collection's groundbreaking design and the innovative application of materials like crystallized osmium and diamond-studded sapphire. These timepieces are not merely instruments for telling time; they are wearable sculptures, pushing the boundaries of what is aesthetically and technically possible in haute horlogerie. This series serves as a powerful reminder that true luxury often transcends traditional definitions, embracing innovation and daring creativity.

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