Blancpain Villeret Ultraplate Power Reserve 6606-3642-55B vs Hublot Spirit of Big Bang 42mm Black Ceramic

In-Depth Comparison

The Blancpain Villeret Ultraplate Power Reserve 6606-3642-55B and the Hublot Spirit of Big Bang 42mm Black Ceramic 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

Blancpain and Hublot are both highly respected names in watchmaking. Both watches hail from Switzerland, benefiting from the region's deep horological tradition. This particular Villeret reference was introduced in 2019, while this Spirit of Big Bang reference debuted in 2016. The Blancpain Villeret Ultraplate Power Reserve 6606-3642-55B is the newer release, potentially featuring more modern technology and finishing.

Movement And Mechanics

At the heart of the Blancpain Villeret Ultraplate Power Reserve 6606-3642-55B beats the Caliber 1150 caliber offering a 100-hour power reserve running at 21,600 vph with 29 jewels. The Hublot Spirit of Big Bang 42mm Black Ceramic is powered by the HUB4700 with a 50-hour power reserve operating at 28,800 vph featuring 32 jewels. The Blancpain Villeret Ultraplate Power Reserve 6606-3642-55B wins on power reserve with a 50-hour advantage, which means less frequent winding for those who rotate watches.

Dimensions And Wearability

The Blancpain Villeret Ultraplate Power Reserve 6606-3642-55B features a 40.0mm case at 7.7mm thick with a 47.0mm lug-to-lug measurement, crafted in 18k Rose Gold. The Hublot Spirit of Big Bang 42mm Black Ceramic comes in at 42.0mm and 14.0mm thick with 51.0mm lug-to-lug, constructed from Black Ceramic. The Blancpain Villeret Ultraplate Power Reserve 6606-3642-55B wears more compactly on the wrist, making it potentially more suitable for smaller wrists or those who prefer understated proportions. At 63g, the Blancpain Villeret Ultraplate Power Reserve 6606-3642-55B is the lighter of the two.

Materials And Construction

The Blancpain Villeret Ultraplate Power Reserve 6606-3642-55B uses a Sapphire box crystal crystal paired with a Fixed, polished, double stepped bezel, while the Hublot Spirit of Big Bang 42mm Black Ceramic features Sapphire crystal with a Fixed, 6 H-shaped ceramic screws, tonneau-shaped bezel. On the wrist, the Blancpain Villeret Ultraplate Power Reserve 6606-3642-55B comes on a Brown alligator leather strap with 18k rose gold pin buckle, while the Hublot Spirit of Big Bang 42mm Black Ceramic is fitted with Black rubber strap with textile accent featuring Deployant buckle.

Water Resistance And Capability

The Blancpain Villeret Ultraplate Power Reserve 6606-3642-55B is rated to 30m / 98ft and the Hublot Spirit of Big Bang 42mm Black Ceramic to 100m / 328ft. For water sports and diving, the Hublot Spirit of Big Bang 42mm Black Ceramic provides superior depth capability.

Pricing And Value

At retail, the Blancpain Villeret Ultraplate Power Reserve 6606-3642-55B lists for $18,500 compared to $18,900 for the Hublot Spirit of Big Bang 42mm Black Ceramic. On the secondary market, the Blancpain Villeret Ultraplate Power Reserve 6606-3642-55B trades around $15,000 while the Hublot Spirit of Big Bang 42mm Black Ceramic commands approximately $13,500.

The Verdict

Choosing between the Blancpain Villeret Ultraplate Power Reserve 6606-3642-55B and the Hublot Spirit of Big Bang 42mm Black Ceramic ultimately comes down to personal priorities. For dress occasions and smaller wrists, the Blancpain Villeret Ultraplate Power Reserve 6606-3642-55B is more versatile. 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.