In the realm of haute horology, where tradition meets innovation, Hublot introduces the Spirit of Big Bang Titanium Dragon, a limited edition masterpiece inspired by the Chinese trinity: an eastern dragon, paper cutting, and marquetry. This horological gem, created in collaboration with the acclaimed Chinese artist Chen Fenwan, seamlessly blends ancient art forms with contemporary design, resulting in a unique expression of timekeeping luxury.
At the heart of this exquisite timepiece is a 3D silhouette of an eastern dragon, a symbol of prosperity, luck, strength, and wisdom in Chinese culture. The dragon, known as ‘Loong,’ takes center stage, its intricate form crafted from layered hands, wheels, and H-shaped screws, paying homage to the traditional art of paper cutting.
2024, the Year of the Wood Dragon in the Chinese calendar, is commemorated through Chen Fenwan’s expertise in paper cutting, honoring the natural fibers that define the soul of paper. The dragon’s head, composed of hands, wheels, and screws, extends onto a marquetry-designed rubber strap—a first for Hublot. The vibrant colors mirror those of Chen Fenwan’s original paper-cut sculpture, creating a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity.
This masterpiece serves as a metaphor for Hublot’s ‘Art of Fusion,’ encapsulating the brand’s philosophy of being first, unique, and different. The dragon, with its intricate layers, embodies the continual reimagination of materials and their expressions. Each component, strategically positioned, forms a multi-dimensional representation of the sacred creature, celebrating the enduring legacy of Chinese paper cutting.
The collaboration with Chinese artist Chen Fenwan brings a unique dimension to this timepiece. Chen Fenwan, a graduate of the Guangzhou Academy of Fine Arts, is renowned for her expertise in paper cutting. Her works, often large-scale and multi-dimensional, blend personal experiences with universal memories, resonating emotionally with a wider audience.
In 2024, Hublot invites Chinese tradition into the spotlight by presenting a rubber strap with a marquetry design—a testament to the brand’s commitment to innovation. Each dragon scale is meticulously colored and nano-vulcanized, integrated by hand into the strap in an intricate process that takes around 8 hours per piece.
The Spirit of Big Bang Titanium Dragon is offered in a limited edition of 88 pieces, each accompanied by a second titanium-grey Velcro fabric strap. This exclusive timepiece features the HUB1710 automatic movement, boasting a power reserve of 50 hours. As the dragon rises to the heavens, it symbolizes the ever-renewing totem of life, echoing Hublot’s philosophy of being first, unique, and different.
As we celebrate the Year of the Dragon, Hublot’s Spirit of Big Bang Titanium Dragon stands as a testament to the brand’s dedication to craftsmanship, innovation, and the rich tapestry of Chinese cultural heritage.
