The story behind this Hublot Spirit of Big Bang
The House of Hublot has shaken up the strict codes of fine watchmaking by imposing its innovative concept centred on the fusion of materials. Launched in 2014 to transpose the DNA of the brand's iconic model into a highly demanding tonneau shape, the Spirit of Big Bang collection represents a major architectural and technical challenge. This special edition bears the reference 601.NE.0172.LR.JPN17 and unveils an aesthetic originally designed for the Japanese market. Japan has always favoured pure contrasts and daring limited editions. The real feat of this timepiece, however, lies beneath its sapphire dial. Since Hublot belongs to the same watchmaking group as Zenith, it has been able to integrate a base for the legendary El Primero high-frequency chronograph movement created in 1969. This synergy offers enthusiasts a historic engine renowned for its fearsome precision, encapsulated within a hyper-contemporary chassis.
Case, calibre and strap of this Spirit of Big Bang
The 45 mm tonneau case subtly alternates polished and satin finishes on a grade 5 titanium structure. This highly resistant and lightweight metal fuses with protective white composite resin side inserts to create a singular sculptural silhouette. The transparent sapphire dial reveals the precision mechanics and features circled counters and an openworked date window. The HUB4700 calibre self-winding movement drives the whole masterfully. This skeletonised chronograph beats at an impressive frequency of 5 Hz and guarantees a power reserve of 50 hours. Precision-assembled with 278 components and 31 jewels, it offers a spellbinding bird's-eye view of its complex workings. The watch comes with a luxurious sky-blue alligator leather strap sewn onto a black rubber base, ensuring optimum comfort on the wrist. A second black leather strap with red stitching also accompanies the watch. A sturdy forged titanium and steel folding clasp ensures a secure fit.
Why this Hublot watch
Acquiring this Japanese edition on the second-hand market provides a rare configuration combining the pure brilliance of white resin with the technicality of raw titanium. Discerning collectors particularly appreciate this model for its remarkable ambivalence and clear-cut design. It offers the sporty, edgy allure of an avant-garde design while housing one of the most respected and high-performance chronograph calibres in Swiss watchmaking history. Its immediate availability from The Swiss Collector represents a very fine opportunity to add a singular and accomplished work of architecture to one's personal collection.
Delivered contents and condition
This 2017 timepiece is delivered in its sumptuous complete original case. It includes its voluminous lacquered wooden box with glass porthole, protective over-box, soft card holder and official electronic warranty card. The additional strap completes this luxurious ensemble. The watch is in very good overall condition. The titanium case retains its superb architectural integrity, revealing only tiny micro-scratches on the folding clasp resulting from occasional and very careful wear. Polishing remains perfectly feasible on request to restore it to a totally immaculate appearance.
Guarantee and delivery
The Swiss Collector guarantees the absolute authenticity of this piece with a 24-month guarantee. We accept returns within 10 days according to our conditions. As Switzerland's leading second-hand retailer with the largest network of boutiques, we offer online booking for on-site fitting and collection or fully secure international shipping.
* Very good condition - watch already worn and polished. Slight signs of external wear. Case and bracelet in excellent condition overall.
