Hublot Big Bang MP-11 14 Blue Sapphire

Hublot’s Big Bang MP-11 14 Blue Sapphire is a luxe step forward as the brand expands its range of innovative timepieces with a new sapphire colour—a vibrant and translucent water blue. This addition marks a significant first for Hublot’s Manufacture Piece collection, introducing a fresh hue to its already extensive palette of sapphire tones.

Since its debut at Baselworld 2018, the MP-11 has consistently captivated the watchmaking world with its groundbreaking design and technological prowess. Now, six years later, the watch remains a symbol of uniqueness and innovation.

The MP-11 sets a remarkable standard with its seven-barrel configuration and a 14-day power reserve. The technical sophistication of this model is exceptional; to maintain a standard case height of 10.9 mm, the seven barrels are arranged vertically and coaxially, positioned at the front of the movement rather than within its thickness. This arrangement necessitates a 90° transmission system to transfer the 336-hour power reserve to the movement, which employs a helical worm gear, operating on the principle of an endless screw. This innovative gear is prominently visible between 9 and 10 o’clock on the dial.

In order to achieve visual and mechanical harmony, the balance is strategically placed at 2 o’clock, with its rate displayed at 4 o’clock. The Hublot HUB9011 calibre, comprising 270 components, features a patented index-assembly system and a silicon escapement that shields the movement from electromagnetic and thermal interference.

The power reserve is indicated by a slowly rotating disc, making one complete rotation every two weeks, located directly at the forefront of the seven aligned barrels. This positioning, combined with the shape of the sapphire crystal, enhances the visibility of this key feature, magnifying the iconic barrels. The MP-11 can be manually wound using its large, fluted crown, which features a worm screw-type relief echoing the helical gear, or by an electric Torx stylus. This distinctive architectural design firmly establishes it as a true “Manufacture Piece” within Hublot’s MP collection.

This latest shade is the product of a newly developed chemical formula and a unique transparency index, maintaining all the standard properties of sapphire such as resistance to scratches and impacts. The polishing of this material is meticulously executed, often by hand, requiring adherence to stringent specifications. This process involved several years of development and testing, including trials of accelerated ageing to ensure outstanding water resistance and durability. The final product embodies near perfection, reflecting the spirit of Hublot’s MP series.