As a Depeche Mode fan since my prepubescent years, having the opportunity to play with one of the 250 Depeche Mode Big Bangs was one of the best surprises Hublot had in store for me at Baselworld 2013.
Now I’m sure many critics see this as just another opportunity for Hublot to increase brand awareness by teaming up with a reputable group for their comeback. They would be right, but for a Depeche Mode fan such as myself, this watch perfectly resonates the spirit of the band. Here’s why.
If case you’re not familiar with their music (in which case I would have to ask where you’ve been living for the past few decades), Depeche Mode are easily one of the most globally popular electro-pop bands of all time, known for their innovative sampling methods and their influence on techno and electronic/pop music in general. While often categorized as “synth-pop”, Depeche Mode’s sound carries a uniquely dark, almost gothic edge that continues to fascinate and influence artists even today.
Knowing Hublot and Depeche Mode, it came as no surprise that their namesake’s watch would be a very, very dark piece. Remember, Hublot originally collaborated with Depeche Mode in 2010 when they created 12 unique All Black pieces, which were sold at a charity auction for the Teenage Cancer Trust. So, while I was certain it would be something black, I was blown away by how far Hublot had gone to make this special edition stand out.
Matte black ceramic was an almost natural choice fir the case and bezel, with the open “aero” dial giving it that touch of complexity and depth. The bezel is certainly the most eye-catching element with its pyramid stud decoration all around. In case you’re wondering, the spikes or “clous pyramide” inspiration comes from Depeche Mode’s most recent logo that you can find on the cover of their latest album Delta Machine.
The skeleton dial, which reveals the chronograph mechanism beneath, is expectedly all-black with a dark ruthenium surface treatment, again with pyramid studs used for the hour markers.
The strap is also unique to the Depeche Mode Big Bang, using a heat-molded calfskin strip of leather with stud shaped polymer resin injected into it. This is sewn onto the black rubber, making the strap much more supple and comfortable than it looks.
As “Charity Partner” on Depeche Mode’s Delta Machine Tour, portions of the sales of the Depeche Mode Big Bang will go to the charity “water”, a non-profit bringing safe drinking water to the developing world.
Amr Sindi The Horophile