Get ready to witness a game-changer in the world of luxury watches: Hublot and Samuel Ross are back with their fourth collaboration, and this time, it’s more accessible than ever. But here's where it gets controversial—can a high-end brand truly democratize luxury without losing its exclusivity? Let’s dive in.
Following the success of three Big Bang Tourbillon editions, Hublot and British designer Samuel Ross have teamed up once again, this time introducing the Big Bang Unico SR_A. Unlike its six-figure predecessors, this release targets a broader audience with a significantly lower price point, all while retaining Ross’s signature design flair. And this is the part most people miss—it’s not just about the price; it’s about bringing avant-garde design to a wider market.
Earlier this year, Hublot unveiled a slew of new releases, including fresh dial colors for the Classic Fusion and Big Bang Unico lines. The brand also celebrated tennis legend Novak Djokovic with the Big Bang Tourbillon Novak Djokovic GOAT Edition, featuring a stunning sapphire and metal caliber. However, the real star of the show is the Big Bang Unico SRA. Since 2022, Ross has been making waves with his Big Bang Tourbillon SRA series, blending bold aesthetics with Hublot’s technical prowess.
During a 2024 chat with Ross in Miami, I asked if he’d ever consider translating his high-concept designs into more accessible pieces. His response was coy, but the wheels were clearly in motion. Now, the Big Bang Unico SR_A is here, scaling down Ross’s iconic elongated and layered silhouette into a 42mm black ceramic case with a thickness of 14.5mm. While the honeycomb motif from the tourbillon series is absent from the case, it makes a striking return on the structured rubber strap, ensuring the design DNA remains intact.
The watch features a skeletonized dial, showcasing the in-house HUB1280 caliber—a flyback chronograph with a silicon escapement. Unlike the previous tourbillon models, this one skips the sapphire elements and bold color accents, opting for a more understated yet technically impressive look. The hour markers echo Hublot’s signature screw holes, and a skeletonized date track adds a touch of contrast. Priced at $31,200 and limited to 200 pieces, this piece strikes a balance between exclusivity and accessibility.
But here’s the bold question: Is this a step toward making luxury more inclusive, or does it dilute Hublot’s elite status? Personally, I’m thrilled to see Ross’s vision reach a wider audience. The Unico movement pairs perfectly with the unconventional case design, creating a cohesive and subtly refined look compared to the tourbillons. The smaller dimensions will undoubtedly appeal to more customers, though the elongated lugs might still wear broader than expected—definitely a watch to try on in person.
Interestingly, the vibrant color palette of the previous SR_A designs is notably absent here. While I believe color would have elevated this piece, the stripped-back aesthetic feels like a deliberate statement from Ross. This isn’t the last we’ll see of this design language, and I’m eager to see how it evolves.
The Basics
- Brand: Hublot
- Model: Big Bang Unico SR_A
- Reference Number: 441.CX.1140.RX.SRA26
- Diameter: 42mm
- Thickness: 14.5mm
- Case Material: Black ceramic with black-plated titanium accents
- Dial Color: Matte black (skeletonized)
- Indexes: Applied
- Lume: TBD
- Water Resistance: 100 meters
- Strap/Bracelet: Black structured honeycomb rubber strap with ceramic and titanium deployant clasp
The Movement
- Caliber: HUB 1280 UNICO Manufacture Caliber
- Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, date, flyback chronograph
- Power Reserve: 72 hours
- Winding: Automatic
- Frequency: 28,800 VpH
- Jewels: 43
- Additional Details: Swiss silicon lever escapement
Pricing & Availability
- Price: $31,200
- Availability: Now
- Limited Edition: 200 pieces
For more details, visit Hublot’s official website.
Now, I want to hear from you: Do you think luxury brands should prioritize accessibility, or should they maintain their exclusivity? Let’s debate in the comments!
