Innovation in the luxury watch industry often manifests through groundbreaking complications and intricate mechanisms. However, a parallel and equally significant avenue of advancement lies in materials science and the fundamental sensory experience of interacting with a timepiece. Swiss haute horlogerie maison Hublot, renowned for its daring mechanical innovations, has once again demonstrated its prowess by introducing a novel tactile material: "Soft Touch" rubber. This groundbreaking application, debuted on a pair of Hublot Big Bang Original models in striking black and red colorways, marks a significant evolution in how wearers connect with their timepieces.
The Genesis of Tactile Innovation
Hublot has consistently pushed the boundaries of material exploration in watchmaking. From pioneering the use of ceramic and carbon fiber in luxury watch cases to experimenting with unconventional alloys, the brand has cultivated a reputation for material innovation that rivals its mechanical prowess. The "Soft Touch" technology represents the latest chapter in this ongoing narrative, focusing on the often-overlooked aspect of touch.
This development is particularly noteworthy given the historical context of rubber in watchmaking. Approximately two decades ago, the integration of vulcanized rubber onto metal components like crowns and pushers was a prevalent trend in luxury sport watches. This application served a dual purpose: enhancing grip for improved operability and providing a degree of wear resistance. While rubber continues to be a staple for watch straps, its use as a primary case material in high-end timepieces has been relatively limited, with notable exceptions like the NORQAIN Wild ONE. Hublot’s "Soft Touch" initiative aims to reintegrate rubber as a significant case material, not merely as an accent.
"Soft Touch": A Revolution in Rubber Application
The core of Hublot’s "Soft Touch" innovation lies in a sophisticated micro-perforation process applied to the rubber surface. This technique imbues the rubber with a velvety-smooth, almost ethereal texture that is remarkably pleasant to the touch. The minuscule perforations, imperceptible to the naked eye, serve a dual function. Firstly, they are instrumental in achieving the signature soft, tactile feel, creating an inviting surface that encourages interaction. For enthusiasts who enjoy the physical sensation of their watch, this material offers a uniquely satisfying experience.
Secondly, these micro-perforations have a profound impact on how the material interacts with light. By trapping and diffusing light rather than reflecting it directly, the "Soft Touch" rubber imparts an extraordinary depth and matte finish. This effect is reminiscent of ultra-black materials like Vantablack, which absorb an exceptional amount of light. Consequently, the deep blacks appear richer, and the contrast with polished elements, such as the faceted hands and hour markers, is amplified, lending the watch a striking visual presence. Hublot emphasizes that, unlike Vantablack, their "Soft Touch" material is designed to be experienced through touch.
The Debut Models: Big Bang Original Soft Touch
The inaugural timepieces to showcase this innovative material are the Hublot Big Bang Original Soft Touch watches, presented in two captivating iterations: an all-black and an all-red variant. These watches are constructed with titanium cores, over which the distinctive perforated rubber is expertly molded. The careful application ensures that the rubber envelops not only the case but also significant portions of the watch’s aesthetic, creating a cohesive and immersive tactile and visual experience.
The visual impact of the "Soft Touch" treatment is subtle yet profound. From a distance, the all-black model, for instance, might bear a resemblance to Hublot’s other matte black offerings, such as the ceramic iterations. However, upon closer inspection and, more importantly, upon touch, the originality of the "Soft Touch" material becomes undeniable. The subtle interplay of light and shadow created by the micro-perforations lends a unique depth and dimensionality that distinguishes it from conventional finishes. The brand reports that the material is engineered for durability, suggesting it will hold up well to the rigors of daily wear, though long-term performance will be a key point of observation for collectors and critics alike. Many observers have already noted that these executions might represent some of the most visually arresting Hublot Big Bang watches to date.
The Big Bang Original Platform
The choice of the Big Bang Original as the platform for this new material innovation is strategic. These models represent a deliberate return to the design ethos of Hublot’s early Big Bang timepieces, serving as a homage to the collection’s 20th anniversary, which was celebrated in 2025 with a series of limited-edition releases. Following the initial sell-out of these anniversary models, Hublot renamed the subsequent iterations as the "Big Bang Original," directly referencing their design lineage.
However, the "Original" designation belies the advanced technology and materials employed. The current Big Bang Original models are thoroughly modern. They feature robust 43mm cases, a comfortable 13.2mm thickness, and a water resistance of 100 meters, making them suitable for a wide range of activities. Both the front and the caseback are protected by flat sapphire crystals, ensuring clarity and durability. A key functional feature is Hublot’s proprietary One Click strap release system, allowing for effortless interchangeability of straps.
At the heart of these timepieces beats the in-house Caliber HUB1280 Unico automatic chronograph movement. This highly regarded chronograph movement operates at a frequency of 4Hz and offers a substantial three-day power reserve. Its performance and refinement are considered top-tier within its price segment. The operational feel of the chronograph pushers on these modern Big Bang Originals is a testament to Hublot’s engineering advancements, offering a significantly more precise and satisfying user experience compared to the ETA-based movements found in earlier Hublot chronographs.
Practical Considerations and Future Outlook
While the "Soft Touch" rubber offers a visually and tactilely appealing experience, it is not without its practical considerations. Like many velvety-textured materials, it has a tendency to attract lint and minor debris. Hublot acknowledges this and recommends a specific cleaning process involving water and a suitable brush or cloth. The advantage over actual fabric materials, however, is that the rubber can be wet-cleaned more effectively.
Hublot has confirmed that neither the all-black nor the all-red "Soft Touch" models are limited editions. This suggests a broader commitment to this new material and indicates that further color variations are likely in the future. Given the success of the solid dial on the Big Bang Original, the introduction of vibrant hues like yellow or purple for the "Soft Touch" rubber would be a logical and exciting progression. The Big Bang Original platform, with its inherent design strength, appears to be an ideal canvas for exploring the full potential of this innovative material.
The introduction of "Soft Touch" rubber is poised to spark considerable discussion within the watch community. The long-term wearability and resilience of this new application will undoubtedly be a focal point of analysis. Nonetheless, the initial reception points towards a successful fusion of cutting-edge material science and iconic watch design.
The pricing for these new models is set at $24,900 USD. The reference for the All Red model is 431.RXR.2770.RX.VEL, and the All Black model is reference 431.RXN.2740.RX.VEL. This pricing places them firmly within the competitive landscape of high-end integrated chronograph watches, where innovation and material differentiation play a crucial role in consumer appeal. Hublot’s continuous pursuit of novel materials and tactile experiences ensures its position at the forefront of luxury watchmaking, inviting enthusiasts to not only admire but also deeply engage with their timepieces. The "Soft Touch" Big Bang Original is a clear indicator that the future of watchmaking will be as much about how a watch feels as how it performs.
