Hublot Spirit of Big Bang 42mm Black Ceramic vs Hublot Spirit of Big Bang 42mm King Gold
| Specification | Hublot Spirit of Big Bang 42mm Black Ceramic | Hublot Spirit of Big Bang 42mm King Gold |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Hublot | Hublot |
| Collection | Spirit of Big Bang | Spirit of Big Bang |
| Reference | 641.CI.0173.RX | 641.OX.0183.LR |
| Category | Chronograph | Chronograph |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Caliber | HUB4700 | HUB4700 |
| Power Reserve | 50h | 50h |
| Frequency | 28,800 vph | 28,800 vph |
| Case Diameter | 42.0mm | 42.0mm |
| Case Thickness | 14.0mm | 14.0mm |
| Case Material | Black Ceramic | 18K King Gold |
| Crystal | Sapphire | Sapphire |
| Water Resistance | 100m / 328ft | 100m / 328ft |
| Weight | 95g | 170g |
| MSRP | $18,900 | $34,800 |
| Market Price | $13,500 | $25,000 |
In-Depth Comparison
The Hublot Spirit of Big Bang 42mm Black Ceramic and the Hublot Spirit of Big Bang 42mm King Gold 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 Spirit of Big Bang reference was introduced in 2016, while this Spirit of Big Bang reference debuted in 2014. The Hublot Spirit of Big Bang 42mm Black Ceramic is the newer release, potentially featuring more modern technology and finishing.
Movement And Mechanics
At the heart of the Hublot Spirit of Big Bang 42mm Black Ceramic beats the HUB4700 caliber offering a 50-hour power reserve running at 28,800 vph with 32 jewels. The Hublot Spirit of Big Bang 42mm King Gold is powered by the HUB4700 with a 50-hour power reserve operating at 28,800 vph featuring 32 jewels. Both watches offer identical power reserves, making them equally practical for daily rotation.
Dimensions And Wearability
The Hublot Spirit of Big Bang 42mm Black Ceramic features a 42.0mm case at 14.0mm thick with a 51.0mm lug-to-lug measurement, crafted in Black Ceramic. The Hublot Spirit of Big Bang 42mm King Gold comes in at 42.0mm and 14.0mm thick with 51.0mm lug-to-lug, constructed from 18K King Gold. Both watches are virtually identical in diameter, so wrist presence will be comparable. At 95g, the Hublot Spirit of Big Bang 42mm Black Ceramic is the lighter of the two.
Materials And Construction
The Hublot Spirit of Big Bang 42mm Black Ceramic uses a Sapphire crystal paired with a Fixed, 6 H-shaped ceramic screws, tonneau-shaped bezel, while the Hublot Spirit of Big Bang 42mm King Gold features Sapphire crystal with a Fixed, 6 H-shaped King Gold screws, tonneau-shaped bezel. On the wrist, the Hublot Spirit of Big Bang 42mm Black Ceramic comes on a Black rubber strap with textile accent with Deployant buckle, while the Hublot Spirit of Big Bang 42mm King Gold is fitted with Black alligator leather with rubber lining featuring Deployant buckle.
Water Resistance And Capability
The Hublot Spirit of Big Bang 42mm Black Ceramic is rated to 100m / 328ft and the Hublot Spirit of Big Bang 42mm King Gold 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 Spirit of Big Bang 42mm Black Ceramic lists for $18,900 compared to $34,800 for the Hublot Spirit of Big Bang 42mm King Gold. The Hublot Spirit of Big Bang 42mm Black Ceramic is the more accessible option at MSRP, saving $15,900 at retail. On the secondary market, the Hublot Spirit of Big Bang 42mm Black Ceramic trades around $13,500 while the Hublot Spirit of Big Bang 42mm King Gold commands approximately $25,000.
The Verdict
Choosing between the Hublot Spirit of Big Bang 42mm Black Ceramic and the Hublot Spirit of Big Bang 42mm King Gold ultimately comes down to personal priorities. For value-conscious buyers, the Hublot Spirit of Big Bang 42mm Black Ceramic 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.