For 2025, Hublot continues its tradition of honoring the Lunar New Year with a stunning, limited-edition timepiece that marries cutting-edge Swiss engineering with cultural symbolism. The Spirit of Big Bang Year of the Snake Limited Edition is a horological tour de force that will captivate collectors and aficionados alike. With only 88 pieces available worldwide, this timepiece is both a work of art and a statement of precision, encapsulating the luxury and expertise that Hublot is renowned for. Crafted to commemorate the Year of the Snake, the Spirit of Big Bang is a striking representation of the brand’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of design, performance, and exclusivity. This is not just a timepiece; it’s a symbol of fortune, power, and resilience—a perfect reflection of the mythical snake in Chinese culture.
An Iconic Case: Design Meets Performance
The Spirit of Big Bang Year of the Snake features a 42mm tonneau-shaped case that is both bold and elegant. Made from a combination of microblasted and polished black ceramic, the case exudes modern sophistication, with contrasting finishes that highlight the meticulous attention to detail. The bezel is engraved with a unique snakeskin texture, a direct reference to the Lunar New Year, bringing an element of cultural significance to the design.
Hublot’s mastery in material science is further exemplified with the use of sapphire crystal with anti-reflective (AR) coating, ensuring superior clarity and protection for the watch. The caseback, also crafted from sapphire crystal, offers an unobstructed view of the movement, allowing the wearer to appreciate the intricate mechanics that lie within.
With a water-resistance rating of 100 meters, the Spirit of Big Bang Year of the Snake is as practical as it is luxurious, ensuring that the wearer can enjoy both form and function in equal measure.
The Movement: Precision at Its Core
At the heart of this extraordinary timepiece is the Hublot Calibre HUB4700, an automatic chronograph movement based on the legendary Zenith El Primero. Revered for its precision and performance, the HUB4700 beats at an impressive 36,000 vibrations per hour, offering ultra-smooth chronograph functionality and exceptional timekeeping accuracy.
With 278 components and 31 jewels, this movement is a true work of engineering, delivering both reliability and sophistication. The Spirit of Big Bang Year of the Snake boasts a 50-hour power reserve, ensuring that the watch continues to perform flawlessly even when not worn for extended periods. Its chronograph feature adds versatility to the timepiece, making it ideal for a wide range of occasions, whether you’re timing an event or simply admiring its flawless movement.
The Dial: A Window Into Culture and Craftsmanship
The dial of the Spirit of Big Bang Year of the Snake is a true reflection of Hublot’s expertise in both design and craftsmanship. The openworked dial offers a fascinating view into the mechanical heart of the watch, with a gold-plated snake applique at 12 o’clock symbolizing the Year of the Snake. The intricacy of the snake motif adds a layer of luxury and cultural significance, while also maintaining Hublot’s bold design language.
Gold-toned hands and applied markers filled with black SuperLuminova (SLN) ensure optimal legibility, even in low-light conditions. This dial is not just functional; it’s an artwork in motion, beautifully balancing technical performance with aesthetic allure.
The Strap: Luxury and Comfort Combined
A watch of this caliber deserves a strap that complements its level of sophistication. The Spirit of Big Bang Year of the Snake features a black rubber strap, embossed with a snakeskin texture that ties in perfectly with the overall design. The rubber ensures comfort and flexibility, while its durability makes it ideal for daily wear.
The strap is secured with a black ceramic and black-plated titanium deployant buckle, offering both elegance and practicality. This combination of materials provides a refined touch to the watch, ensuring that it remains as functional as it is fashionable.
Exclusivity and Value
With only 88 pieces being produced, the Spirit of Big Bang Year of the Snake is an exceptionally rare and exclusive release. The watch is a true collector’s piece, combining Hublot’s technical prowess with a rich cultural narrative that adds immense value. The reference number for this model is 642.CI.0180.RX.CNY25.
Priced at EUR 36,500, the Spirit of Big Bang Year of the Snake represents an investment in both luxury and craftsmanship. The rarity of the piece, along with its impeccable design and mechanics, ensures its place as a prized addition to any discerning collector’s portfolio.
A Timepiece That Transcends Time
The Spirit of Big Bang Year of the Snake Limited Edition is not just a watch—it’s an experience, a testament to Hublot’s unwavering commitment to creating horological masterpieces. With its technical excellence, cultural resonance, and exceptional craftsmanship, this timepiece perfectly encapsulates the brand’s ethos: “Art of Fusion.” For the fortunate few who are able to acquire one of the 88 pieces, the Spirit of Big Bang Year of the Snake will undoubtedly stand as a timeless symbol of luxury, precision, and exclusivity.
Written by: Aleksandra Rutkowska
Published: Thursday, 9th January 2025