Brand Guides / Hublot / Hublot Big Bang
Reviewed by the Fine Watch Guide team · October 2026
The Big Bang, launched in 2005, turned Hublot's mixed-materials idea into a large, layered chronograph and remains the watch most people picture when they hear the name.
The Big Bang arrived in 2005, soon after Jean-Claude Biver took over Hublot, and its sandwich case of stacked materials made it one of the defining sports watches of its decade. Owning one means looking after a case with a lot of parts. The movement matters, but on a Big Bang the bezel, inserts and strap are often where the money goes.
A Big Bang case is built in layers, typically a bezel held by visible screws over composite or rubber elements and a caseband, and every one of those joints needs a seal. A full service should cover the movement, every gasket in that stack, and a pressure test at the end. On ceramic and carbon versions, case components that are scratched or chipped are generally replaced rather than refinished, so a quote that promises to polish them deserves a follow-up question.
The movement depends on the reference. Many Big Bangs use chronograph calibers based on established Swiss designs, which experienced independents service routinely, while later models built around Hublot's in-house Unico movement lean toward the brand's own service network for parts. Check your reference before choosing where to send it.
The rubber strap is the part owners replace most. Sun, heat, sunscreen and pool chemicals all shorten its life, and a cracked strap near the lugs is a common sight on watches that have been worn hard. Recent Big Bangs use a quick-change strap system, which makes swapping simple, but genuine straps are specific to the case size and generation, so confirm the exact reference before ordering.
Bezel screws are worth a close look on any Big Bang. Rounded or scratched screw heads usually mean someone opened the case without the right tools, and that can point to a service history nobody wrote down. It's a small detail that tells a specialist a lot about how the watch has been treated.
The Big Bang is a frequent target for counterfeiters because its shape is so recognizable. Insist on an inspection that includes opening the case and identifying the movement, and favor sellers with the original box and warranty card. Mismatched or aftermarket straps, a wrong-sized case for the reference, and screws that don't line up with the brand's finishing are all reasons to slow down.
Budget for the case as well as the movement. A watch that runs perfectly may still need a new strap, inserts or a ceramic bezel, and pricing those parts before you buy is the difference between a fair deal and an expensive surprise. A written condition report from an independent gives you something concrete to negotiate with.
The Big Bang launched in 2005 and quickly became Hublot's best-known line, built around a layered case of mixed materials.
Many versions, yes, particularly those using established Swiss chronograph calibers. Models with Hublot's in-house Unico movement tend to go to the brand for parts.
Usually because someone opened the case without the correct tools. It's worth mentioning to a specialist, since it can hint at undocumented past work.
On recent models with the quick-change system, yes. Make sure the replacement matches your exact case size and generation.
Hublot Big Bang owners use Hublot specialists for servicing, authentication and restoration.
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