The history of this Hublot Big Bang
The Hublot Big Bang was launched in 2005 by a brand founded in 1980 by Carlo Crocco, known for fitting a rubber strap to a gold watch. Jean-Claude Biver, who was then at the helm of Hublot, unveiled this chronograph at Baselworld with a case constructed from layers of steel, ceramic and rubber, held together by visible screws. This construction principle forms the basis of the Art of Fusion, which has become the brand’s guiding principle. The bezel secured by H-shaped screws, the rubber-trimmed side inserts and pushers have since become the model’s visual signature. The 41 mm version retains this architecture in a more compact format than the 44 mm Big Bang. This Big Bang Original Steel Ceramic, reference 341.SB.131.RX, combines a steel case, a black ceramic bezel and a carbon fibre dial.
Case, movement and strap of this Big Bang Original Steel Ceramic
The 41 mm steel case features alternating brushed surfaces and polished chamfers. Its black ceramic bezel is secured by six H-shaped screws, and black inserts adorn the sides, on either side of the crown and the two pushers. The crystal and caseback are made of sapphire, ensuring water resistance to 100 metres. The chequerboard-patterned carbon fibre dial features applied Arabic numerals and hour markers, luminescent hands and a red chronograph seconds hand, the colour of which is echoed on the minute track. The 30-minute counter is positioned at 9 o’clock, the 12-hour counter at 6 o’clock, the small seconds sub-dial at 3 o’clock, and the date appears between 4 o’clock and 5 o’clock. Through the case back, one can see the self-winding HUB4300 calibre and its black open-worked oscillating weight, signed ‘Hublot Genève’. This chronograph, based on the ETA 2894-2 movement, beats at 28,800 vibrations per hour, features 37 jewels and offers a power reserve of 42 hours. The textured black rubber strap fastens with a steel folding clasp bearing the Hublot logo.
Why this Hublot watch
The 41 mm Big Bang is aimed at those who want the design of the 2005 chronograph in a more compact size than the 44 mm version. Its steel and ceramic design, without gold or gemstones, is one of the most understated in the collection, allowing the carbon dial to take centre stage. Its size and rubber strap make it more discreet on the wrist than most current Big Bang models. The HUB4300 calibre is based on the widely used ETA 2894-2 movement, which simplifies servicing by a qualified watchmaker. Finally, this 2006 model retains its original warranty card, which certifies its provenance and date of sale.
Contents and condition
This Big Bang is supplied as a full set, with its black presentation box – the lid of which opens to reveal a round window – its outer box, its international warranty card dated November 2006, its warranty booklet and its Hublot document holder. It is in very good condition, with slight signs of wear on the case. The chronograph has been checked and is in working order, including start, stop and reset functions, as are the three sub-dials.
Warranty and delivery
The Swiss Collector guarantees the authenticity of this watch, which is covered by a 24-month warranty. We accept returns within 10 days in accordance with our terms and conditions. As Switzerland’s leading second-hand retailer, backed by the largest network of shops, we offer online booking for a fitting and in-store collection, or fully secure international delivery.
* Very good condition – watch has been worn. Slight signs of external wear. Case and strap in excellent overall condition.