Andrewluff offers an exclusive first look at the Hublot Big Bang Alps, a limited edition release unveiled at an exhibition in Courchevel. His detailed post, complete with live pictures, highlights the innovative frosted carbon case inspired by the Matterhorn and the unique 'cuddly cuff' strap, providing valuable insights into Hublot's creative direction.
(References: 411.QK.7170.VR.ALP18 and 465.QK.7170.VR.1204.ALP18)
Tonight in Courchevel during an exhibition of Fire and Ice, Hublot announced the release of new 2 Limited Edition models called the 'Big Bang Alps'.
Luckily, I was able to see the piece last week and able to take some special pictures to share!Both models are limited to 100 pieces and feature a case and bezel made from a new frosted carbon formed from an aggregate of small pieces of rock that give the illusion of granite. This material is widespread throughout the Alps, a mountain range visible from the Hublot manufacture in Nyon and home to the Matterhorn. It is the most famous Swiss mountain, and its distinctive shape, known around the world which was the inspiration for the Big Bang Alps. They are both fitted with an ice blue leather strap and a sheep fur 'cuddly cuff' which personally I think works well with the ladies model (I cannot see a man wearing it on the mens version).
The 45 mm version powered by the inhouse Unico movement (Hublot calibre HUB1242) and encased in a case and bezel made from frosted carbon and featuring a sapphire caseback. 
The women's 39 mm diameter version features a stunning ice blue sunburst dial and the same frosted carbon case however is set with 42 sparkling diamonds totalling 1.00 carat. The black microblasted ceramic bezel and sapphire case back is engraved with the peak of the Matterhorn. 
Side by side the 45mm vs the 39mm models
The one click system aides the quick removal of the cuff and shows the beautifully soft ice blue strap.
"From the piste to a gala evening, on snowshoe walks or at meals with family and friends, we hope that your Hublot Big Bang Alps will accompany you throughout the winter season. That's why we've made it as versatile as possible. As changeable as the Matterhorn itself, with a different face for every photo. The Art of Fusion technology and watchmaking expertise combine at the height of fashion and comfort."
Ricardo Guadalupe, CEO of Hublot and finally on the wrist...
This is one of my favourite Limited Edition releases from Hublot in a long time, the new carbon case and the ice blue I think works perfectly together.CheersAndrew
Technical Specs:
References:
411.QK.7170.VR.ALP18 (Frosted Carbon) – Big Bang Alps
465.QK.7170.VR.1204.ALP18 (Frosted Carbon Diamonds) – Big Bang One Click Alps
Diameter:
45 mm
39mm (Diamonds)
Case:
Frosted carbon fiber
Bezel:
Frosted carbon fiber (45mm)
Black-plated, set with 42 diamonds for 1.00ct (39mm)
Water Resistant:
10 ATM (100 m)
Dial:
Mat ice blue skeleton (45mm)
Satin-finished ice blue sunray (39mm)
Movement:
HUB1242, UNICO manufacture self-winding chronograph flyback movement with column wheel (45mm)
HUB1710, self-winding movement (39mm)
Power reserve:
72 Hours (45mm)
50 Hours (39mm)
Strap:
Black rubber and ice blue sheep leather cuff straps with white stitching and sheep fur
This message has been edited by pingtsai on 2018-01-25 21:09:37 
