ONE-OF-A-KIND TOUCH
For four years now, LVMH Group’s two firms have been fixing us dates with creations infused with their respective savoir-faire. The latest release flaunts a leather bezel. A first-ever!
Following on from the Classic Fusion models imagined hand-in-hand with Berluti, Hublot renews its collaboration with the Parisian luxury label and its incomparable Venezia leather craftsmanship. As this year comes to a close, the Big Bang Unico Berluti Cold Brown wows us with the famous patina that’s inextricably-linked to the production of this firm founded by the eponymous shoemaker. The noble material boasting a glacé finish is, of course, still showcased on the dial, embraced between two crystals, but for the first time ever also adorn the bezel. This two-part bezel, featuring a ceramic base, hosts adhesive resin used to position the 1 mm-slim leather strip in place. The ensemble is then screwed to the case. The hues of this element, just like those of the strap, will change over time to gift the watch with unique personality.
The HUB1242 caliber beats inside the 45 mm-diameter black ceramic case. This self-winding motor delivers a power reserve of at least 3 days. It breathes life into the hour and minute hands which hover over an hour chapter comprising embossed indexes. This chronograph movement, equipped with flyback function, measures short-cycle time which is read by a central direct-drive and a totalizer set at 3 o’clock. Incidentally, it also drives a date.
Each example of this limited series of just 100 pieces is proposed in its co-signed presentation case and comes complete with a shoehorn key ring and travel pouch.
Price: CHF24,900 www.hublot.com
By Dan Diaconu