Swiss luxury watch brand HUBLOT is holding a limited-time pop-up event, "The Art of Fusion ~The Fusion of Different Materials and Ideas~," at the Nihonbashi Mitsukoshi Main Store, 1st Floor Stage, until August 27, 2024 (Tuesday). This event offers a special opportunity to experience HUBLOT's innovative spirit and exceptional craftsmanship.

Currently, Nihonbashi Mitsukoshi Main Store is hosting the "Mitsukoshi World Watch Fair," a coveted event for watch enthusiasts. The HUBLOT pop-up event on the first floor, launched concurrently with this major fair, reflects the brand's new spatial concept and features interior design similar to that of its Omotesando and Isetan Shinjuku stores. The refined space, based on beige and gray tones, enhances the beauty and technical prowess of HUBLOT watches. These calm colors seem to symbolize the fusion of the brand's innovation and traditional watchmaking techniques.

The theme of the event is HUBLOT's in-house developed and manufactured chronograph movement, "UNICO." At the venue, demonstrations were held allowing visitors to observe the disassembly and assembly of the first generation UNICO model (born in 2010) and the second generation model (born in 2018) (Note: Technician appearances concluded on August 18th; movement and case materials are currently on display). Mr. Fujiwara, a dedicated HUBLOT technician, spoke about the characteristics of UNICO as follows.

"As we handle everything from design to manufacturing in our own factories, we produce extremely precise parts. In particular, compared to the first UNICO and the current UNICO 2, the precision of the parts has improved significantly."

He mentioned that the precision of the UNICO 2 parts is truly felt during assembly. The parts seem to fall "plop" into the main plate as if being drawn in, signifying improved machining accuracy for each gear. Furthermore, Mr. Fujiwara elaborated on the technical evolution of "UNICO" as follows:

"The biggest change from UNICO 1 to UNICO 2 is the minimization of minute errors and fluctuations when starting the chronograph. This is achieved through the unique development of a special gear for the horizontal clutch."

At the venue, a special camera was installed to allow for detailed observation of UNICO's structure, which holds five patents. The images captured by this camera were projected onto a monitor, allowing visitors to closely examine UNICO's intricate internal structure. Mr. Fujiwara explained the unique technology employed in UNICO:

"The horizontal clutch has a two-layer structure. Moreover, by incorporating elasticity, it absorbs the shock generated by the meshing of gears during chronograph operation. HUBLOT has succeeded in manufacturing this part using a special process called LIGA. HUBLOT is the only brand to use this uniquely shaped part in its horizontal clutch."

Here is a macro image of that part (image above). In reality, it's a part just a few millimeters in diameter. It has a fine, hair-like shape and generates elasticity through a spiral structure.

Mr. Fujiwara continued:

"While UNICO 1 had a movement thickness of 8.05mm, UNICO 2 has been slimmed down to 6.75mm. In addition, the accuracy of the chronograph itself has been improved. Because UNICO places the chronograph module on the dial side, the column wheel is visible and prominent. However, beyond that, it is packed with various technical innovations like these."

The pop-up event showcases HUBLOT's latest and most innovative models. Particularly drawing attention are the "MP-10 Tourbillon Weight Energy System Titanium," limited to 50 pieces worldwide, and the "Big Bang MP-11 14 Days Power Reserve Water Blue Sapphire."

The "MP-10 Tourbillon Weight Energy System Titanium" is a complex mechanical model featuring an innovative energy system powered by the piston motion of two linear weights, with its titanium case ensuring a lightweight design.

Meanwhile, the "Big Bang MP-11 14 Days Power Reserve Water Blue Sapphire" boasts an impressive 14-day power reserve and features a striking water blue sapphire case, characterized by its high brilliance and transparency, successfully created through HUBLOT's proprietary research and development.

In conclusion, HUBLOT's pop-up event, "The Art of Fusion ~The Fusion of Different Materials and Ideas~," presents a valuable opportunity to directly experience the brand's innovative technology and aesthetics. It is a must-see not only for HUBLOT fans but also for anyone interested in the forefront of luxury watchmaking. With the event running only until August 27, 2024 (Tuesday), those with the time are highly encouraged to visit.

Event Overview
Period | Until August 27, 2024 (Tuesday)
Hours | 10:00 AM - 7:30 PM
Venue | Nihonbashi Mitsukoshi Main Store, 1st Floor Stage
Address | 1-4-1 Nihonbashi Muromachi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
Phone | 03-3241-3311 (Nihonbashi Mitsukoshi Main Store General Inquiries)