Hublot Spirit of Big Bang 42mm Black Ceramic
About This Watch
The Hublot Spirit of Big Bang Black Ceramic brings the tonneau collection's most popular material treatment — all-black ceramic — to the barrel-shaped case format. The result is a stealth chronograph that combines the scratch-resistant properties of high-tech ceramic with the distinctive Spirit of Big Bang silhouette. Black ceramic rates approximately 1200 on the Vickers hardness scale, meaning the deep matte black finish will maintain its pristine appearance for years without the scratches and marks that inevitably accumulate on metal watches. The tonneau case shape adds visual drama to the Black Magic treatment, with the elongated form providing sweeping surfaces that showcase ceramic's unique light-absorbing qualities. The HUB4700 automatic chronograph caliber is visible through the skeletonized dial, with the movement's bridges and components providing the only visual contrast against the monochromatic black exterior. Applied luminous indices at the perimeter ensure time-reading remains practical despite the dark palette. At 95 grams, the ceramic construction keeps the weight moderate — lighter than King Gold but heavier than carbon fiber, striking a balance that feels substantial without being burdensome. The rubber strap with textile accent adds textural variety while maintaining the all-black theme. For collectors drawn to the Spirit of Big Bang's tonneau design but preferring a more understated, technical aesthetic over precious metals, the Black Ceramic variant offers durability, modernity, and distinctive style in equal measure.
In-Depth Review
# Hublot Spirit of Big Bang 42mm Black Ceramic
The skeleton dial has become almost clichéd in modern watchmaking, yet Hublot's interpretation on the Spirit of Big Bang 42mm Black Ceramic demonstrates why the house continues to command respect in haute horlogerie. This chronograph wears the designer's signature aesthetic—bold, angular, uncompromising—while maintaining genuine technical substance through its HUB4700 caliber. The 32-jeweled automatic movement delivers a respectable 50-hour power reserve at 28,800 vph, and the skeleton execution reveals honest mechanical complexity rather than superficial transparency. The tonneau case in black ceramic at 42mm strikes a deliberate balance between presence and wearability, while the fixed bezel with H-shaped ceramic screws reinforces the collection's architectural identity. Introduced in 2016, this reference remains current production, a testament to its enduring design language and market relevance.
The Spirit of Big Bang appeals specifically to collectors who reject conventional luxury codes. This is not a watch for those seeking understated elegance; it demands a wearer confident enough to carry bold design language. The 100-meter water resistance accommodates casual water exposure, while the black rubber strap with textile accent suggests an owner equally comfortable in the boardroom or at the marina. The current market price of $13,500—substantially below the $18,900 MSRP—reflects realistic secondary-market dynamics for contemporary Hublot pieces.
Within the forty-plus millimeter sports chronograph segment, the Spirit of Big Bang competes directly with the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Chronograph and the Tag Heuer Carrera Chronograph. Against these rivals, Hublot's ceramic construction and skeleton dial offer greater visual distinctiveness, though both competitors command stronger heritage
Specifications
Movement
| Movement Type | Automatic |
|---|---|
| Caliber | HUB4700 |
| Power Reserve | 50 hours |
| Frequency | 28,800 vph |
| Jewels | 32 |
Case
| Case Diameter | 42.0mm |
|---|---|
| Case Thickness | 14.0mm |
| Case Material | Black Ceramic |
| Crystal | Sapphire |
| Bezel | Fixed, 6 H-shaped ceramic screws, tonneau-shaped |
| Dial Color | Skeleton |
| Lug Width | 24mm |
| Lug-to-Lug | 51.0mm |
Features
| Water Resistance | 100m / 328ft |
|---|---|
| Bracelet/Strap | Black rubber strap with textile accent |
| Clasp | Deployant buckle |
| Weight | 95g |
| Complications |