ReviewSay Aloha To The Hublot Big Bang Unico ‘O Ka Mua
As an homage to the island of Hawai'i, Swiss luxury watchmakers have introduced a limited-edition, first-of-its-kind timepiece, which features Polynesian design elements
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Carrying forward their philosophy of the Art of Fusion, Hublot have released a new timepiece blending their watchmaking prowess with unique motifs inspired by the US Island of Hawai’i. Presenting the Big Bang Unico ’O Ka Mua, a limited-edition model designed exclusively for Hawai’i. With this, the brand marked their first-ever production of a limited-edition timepiece for the Hublot Honolulu Ala Moana boutique. Hence the name, ’O Ka Mua, meaning ‘the first’.
Hublot are known for the use of state-of-the-art materials such as carbon, ceramic, titanium, and sapphire crystal in their watches. They were the first to present a pairing of gold with rubber in a timepiece, back in 1980—a pairing that is far from uncommon today. The porthole (hublot in French) design on their cases makes them a highly distinguishable brand with a unique design ethos. In 2005, the brand further strengthened their position by introducing the Big Bang collection, featuring timepieces with large case sizes, manufacture movements, and high complications. Now, Hublot have added another unique piece to this mix by taking inspiration from Hawai’i—the Big Bang Unico ’O Ka Mua.
The Big Bang Unico ’O Ka Mua: Dial And Case
Featuring Polynesian design elements on its skeletonised dial, bezel, and strap, the ’O Ka Mua encapsulates the essence of Hawai’i beautifully. The blue dial features concentric circles with symbols that honour Polynesian artistry inspired by nature: the sun—a key emblem in Polynesian culture—is located centrally, surrounded by designs representing turtles, weaving patterns, waves, and shark teeth. While the turtle symbolises longevity and peace, the waves represent life, change, and the unknown. And the shark teeth denote adaptability, protection, and guidance.
Crafted from micro-blasted black ceramic, its 42mm case offers a water resistance of up to 100m. Decorated with a Polynesian design, the bezel is also in micro-blasted ceramic, but in blue, providing a visual contrast. Additionally, the caseback is intricately embedded with Hawaiian Islands, thus adding to the overall aesthetic appeal of the watch.
Making A Case For Sustainability
To promote sustainability, Hublot have presented the ’O Ka Mua timepiece in a special ‘Greenbox case’ made entirely from oak, featuring the watch’s unique design on top. Carved from traceable wood, it encourages responsible sourcing and short supply chains. Furthermore, 98 percent of its removable interior is made from eco-friendly materials such as recycled fabrics, plastic yarns, PET, recycled paper, and cardboard, making the case reusable.
The Movement
This new watch is powered by the Unico, Hublot’s in-house automatic chronograph movement. Featuring a column wheel and dual-clutch mechanism on the dial side, it offers an energy reserve of 72 hours. Furthermore, the presence of silicon components minimise friction for better performance.
Read more about the Unico movement
Available with two interchangeable straps: Hublot’s classic, black-lined rubber strap or a calf leather strap with Polynesian motifs—the ’O Ka Mua caters to diverse tastes. Lastly, this model is limited to only 25 pieces, making it even more exclusive and desirable for watch collectors.
The Hublot Big Bang Unico ‘O Ka Mua In A Nutshell
- Case: Micro-blasted ceramic—black case, blue bezel; 42mm
- Glass: Sapphire crystal with antireflective treatment
- Water resistance: 100m
- Dial: Blue
- Functions: Hours, minutes, date, flyback chronograph
- Movement: HUB1280 Unico manufacture automatic calibre; 72-hour power reserve
- Strap: Blue, black-lined rubber strap or calf leather strap with Polynesian motifs
