Cover story (https://www.webchronos.net/features/127954/The MP-10, which we also featured in [previous article], is a model that deliberately abandons Hublot's signature multi-axis tourbillon and returns to the basics of watchmaking. However, it is unprecedented in that it lacks a dial, hands, and rotor. Instead, it is equipped with a roller-type display, a cylindrical power reserve indicator, and an automatic winding tourbillon powered by two linear weights.
A masterpiece that faithfully translates the design and mechanism of a concept model into a finished product. While it might seem like a brute-force approach, every detail has been carefully considered, from the smooth movement of the linear weights to the comfortable fit provided by the ergonomically designed case. Automatic winding (Cal.HUB9013). 66 jewels. 21,600 vibrations/hour. Power reserve of approximately 48 hours. Titanium case (54.1mm high x 41.5mm wide, 22.4mm thick). 3 ATM water resistance. Limited edition of 50 pieces worldwide.
Photographs by Eiichi Okuyama
Masamasa Hirota (this magazine), Yukiya Suzuki (this magazine): Interview and text
Text by Masayuki Hirota (Chronos-Japan)
Text & Edited by Yukiya Suzuki (Chronos-Japan)
Edited by Yuto Hosoda (Chronos-Japan)
[Article published in the July 2025 issue of Kronos Japan]
A unique milestone created by Hublot
While claiming to have "returned to the fundamentals of watchmaking," the MP-10 Tourbillon Weight Energy System Titanium boasts an extremely ambitious design. Furthermore, its case design is completely different from that of ordinary wristwatches.
The HUB9013 movement features two horizontally moving weights and a tourbillon tilted at a 35-degree angle. It boasts a staggering 592 parts. One reason for this complexity lies in its extremely ambitious linear weight system.
The movement features a vertically moving linear weight, a roller display, a cylindrical power reserve indicator, and a tourbillon tilted at 35 degrees. It boasts a unique design where the mainspring barrel arbor extends to transmit power to the gear train at the 6 o'clock position, which is then returned to the hour and minute rollers via a cylindrical pinion. Despite this, the winding and time-setting crown has a smooth feel. The protrusion visible on the back is the time-setting crown; a firm push causes it to pop out, allowing for time setting.
The idea of winding a mainspring with a vertical weight already exists. However, these methods had the weakness of being susceptible to shock. "The most innovative aspect of the linear system is that, through thorough testing and optimization of the weight and cushioning system, it achieves high winding efficiency and robust shock resistance," Hublot explains. Therefore, the development team conducted numerous wear tests.
The key to this system is the springs incorporated above and below the weight. This shock absorption system, as Hublot calls it, absorbs the shock of the weight at the end of its movement. The mechanism is similar to the springs incorporated in older half-rotor automatic watches, but it has been repeatedly tested to optimize absorption even when subjected to strong shocks. Of course, the presence of the springs also greatly reduces the noise when the weight moves. In addition, Hublot has adopted an MPS reverser with a built-in ceramic bearing in the automatic winding mechanism that is connected to the weight. This reverser, also used in the new Unico, is compact, wear-resistant, and requires no lubrication, resulting in extremely high winding efficiency. Another advantage is that it is quiet. Hublot has evolved the linear weight automatic winding system, which had long been considered a novelty, into something truly usable.
The rotating hour and minute display is also unique. While this type of display already exists, the MP-10's version transmits power from the mainspring barrel to the tourbillon at the 6 o'clock position, and then returns it to the hour and minute display at the 12 o'clock position via a long barrel pinion. Normally, such a long barrel would inevitably cause the center to be off. In contrast, Hublot embedded rubies in the upper and lower parts of the mainspring barrel and in the shaft that transmits power to the gear train at the 6 o'clock position to ensure precise positioning. In addition, they improved the display accuracy of each hour and minute roller by adding friction to the minute display rollers. They say that "Hublot has extensive experience with roller-type displays, as we previously implemented in the MP-05." The result of this experience is the MP-10's roller-type display supported by an extremely long barrel.
This movement also features a unique way of securing the tourbillon carriage. While normally it's supported only by an axle, this one is secured with a circlip-type lock that clamps the components. This is likely to distribute the weight of the carriage, which is positioned at an angle.
The exterior surrounding this unique movement is equally original. The strap and case are completely integrated, and the sapphire crystal extends to the sides to showcase the linear weight. Moreover, Hublot managed to secure such a complex sapphire crystal using only adhesive. They say, "Adhering sapphire crystal requires extremely advanced technology, making it relatively complex."
The MP-10, born from the pouring in of all of Hublot's technology, is a more ambitious model than it appears. Moreover, its level of perfection, including its feel, exceeded expectations. This model will undoubtedly be a milestone for Hublot.
