Fifteen years after the introduction of the Big Bang, Hublot introduced the Big Bang Integral, adding a one-piece bracelet model to the line. The Integral debuted in the following three varieties: titanium, as described in this article; and gold king; and all-black ceramic. Although up to now, the Big Bang has not been attached exclusively to a strap (see this bracelet model from a few years ago), we live in an age of proliferation of integrated bracelets. In fact, I’m surprised that it took Hublot this long to reach a “reverse offshore” agreement with Big Bang. Fortunately, Hublot has not only added an integrated bracelet to the 42mm Big Bang case (arguably the most wearable case, by the way), but has also refreshed and redesigned the case.
The result is a good-looking, reasonably sized watch from a collection that has long attracted a large number of luxury sports watch buyers.
The interior of the UNICO movement is higher praised than many. I encourage you to read our David Bredan’s review of the 42mm Big Bang strap version for more background information and insight. To make a long story short, this is certainly a technically impressive movement, and many of my peers are ashamed of it. Brief stats on the HUB1280 UNICO column-wheel chronograph movement include a three-day power reserve, a modular escapement, a redesigned oscillating double clutch, and a flyback function.
In my opinion, Hublot has made a few changes to the 42mm Big Bang case and dial, which is a significant improvement overall. One change to the dial displays Arabic numerals as numbers with a simple index, which I absolutely love. In this case, the pushers have been changed back to the original style from the original 2005 model. In fact, Hublot notes that these rectangular pushers served as the inspiration for the bracelet’s design by chamfering, tilting, and alternating polished and satin finishes.
The sandwich-style case is water-resistant to 100M, but with slight modifications, replacing the resin composite with a complete titanium (or King Gold or ceramic) construction. Black composite resin is used for the bezel portion, and rubber is used around the crown. This modification to the case makes the design somewhat sober, while the sparse use of black resin composite and rubber accentuates the aesthetic qualities without being excessive.