Hublot Square Bang Unico Black Ceramic
About This Watch
The Hublot Square Bang Unico Black Ceramic applies the brand's signature Black Magic treatment to the newest case format in the Hublot family. The all-black ceramic square case creates perhaps the most visually striking expression of the Square Bang concept — the angular geometry combined with ceramic's deep, light-absorbing black finish produces a watch that looks like it was carved from a single block of obsidian. The square format amplifies the monochromatic impact, with the flat surfaces and sharp angles of the case creating clean, geometric shadows that define the watch's shape on the wrist. Eight H-shaped ceramic bezel screws maintain design continuity with the broader Hublot family while the square arrangement gives them a new visual rhythm. The HUB1280 manufacture flyback chronograph is visible through the skeletonized dial, its metallic tones providing the only contrast against the all-black exterior — a dramatic effect that highlights the mechanical complexity within. Black ceramic's extreme hardness ensures this bold aesthetic will endure indefinitely, resistant to the scratches and marks that would quickly mar a black-coated metal case. At 112 grams, the ceramic Square Bang strikes an ideal weight balance — substantial enough to feel present on the wrist, light enough for comfortable all-day wear. The rubber strap matches the stealth profile perfectly. For collectors who want the Square Bang's provocative geometry in its most dramatic material execution, the Black Ceramic variant delivers the maximum visual impact of the entire collection.
In-Depth Review
Since its 2015 debut, Hublot's Square Bang collection has challenged conventional chronograph design with a bold geometric approach that eschews the circular orthodoxy dominating luxury watchmaking. The 821.CI.0170.RX represents the collection's definitive statement: a 42mm black ceramic case housing the manufacturer's HUB1280 caliber, a capable automatic movement offering 72 hours of power reserve and traditional chronograph functionality with flyback complication. The skeleton dial presents the movement's mechanical architecture with intentional transparency, while eight H-shaped ceramic screws anchor the fixed bezel—design elements that prioritize visual coherence over conventional finishing. At 14.5mm thick, the case maintains surprising proportions for a ceramic chronograph, though the 100-meter water resistance rating appropriately reflects its positioning as a wrist instrument rather than true dive tool.
The Square Bang Unico appeals primarily to collectors seeking distinction from mainstream luxury chronographs and owners comfortable with uncompromising design language. This is a watch that demands confidence; its angular geometry and skeleton dial leave no aesthetic escape routes. The black rubber strap integration feels purposeful rather than casual, suggesting professional application while acknowledging the timepiece's avant-garde posture.
In the 20,000-dollar range, this ceramic chronograph competes directly with references like the Zenith Defy Chronograph and Cartier Santos Dumont Chronograph XL. Where those watches prioritize legibility and classical proportion, Hublot's offering prioritizes conceptual clarity—the skeleton dial and geometric case work as unified statements rather than mere complications layered onto traditional foundations. Current market pricing around 19,000 dollars reflects reasonable depreciation from the 24,200-dollar MSRP, positioning the piece as appropriately valued within its competitive segment.
Specifications
Movement
| Movement Type | Automatic |
|---|---|
| Caliber | HUB1280 |
| Power Reserve | 72 hours |
| Frequency | 28,800 vph |
| Jewels | 38 |
Case
| Case Diameter | 42.0mm |
|---|---|
| Case Thickness | 14.5mm |
| Case Material | Black Ceramic |
| Crystal | Sapphire |
| Bezel | Fixed, 8 H-shaped ceramic screws, square |
| Dial Color | Skeleton |
| Lug Width | 24mm |
| Lug-to-Lug | 49.0mm |
Features
| Water Resistance | 100m / 328ft |
|---|---|
| Bracelet/Strap | Black rubber strap |
| Clasp | Deployant buckle |
| Weight | 112g |
| Complications |