From the first encounter between gold and rubber in 1980, through the Big Bang revolution in 2005, to the affirmation of mechanical independence with the Unico calibre in 2010, Hublot has built its identity by constantly challenging the conventions of high watchmaking. Today, to mark the twentieth anniversary of its most recognisable icon, the manufacture unveils at Watches and Wonders Geneva the new Hublot Big Bang Reloaded.
This is not a simple update, but a true evolution of the Big Bang, unfolded across five permanent models and two limited editions. The 44 mm case, iconic materials, and a new interpretation of the flyback chronograph mark a decisive step towards a more technical, more readable, and more expressive phase. At the centre of it all, once again, is the Unico calibre—now more visible than ever.
HUB1280 UNICO CALIBRE: THE HEART OF THE BIG BANG RELOADED
Introduced in 2010, the Unico calibre represents a milestone for Hublot. Today, in its HUB1280 evolution, it confirms its position as one of the most advanced in-house automatic flyback chronographs of its generation, with a 72-hour power reserve and a fully integrated architecture.
In the Big Bang Reloaded, the movement is not merely functional—it becomes a visual protagonist. The column wheelat 6 o’clock and the double horizontal clutch system at 8 o’clock make the chronograph’s operation immediately readable, turning mechanics into an aesthetic language.
The calibre integrates five patented innovations: a play-compensation system, an anti-vibration system, a zero-friction blocking mechanism, a fine rate-adjustment system, and a shock-resistant time-setting system. All are rigorously tested under Hublot’s Chronofiable protocol, ensuring optimal performance, reliability, and precision.
The architecture is further enhanced by contrasts in colour, a redesigned chronograph counter at 3 o’clock, a repositioned date display between 4 and 5 o’clock, and a new central hand. On the caseback, the skeletonised rotorshaped as an “H” reveals the balance, barrel, and gear train, reinforcing the movement’s technical depth.
THE NEW HUBLOT BIG BANG RELOADED: MATERIALS, DESIGN AND IDENTITY
The new Hublot Big Bang Reloaded expresses the Art of Fusion philosophy through five references that combine materials, research, and identity.
The Magic Gold version (€ 43,600) celebrates the world’s first scratch-resistant 18K gold, developed in-house and recognisable by its distinctive bronze tone—a material born from years of research and now a symbol of Hublot’s innovative capability.
The high-tech ceramic versions – All Black, Blue Ceramic, and Dark Green Ceramic (all € 24,700) – highlight mastery in coloured ceramic, offering superior resistance compared to traditional standards. In particular, the All Black concept celebrates 20 years of “invisible visibility”.
The Titanium Ceramic version (€ 23,500) combines aerospace-grade titanium with black ceramic, achieving a balance between lightness and robustness that recalls the aesthetic of the first Big Bang Unico.
From a design perspective, the 44 mm case evolves with a more dynamic structure, defined by a two-part bezel and a multi-layered skeleton dial that amplifies depth and contrast. The chronograph becomes a defining element: a coloured ring on the pusher at 4 o’clock, a redesigned counter at 3 o’clock, the flyback inscription, and the new date position enhance both legibility and visual impact.
Each model comes with two interchangeable straps: one in fabric-effect rubber with H-shaped stitching and one in classic black rubber, both equipped with a deployant clasp and the One Click system, allowing the style to be changed in seconds.
LIMITED EDITIONS: KYLIAN MBAPPÉ AND USAIN BOLT
Alongside the permanent collection, Hublot introduces two limited editions of 200 pieces each, dedicated to two global icons: Kylian Mbappé and Usain Bolt.
The Big Bang Reloaded Kylian Mbappé (€ 29,400) translates the athlete’s mindset into design. Crafted in white ceramic and 18K King Gold, it features the mantra “Trust Yourself” engraved on the bezel. The gold number 10references his on-field identity, while the skeleton dial with anthracite and white details delivers a contemporary and assertive aesthetic. Two straps complete the experience: a gold-toned fabric strap with Velcro and a white and black rubber strap with the KM logo.
The Big Bang Reloaded Usain Bolt (€ 29,400) is a tribute to speed. Crafted in black ceramic and carbon with yellow gold details, it incorporates direct references—between 6 and 8 o’clock—to the 100-metre world record (9.58 seconds) set in 2009. The lightning-shaped chronograph hand, the mantra “Anything is Possible, Don’t Think Limits” engraved on the bezel, and a reference to Jamaican soil on the caseback transform this watch into a personal narrative. The straps – one gold-yellow fabric and one camouflage rubber – reinforce the connection to the athlete’s origins and identity.
THE FUTURE OF THE BIG BANG IS ALREADY HERE
With the new Hublot Big Bang Reloaded, the manufacture does not simply celebrate an anniversary – it once again redefines its own language. More visible, more technical, more radical: the Big Bang enters a new phase, where mechanics, design, and materialsmerge in an even more conscious way.
From 1980 with the Art of Fusion, to 2005 with the Big Bang, and now to 2026 with this new evolution, the message remains unchanged: do not follow the rules – rewrite them. And perhaps this is precisely what still makes the Big Bang one of the most recognisable watches of our time.
By Jacopo Giudici