2017 GENEVA DAYS & BASELWORLD New Releases Highlight

—Could you tell us about this year's key models?

Personally, I am very fond of the sapphire case models. I believe it is remarkable that we have released so many technically challenging pieces. At GENEVA DAYS, we introduced a perpetual calendar in a sapphire case. Then, at BASELWORLD, we released models with colored sapphire cases.

Next, our top recommendation as a brand is the GMT model. It is compact yet offers excellent operability.


Precisely. HUBLOT achieved its current success with the launch of the “Big Bang” in 2005, but initially, we faced the dilemma of wanting to become a manufacture but being unable to.

We are not aiming to be a traditional manufacture. This is deeply connected to HUBLOT’s brand concept, “The Art of Fusion” – the fusion of different materials and ideas. Our workshops are equipped with machinery for handling high-tech materials, setting us apart from conventional manufactures. We want to highlight HUBLOT as a “manufacture” that encompasses these aspects as well.



—Underlying this, is there an intention to release models with high user benefits, such as the easy-to-use GMT?

Certainly. Especially with the GMT model, many of our customers travel the world or have business that takes them to various regions. Being able to see two time zones on a single dial is very appealing.

Page02.Preserving Tradition Isn't Enough

Preserving Tradition Isn't Enough

—Changing tack, we perceive HUBLOT as a brand that allows us to dream. What is HUBLOT focusing on right now?

HUBLOT is simultaneously pursuing various projects. We have initiatives at all stages, from those ready for commercialization soon to those just beginning development.

In terms of materials, we perfected colored sapphire this year. We are also currently developing Magic Platinum, which is highly scratch-resistant.



Personally, I would like to redevelop the tourbillon. The tourbillon mechanism was invented over 200 years ago, so I believe we can recreate it in a modern form using contemporary technology. Something mechanical, intricate, and enjoyable to behold. That would be wonderful to create.

—There are concerns that the luxury watch market may have reached saturation. Do you believe there is still room for growth?

Over the past 20 years, luxury watches have seen remarkable growth. However, we cannot be content with the status quo. The industry as a whole must constantly pursue innovation to secure its future.

Preserving tradition is not enough; there must be a drive to reinvent it. If we can achieve that, further growth is possible.

—So, the necessity of being a manufacture stems from the desire to create innovative products?

Exactly. HUBLOT invests heavily in research and development. The ideas born from this research are also valuable resources for HUBLOT. Our research department includes not only watchmakers but also scientists and engineers.



—Are there scientists in the research institute?

Yes, chemists and physicists.

—Approximately when did individuals other than watchmakers begin participating in HUBLOT's research? Or, which model marked the turning point for HUBLOT to establish this new structure?

Around 2012, the development of Magic Gold became a turning point. This material was created in collaboration with the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, following three years of research and development.

We then hired those engineers as HUBLOT employees. Today, they are involved not only in the production of Magic Gold but also in Magic Platinum (hardened platinum), and other secret projects at a level I cannot discuss.

—You mentioned earlier that significant capital is invested in R&D. What scale are we talking about?

We're talking hundreds of millions of yen. Beyond that, I'll leave it to your imagination (laughs).