Hublot takes ceramic to the next level with the release of the limited-edition Big Bang Integral Minute Repeater Ceramic timepiece.
A few crowns, sometimes bezels, possibly a pusher. Until now, other than a few anecdotal components, ceramic has never been mastered sufficiently to be fully used in a Minute Repeater. However, Hublot has turned a page as the first watchmaker in the world to design, manufacture and assemble a Cathedral Minute Tourbillon Repeater entirely in ceramic.
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This is a colossal challenge that Hublot has just pulled off. Ceramic is an extremely hard material both to machine and finish. The colouring of the ceramic requires exceptional precision in firing to obtain a perfectly homogeneous result. Until now, it has never been possible to guarantee the water resistance of the case, despite the movable trigger piece which operates the Minute Repeater. Nor, for that matter, has it been possible to obtain a clear and powerful sound within a 100% ceramic case; achieving this is a world first.
It took some 20 years of mastering ceramic to achieve such a result. The process was difficult because the challenges were all closely tied: the monochrome ceramic is very complex to machine, which complicates the design of the case, which in turn can compromise water resistance, and the guarantee of a pure and crystal-clear sound. All the parameters are interlinked. A single mistake, the slightest approximation, and you have to start again from scratch.
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The Big Bang Integral Minute Repeater Ceramic is not therefore a triumph over a material, but rather a declaration of complete interdisciplinary watchmaking mastery, making it a fantastic addition to any watch collection.
Hublot presents the new additions to the Big Bang Integral Ceramic family in just 36 pieces, each measuring 43mm in diameter, 18 pieces in black ceramic (a first for the collection) and 18 in white ceramic.
It is also the first time that this collection includes a tourbillon, entirely crafted in house. It is housed in a MHUB801 calibre, with manual winding, providing 80 hours of power reserve.
A superlative timepiece, the Big Bang Integral Minute Repeater Ceramic is equally a technical and decorative complication. These two aspects have been merged to create an authentic Grande Complication that is intended for discerning collectors. The new edition will be available exclusively in Japan.
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