Hublot Skull Bang: Capturing The Picciotto Factor
© Stephane de Bourgies 2012
It’s been quite some time since we featured a Hublot timepiece here on TWL but when the brand teamed up with one of our favorite characters in the industry we just couldn’t resist. And so without further ado, we give you the Skull Bang, a limited edition collector’s timepiece produced in collaboration with Chronopassion’s flamboyant owner, Mr Laurent Picciotto.
The Picciotto Factor
Picciotto’s relationship with Hublot is quite an important one, he opened the brand’s first ever boutique, in Paris in 2007 and has continued to contribute to their success in his role as somewhat of an informal ambassador for the brand. As such it seems that this collaboration has been a long-time coming.
Presented in a classic 45 mm Fusion case made of black ceramic and satin finished, the overall effect of the Skull Bang is quite subtle and yet in your face at the same time. This is in no small part thanks to the distinctive skull placed in the middle of the black dial, the latter of which has been finished with a galvanic sunburst pattern.
© Stephane de Bourgies 2012
Although the watch is all black the use of different finishes gives it plenty of character. For example the ceramic bezel has been satin finished whilst the H-shaped countersunk screws are PVD titanium. The bezel lugs are made of black composite resin and the crown is polished ceramic complete with Hublot logo.
What I really like however is that unlike some other so-called “collaborations” with brand ambassadors the Skull Bang really exhibits Picciotto’s trademark rock’n’roll style and unconventional attitude, as you can see in the picture below. In short, it’s a really cool looking timepiece.
© Stephane de Bourgies 2012
Animating the Skull Bang is a self-winding caliber HUB 1112 complete with 42-hour power reserve and date function.
Presented on a leather strap with black PVD steel folding clasp the Skull Bang is a limited edition of just 100 pieces and as you would expect each one is available exclusively from Picciotto’s Hublot boutique at Rue Saint Honoré in Paris for the reasonable price of US$12,280.
The Final Word
When it comes to collaborations and limited edition timepieces, Hublot are undeniably king. Admittedly though they don’t always get it right, at least from a personal standpoint anyway, but in this case I think they’ve really done both the timepiece and the collaborator justice. Certainly this is not a watch that will suit all tastes but for those who like to walk a little on the wild side, this may just be the piece for you.
For more information please visit the official Hublot website: www.hublot.com
Category: Watch Reviews
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Tom is the founder and editor of The Watch Lounge. Together with his team he is dedicated to bringing you the best, original content you won't find anywhere else on the net.Subscribe
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