If you choose Hublot, choose Unico. What are the benefits of choosing an in-house developed movement?

2022.03.15

If you're interested in Hublot's Big Bang, you should also learn more about the Unico-equipped models. Understanding the movement's features and appeal will make it easier to choose your favorite Big Bang model. We'll introduce the Unico's specifications, history, and the features of its movement.


What is Hublot's in-house developed movement "Unico"?

The Unico was Hublot's first in-house chronograph movement. Let's start by reviewing the basics of the Unico, including the origin of its name and its history.

The origin and meaning of Unico

The name of the movement, "unico," is a Spanish word meaning "unique" or "one of a kind." It is synonymous with the English word "unique."

As the name suggests, the Unico, a self-winding chronograph movement developed and manufactured in-house by Hublot, is characterized by its innovative structure. It has been developed with a precise design concept that impresses even watch connoisseurs.

Unico's strength lies in its use of high-tech manufacturing, using automated equipment for tasks that require precision to achieve high levels of accuracy.

The birth and achievements of Unico

The Unico (Cal. HUB1242) chronograph movement, Hublot's first in-house developed and manufactured movement, took approximately four years to develop. In addition to its flyback function, it boasts a power reserve of approximately 72 hours. This movement was the catalyst that earned Hublot its reputation as a manufacture brand.

Hublot was founded in Switzerland in 1980, and for a while after its founding, it used general-purpose movements from ETA, the largest movement manufacturer in the world.

However, following the huge success of the Big Bang, which was released in 2005, Hublot also began developing its own in-house movement. After about four years of work, the brand's first fully in-house chronograph movement, the Unico, was completed.

The Unico received high praise from the industry and helped Hublot gain recognition as a leading manufacture brand. In 2018, the company released the Unico 2, a watch designed for smaller aircraft.

Approximately nine years after the launch of the Unico, the Unico 2 (Cal. HUB1280) was designed to be installed in small-sized models. While it inherits the basic performance of the Unico, the thickness of the movement has been slimmed down by approximately 1.3 mm.


Benefits of choosing a Unico-equipped model

The Unico has been highly praised for both its design and functionality. Let's take a look at the specific benefits of each.

Enjoy innovative details

One of the benefits of choosing a Unico model is the innovative and intricate detail it offers, allowing you to admire the intricate assembly of over 300 parts from both the front and back.

Unico makes no compromises in its manufacturing, as it is committed to creating timepieces that are a showpiece. By meticulously designing every detail, the watches are not only functional but also beautiful.

The Unico is meticulously handcrafted by artisans, and is so well-made that it could be called a work of art. If you like mechanical-looking watches, you will find it very appealing.

Reliable specs for comfortable use

Another major benefit is that the Unico boasts high specifications, such as a power reserve of approximately 72 hours and a vibration frequency of 28,800 vph, which are considered to be highly accurate.

Another advantage of the Unico-equipped models is the use of a column wheel, common to many high-end chronographs. Compared to the mass-produced cam mechanism, this allows for more stable and smooth operation of the pushers.

The Unico movement, which embodies Hublot's technological expertise, is also recommended for those looking for a highly reliable and comfortable model.