Nyon, Switzerland, January 21st, 2025 – Renowned for its relentless pursuit of innovative materials, Hublot has long been at the forefront of the watchmaking industry. Its expertise, honed through years of pioneering research at the Metallurgy & Materials laboratory, has enabled the brand to master the complexities of using transparent materials like sapphire crystal in the creation of timepieces. Hublot’s inventive spirit has once again led it to a groundbreaking achievement, as the brand becomes the first and only watchmaker to incorporate SAXEM, a material closely related to sapphire. However, SAXEM offers far more than what sapphire can achieve, presenting unique possibilities in terms of luminosity and vibrant color. In an exciting new development, Hublot now introduces the Big Bang Tourbillon Automatic Green SAXEM, a stunning timepiece that features an eye-catching emerald-green transparent case, housing the self-winding tourbillon movement. This limited edition watch, produced in a mere 18 pieces, is a true testament to Hublot’s continuous push toward artistic and technological excellence.
Having already perfected the art of crafting watch components in sapphire crystal—ranging from the cases to the movement components—Hublot pushed the boundaries even further to create this remarkable watch. While sapphire is available in a variety of colors, there are inherent limitations to the shades and intensities it can achieve. To create the striking emerald-like green transparency for the Big Bang Tourbillon Automatic Green SAXEM, Hublot’s team of engineers, metallurgists, and material experts turned to an unlikely source far beyond the typical watchmaking realm—SAXEM, a material originally developed for satellite technology. While SAXEM shares many of sapphire’s properties, including its renowned hardness and transparency, it differs on a molecular level. Both sapphire and SAXEM are made from aluminum oxide, but SAXEM also incorporates rare earth elements. Furthermore, their structural differences are significant. Sapphire is trigonal (three-sided) in structure, whereas SAXEM is cubic (four-sided). This slight yet crucial distinction allows SAXEM to capture and reflect more intense colors and brilliant light, much like a precious gemstone, giving the material an unprecedented visual depth.
At the heart of the striking green SAXEM case lies Hublot’s MHUB6035 automatic tourbillon manufacture calibre, which has been entirely developed and produced in-house. This movement is a marvel of contemporary watchmaking design. One of the standout features is its 22-karat gold micro-rotor, positioned prominently on the dial side, which ensures smooth and efficient winding, aided by advanced ceramic ball bearings. These elements contribute to a minimum chronometric power reserve of 72 hours. In keeping with Hublot’s commitment to transparency and motion, the design of the movement highlights the kinetic beauty of the micro-rotor at 12 o’clock, while the 60-second tourbillon carriage at 6 o’clock adds a sense of dynamic elegance. The openwork design of the watch is further emphasized by the use of three functional sapphire elements, showcasing the barrel bridge, automatic winding gears bridge, and the tourbillon barrette. For this particular edition of the Big Bang Tourbillon Automatic Green SAXEM, Hublot has opted for a darker-tinted dial, which enhances the overall contrast and adds to the visual intrigue of this exquisite timepiece.
The movement itself, visible through the open dial of the Big Bang Tourbillon Automatic Green SAXEM, is meticulously finished in sophisticated black tones. This creates a dramatic contrast against the vibrant, emerald-green SAXEM case, highlighting the intricate inner workings of the timepiece. The black elements not only add depth and complexity to the design, but they also complement the dark hue of the crown, which harmonizes perfectly with the overall aesthetic of the watch. To further enhance legibility and ensure that the time can be easily read under various lighting conditions, the watch incorporates Hublot’s signature alternating Arabic numerals and baton markers. These markers are specially treated with a layer of bright green Super-LumiNova, which causes them to glow in the dark, offering a functional yet striking contrast against the dark dial. In addition, the hour and minute hands are similarly coated with Super-LumiNova, enhancing visibility even in low-light environments and making this timepiece not only visually stunning but also highly practical.
The watch’s design goes beyond pure functionality, with each element carefully crafted to evoke both modernity and luxury. A mix of sandblasted surfaces, hand-decorated elements, and polished beveling has been applied to various parts of the case and movement components. These finishing techniques serve to highlight the intricate details and craftsmanship behind the timepiece. The sunray-brushed effects further elevate the visual appeal, adding a subtle yet captivating radiance to the surfaces. The combination of these different finishes and the sophisticated interplay of light on the watch creates a dynamic and ever-changing look, ensuring that the Big Bang Tourbillon Automatic Green SAXEM stands out in any setting, whether worn casually or for more formal occasions. This careful attention to detail truly transforms the watch from a mere timekeeping instrument into a remarkable example of haute horlogerie.
As the perfect complement to the striking green SAXEM case, the Big Bang Tourbillon Automatic Green SAXEM comes mounted on a transparent green rubber strap. The strap not only adds an extra layer of visual appeal by mirroring the case’s bold color but also offers a comfortable fit for daily wear. Its soft, flexible nature ensures that the watch can be worn with ease throughout the day, while its unique design keeps the overall aesthetic cohesive and modern. The strap is secured by a black folding clasp, adding a touch of refinement to the overall look and providing a secure and adjustable fit for the wearer. This attention to detail in both the watch’s aesthetic and its functionality makes the Big Bang Tourbillon Automatic Green SAXEM a true standout in Hublot’s collection.
As a limited edition, the Big Bang Tourbillon Automatic Green SAXEM is available in a very exclusive run of just 18 pieces, making it a rare and highly coveted collector’s item. Its exceptional design and the innovative use of SAXEM, a material originally developed for satellite technology, place it at the intersection of cutting-edge material science and the age-old tradition of watchmaking. This watch represents the pinnacle of Hublot’s commitment to innovation, craftsmanship, and exclusivity. The Big Bang Tourbillon Automatic Green SAXEM is available exclusively through Hublot’s boutiques and authorized retailers, offering collectors the opportunity to own a unique and limited piece of horological art.
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