When it comes to larger-than-life designs, Hublot is the master – after all, one of its most famous creations is named the Big Bang for a reason. But sometimes distilling the essence of a watch down into a smaller package can be just as much, if not more, of a technical and aesthetic challenge. With its new Time Only Big Bang Integral, presented in a slimmed down 40mm for the first time, it successfully retains the statement impact of this bold timepiece in a more compact design. 

The thinnest take to date, it opens up the watch to a wider variety of wrist sizes. Adding to the comfortable fit and wearability of the timepiece is the three-link, integrated bracelet. Each link has been individually polished or satin-finished, chamfered and bevelled, with the mix of matte and glossy surfaces playing with angles and light. 

At its core the watch is a simple three-hander, but as with all of Hublot’s creations it is powered by some complex engineering. The movement has been adjusted to fit the new case size, the workmanship of which shines through in the openworked dial. Here you can see how the calibre snugly fills the space, with each surface satin-finished for a matte effect, enhancing legibility. Meanwhile, the case has been cut from a single block, except for the bezel and the rubber-moulded crown, chosen to provide the best grip. The Time Only Big Bang Integral comes in yellow gold and titanium, along with an all-black ceramic version limited to 250 pieces. 

hublot.com