hublot company history | Hublot big bang history

Hublot, a name synonymous with audacious innovation and the "Art of Fusion," stands as a prominent figure in the landscape of Swiss watchmaking. Born from the vision of Carlo Crocco in 1980, this brand has redefined luxury horology by seamlessly blending unconventional materials and pioneering designs. From its inception to its present-day status as a global powerhouse, Hublot's journey is a testament to the power of challenging conventions and embracing the future while honoring Swiss watchmaking excellence.

What is Hublot Known For? The Art of Fusion

At its core, Hublot is celebrated for its "Art of Fusion" philosophy. This guiding principle transcends mere aesthetics; it's a commitment to harmoniously combining seemingly disparate materials to create timepieces that are both visually striking and technically superior. This philosophy extends beyond materials, encompassing the fusion of tradition and innovation, craftsmanship and technology, and classic design with avant-garde concepts.

Hublot's innovative use of materials is a key differentiator. The brand has mastered the art of working with materials rarely seen in traditional watchmaking, including:

* Rubber: Famously, Hublot was one of the first luxury watch brands to embrace rubber straps, revolutionizing the industry and offering a comfortable, sporty alternative to traditional leather or metal bracelets.

* Carbon Fiber: Lightweight and incredibly strong, carbon fiber is used extensively in Hublot cases, bezels, and movements, contributing to both the aesthetics and the performance of the watches.

* Ceramic: Hublot has pushed the boundaries of ceramic technology, developing brightly colored and scratch-resistant ceramic cases that are both durable and visually stunning.

* King Gold: A proprietary blend of gold, copper, and platinum, King Gold offers a richer hue and increased durability compared to traditional gold alloys.

* Magic Gold: A patented fusion of gold and ceramic, Magic Gold is virtually scratch-proof, making it an ideal material for watch cases that can withstand daily wear.

* Sapphire: Hublot has mastered the art of crafting entire watch cases from sapphire crystal, offering unparalleled transparency and showcasing the intricate movements within.

Beyond materials, Hublot is also known for its bold designs and innovative complications. The brand frequently collaborates with artists, athletes, and other prominent figures to create limited-edition timepieces that reflect their unique personalities and passions. These collaborations often result in groundbreaking designs and innovative features, further solidifying Hublot's reputation as a pioneer in the world of luxury watches.

Where Are Hublot Watches Made? The Heart of Swiss Watchmaking

Hublot watches are proudly manufactured in Switzerland, the undisputed heart of the watchmaking industry. The brand's primary manufacturing facility is located in Nyon, on the shores of Lake Geneva. This state-of-the-art facility houses all aspects of watch production, from research and development to design, manufacturing, assembly, and quality control.

Hublot's commitment to Swiss watchmaking excellence is evident in every aspect of its operations. The brand employs highly skilled watchmakers, engineers, and designers who are dedicated to crafting timepieces of the highest quality. The manufacturing process combines traditional techniques with cutting-edge technology, ensuring that each Hublot watch meets the brand's exacting standards.

The location in Nyon provides access to a rich heritage of watchmaking expertise and a network of skilled artisans and suppliers. Hublot leverages this local talent and infrastructure to source the finest components and materials, ensuring the quality and reliability of its watches. The "Swiss Made" designation on a Hublot watch is a symbol of quality, precision, and craftsmanship.

Hublot Watch History: From Rubber Beginnings to Global Recognition

The Hublot story began in 1980 when Carlo Crocco, a member of the Italian Binda Group (known for Breil watches), ventured out on his own to create a brand that challenged the status quo. He envisioned a luxury watch that was both elegant and sporty, sophisticated and unconventional.

Crocco's initial creation, the Hublot watch, was a revolutionary timepiece featuring a gold case and a rubber strap. This combination was unheard of at the time, as rubber was typically associated with more utilitarian watches. The rubber strap, however, was meticulously crafted and vulcanized to achieve exceptional durability and comfort. The design was inspired by a ship’s porthole ("hublot" in French), hence the name of the brand.

While the initial reaction from the established watchmaking community was skeptical, the Hublot watch quickly gained popularity among a discerning clientele who appreciated its unique aesthetic and comfortable wearability. The watch's minimalist dial, featuring simple gold markers and hands, further contributed to its understated elegance.

For many years Hublot focused on this design, refining the rubber strap and exploring different case materials. The brand built a solid reputation for quality and innovation, attracting a loyal following of customers who were drawn to its distinctive style.

Hublot Big Bang History: The Game Changer

The true turning point in Hublot's history came in 2004 when Jean-Claude Biver, a legendary figure in the watch industry, took over as CEO. Biver, known for his remarkable turnaround of Blancpain and Omega, brought a renewed sense of energy and vision to Hublot.