Hublot

• cal. HUB 1400CT twin spring barrel movement, manual wind movement, 33 jewels, one-minute flying fifths tourbillon, compensation balance • skeletonized dial, outer black tracking, eccentric subsidiary dials for 60-second chronograph indication 30-minute register, arch-form 5-day power reserve indication, tourbillon carriage visible at 6 o'clock •  black ceramic bezel and case, single rectangular chronograph pusher, sapphire crystal display back secured by six screws • case, dial and movement signed • stainless steel Hublot deployant clasp • box, packaging

The watch is in near-new condition throughout. The movement is running and chronograph is functioning, however it might need service soon. The dial and case are clean and show almost no wear. The outside of the back is numbered NO. 41/50 and 305 689812.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping.

Important Notice regarding importation into the United States of Rolex watches
Sotheby's cannot arrange for the delivery of Rolex watches to the United States because U.S. laws restricts the import of Rolex watches. The buyer or a designated agent may collect the property in the country of sale."

The brand Hublot was founded in 1980 by Carlo Crocco. His concept was to design a watch that would break with the traditional watchmaking of the past and create a modern classic using diverse materials. For 25 years Hublot's production would remain faithful to this design throughout all of its different collections. 

In 2004 Jean-Claude Biver, who had made a name for himself at the helm of Blancpain, succeeded Crocco as the CEO of Hublot. He surprised the luxury watch industry with this move by joining a firm considered by some to be of a lesser caliber. For him it was a perfect fit, as Hublot would offer him the opportunity to realize his vision of a watch that incorporated the fusion of various high-tech metals and materials, which would become the company's trademark.

In a 2006 interview with WatchTime Magazine, Biver stated that his goal was not only to use fusion in the aesthetics of the case and band design, but to go deeper and create new forms of 'mechanical watch technology.... Fusion would be synonymous with the tradition of the future.'

Hublot introduced the 'Bigger Bang' tourbillon in 2006. Three series were made in total: one with a platinum case and black ceramic bezel, another with 18k 'red' gold case with black ceramic bezel (such as the following lot), and a third with black ceramic case and bezel (such as the present lot).  Each was produced in a limited series of 18 pieces.

The flying tourbillon carriage with three lightning-bolt-style arms measures 13¼ mm. It functions without ball bearings and is raised 2.80 mm above the bottom base plate, creating the impression that it is suspended in mid air.