Review of Hublot Spirit of Big Bang Essentials Taupe

In recent decades, the brand Hublot has earned a reputation for producing some of the boldest, most vibrant, and recognizable watches on the market.

This approach evokes mixed reactions among collectors and watch enthusiasts, but the brand consistently occupies its unique niche. Regardless of preferences, many watchmaking manufacturers dream of the same level of attention that Hublot receives. The brand's watches are easily recognizable, and even when forgoing bright color accents in favor of more restrained solutions, as in the Essentials series, they continue to capture attention, perhaps with even greater intrigue. Now, the Spirit of Big Bang model has been updated with the Essentials series featuring two limited editions in taupe color.

Spirit of Big Bang Essentials Taupe 32mm

The first in the pair is a compact model with a 32mm diameter featuring a characteristic tonneau-shaped case. The case is made of satin-finished and polished stainless steel, distinguishing this version from more luxurious models of previous collections, especially considering these are the first 32mm watches without diamonds. However, these are not just utilitarian watches, but rather an expressive accessory with elements of sporty style. The case thickness is only 10.8mm, making the watch compact, while the construction is technically complex and multi-layered, with water resistance reaching 100 meters.

The dial, like other 32mm models from the Spirit of Big Bang, is almost minimalist by Hublot standards: three hands and a small date window at the 6 o'clock position. The surface of the dial is adorned with a sunburst pattern in taupe, which continues on the hour marker ring. Polished hour indices appear to float above the dial, complemented by skeletonized polished hands. This design looks restrained yet functional, providing excellent legibility and a stylish appearance suitable for everyday wear.

Inside the case is the automatic Hublot HUB1120 caliber based on the Sellita SW1000-1. This reliable and proven movement is also used in the Classic Fusion collection, offering a 40-hour power reserve and a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour. The watch comes with two straps: the first is rubber with Nytech fabric inserts in taupe, and the second is a solid rubber strap in the same shade. Both straps feature a stainless steel folding clasp that harmonizes with the case and dial design.

Specifications and Price of Hublot Spirit of Big Bang Essentials Taupe 32mm

Spirit of Big Bang Essentials Taupe 42mm

If a preference is given to larger watches, the Essentials Taupe 42mm model will be the optimal choice. The case in the familiar tonneau shape is made of titanium with satin-finished and polished treatment, giving the watch lightness despite its size — 42mm in diameter and 14.1mm in thickness. This version appears more massive and characteristic of Hublot. Water resistance also amounts to 100 meters, which is quite adequate given the large chronograph buttons on the case.

The Essentials series is designed to emphasize the restraint and elegance of classic Hublot models, yet the taupe dial received a unique finish — the so-called "carbon stamp". This is a checkerboard pattern with alternating squares of fine sandblasting and vertical brushing. Such a design adds dynamism and depth, which would be absent with a simple sunburst pattern like in the smaller model. The hour markers are applied separately, polished, and filled with luminescent material, and metal rings denote the chronograph counters. The watch features unexpected legibility for Hublot, although readability is not always a priority for this brand.

The model is equipped with an automatic chronograph Hublot HUB4700, based on the famous Zenith El Primero 400 caliber. This is a high-frequency column-wheel chronograph with a 50-hour power reserve and a frequency of 36,000 vibrations per hour, providing accuracy to 1/10 of a second. The modern version of the movement is enhanced with silicon components for increased reliability and performance. The watch comes with two straps: a taupe fabric strap with a Velcro fastener and a rubber strap in the same shade with a titanium folding clasp.

Specifications and Price of Hublot Spirit of Big Bang Essentials Taupe 42mm