Hublot Big Bang Original Steel vs Hublot Big Bang Unico Black Magic

In-Depth Comparison

The Hublot Big Bang Original Steel and the Hublot Big Bang Unico Black Magic represent two compelling options in the luxury watch market. Both timepieces have earned devoted followings among collectors and enthusiasts, but they approach horology from distinctly different perspectives. Let's break down how these two watches compare across the key dimensions that matter most to buyers.

Heritage And Brand Prestige

Hublot and Hublot is a brand that needs no introduction. Comparing two models from the same manufacturer comes down to purpose, design philosophy, and intended use case. Both watches hail from Switzerland, benefiting from the region's deep horological tradition. This particular Big Bang reference was introduced in 2005, while this Big Bang reference debuted in 2021. The Hublot Big Bang Unico Black Magic is the newer release, potentially featuring more modern technology and finishing.

Movement And Mechanics

At the heart of the Hublot Big Bang Original Steel beats the HUB4100 caliber offering a 42-hour power reserve running at 28,800 vph with 25 jewels. The Hublot Big Bang Unico Black Magic is powered by the HUB1280 with a 72-hour power reserve operating at 28,800 vph featuring 38 jewels. The Hublot Big Bang Unico Black Magic wins on power reserve with a 30-hour advantage, which means less frequent winding for those who rotate watches.

Dimensions And Wearability

The Hublot Big Bang Original Steel features a 44.0mm case at 14.7mm thick with a 51.0mm lug-to-lug measurement, crafted in Stainless Steel. The Hublot Big Bang Unico Black Magic comes in at 42.0mm and 14.5mm thick with 48.0mm lug-to-lug, constructed from Black Ceramic. The Hublot Big Bang Unico Black Magic wears more compactly on the wrist, making it potentially more suitable for smaller wrists or those who prefer understated proportions. At 110g, the Hublot Big Bang Unico Black Magic is the lighter of the two.

Materials And Construction

The Hublot Big Bang Original Steel uses a Sapphire crystal paired with a Fixed, 6 H-shaped titanium screws bezel, while the Hublot Big Bang Unico Black Magic features Sapphire crystal with a Fixed, 6 H-shaped ceramic screws bezel. On the wrist, the Hublot Big Bang Original Steel comes on a Black rubber strap with deployant buckle with Deployant buckle, while the Hublot Big Bang Unico Black Magic is fitted with Black rubber strap featuring Deployant buckle.

Water Resistance And Capability

The Hublot Big Bang Original Steel is rated to 100m / 328ft and the Hublot Big Bang Unico Black Magic to 100m / 328ft. Both watches share the same water resistance rating, making them equally suited for aquatic activities.

Pricing And Value

At retail, the Hublot Big Bang Original Steel lists for $12,900 compared to $21,900 for the Hublot Big Bang Unico Black Magic. The Hublot Big Bang Original Steel is the more accessible option at MSRP, saving $9,000 at retail. On the secondary market, the Hublot Big Bang Original Steel trades around $9,500 while the Hublot Big Bang Unico Black Magic commands approximately $17,000.

The Verdict

Choosing between the Hublot Big Bang Original Steel and the Hublot Big Bang Unico Black Magic ultimately comes down to personal priorities. For value-conscious buyers, the Hublot Big Bang Original Steel delivers excellent quality at a lower price point. Both watches are exceptional timepieces that will serve their owner well for generations. We recommend trying both on the wrist at an authorized dealer before making your final decision, as comfort and emotional connection are ultimately just as important as specifications.