20 Years of Big Bang: The Visual and Philosophical Code of Hublot

Hublot marked the 20th anniversary of its iconic Big Bang collection at Dubai Watch Week — a fitting stage for a model that has come to define modern watchmaking. Since its debut in 2005, Big Bang has challenged conventions, reshaping the language of contemporary luxury and setting a bold new direction for the industry. What began as an audacious experiment has evolved into the very essence of Hublot, its visual and philosophical code, built on the concept of fusion: the seamless interplay of tradition, innovation, and avant-garde design.

Today, Hublot operates as a fully integrated manufacture in Nyon, where every aspect of watchmaking from movement development to material innovation and haute horlogerie craftsmanship exists under one roof. It is here that signature calibers such as Unico, Meca-10, and Tourbillon are conceived, and where pioneering materials, from colored ceramics to sapphire and advanced composites, become part of the brand’s DNA.

On the occasion of the anniversary, we spoke with Managing Director David Tedeschi about the enduring significance of Big Bang, the importance of key markets, long-term partnerships, and the future of the industry.

“Big Bang is celebrating its 20th anniversary, and today it is truly synonymous with Hublot,” Tedeschi says. “When it was unveiled at Baselworld in 2005, it became the first icon of the 21st century. Two decades later, it is no longer just a watch, it is a statement.”

Dubai Watch Week, he notes, provided the perfect setting for such a milestone. “It allows us to present our savoir-faire not only to regional partners but to a global audience. In just a few days, I’ve met with partners from across the world from the Middle East to Latin America. The scale of the event is remarkable, and we are proud to be part of it.”

The Middle East remains one of Hublot’s most important and stable markets, with the UAE playing a central role. The brand’s long-standing partnership with Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons has been instrumental in establishing its regional presence.

“We have three mono-brand boutiques in key destinations — Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, and The Galleria in Abu Dhabi — as well as more than ten multi-brand points of sale,” Tedeschi explains. “But the growth potential is still significant, with major developments across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Ras Al Khaimah opening new opportunities. I deliberately call Seddiqi a partner — their contribution to Hublot’s success in the region has been fundamental.”

Equally central to the brand’s identity is its deep-rooted connection to football. While Hublot will not serve as the official timekeeper for the 2026 World Cup, the sport remains a powerful pillar of its global communication strategy.

“We were the official timekeeper for four consecutive World Cups, from 2010 to 2022, and that legacy continues,” says Tedeschi. “We collaborate with some of the most influential figures in the sport — including Kylian Mbappé — and remain the official timekeeper of the Argentina national team. We’ve also renewed our partnership with the Mexican Football Federation. Football continues to be a powerful platform for us.”

Looking ahead, Hublot is entering a new phase under CEO Julien Tornare, with a clear and focused vision for the brand’s evolution.

“The Big Bang anniversary is just one part of a much broader strategy,” Tedeschi notes. “In the coming years, through to 2027, our collections will evolve with a stronger emphasis on refinement, technological innovation, and reinforcing our leadership in contemporary high watchmaking.”

A key area of growth is women’s watches, particularly in the Middle East, where demand is rapidly increasing.

“Women’s models already account for nearly 50% of our regional sales, and in markets like Qatar, more than 70%,” he says. “We are moving beyond simply adapting men’s designs and are developing fully-fledged women’s collections. You will soon see some exciting new launches in this space.”

As for the broader industry, Tedeschi sees a clear shift in consumer expectations.

“The market in 2025 has become more mature and selective. Clients are no longer driven by logos or status alone – they are looking for authenticity, innovation, and emotional connection,” he explains. “This trend will only intensify in 2026, with greater emphasis on creativity, craftsmanship, new materials, and personalization. Technology will enhance the experience, but it will never replace human expertise.”

For Hublot, this transformation feels entirely natural.

“Fusion has always been at the heart of what we do – the fusion of materials, cultures, and ideas,” Tedeschi concludes. “Today, the industry is moving in the direction we have been shaping for more than twenty years. And we will continue to push those boundaries even further.”