I am first to admit that I was not an instant fan when I first saw this watch at Baselworld this year, I just really didn't get it and saw it as being overshadowed by the clear sapphire version.
However this has changed... the more occasions that I had a chance to see this novelty, the more I realise how special it is! Not only as it is a tribute to the original all black concept by Hublot which has its 10th anniversary this year, but the technical aspects of making this smoky black crystal (it is not an applied coating to the crystal as has been used in the past). I
I now realise it works for so many reasons, one big one is the ability to read the time! Lets face it, it is not easy at all on the full clear sapphire version or any of the original All Black's which unless in bright sunshine are not easy (but I am the first to point out to people that is what a cellphone is for!)! This one is a little better as the clear hands reflect the light and give contrast to the smoky black crystal... when I say little I mean a little but it is better in lower light.
It also wins on showcasing the lovely in-house Unico movement to its full, you really appreciate the contrast with the polished parts of the movement which you just don't see so much on the clear version.
My only other really positive comment to make is how fantastically finished and polished the case is, you get some cool reflections on it while walking around but not being too over the top. From a distance, you do not actually realise that it is crystal as it has the look of the black ceramic polished cases, it is only when you are close that you see how truly special it is. I am still amazed at the price they have been able to produce this and the clear Sapphire Unico.
For all the technical information, these can be found on Hublot's website
HERE.
What do you think?
Cheers
Andrew
This message has been edited by andrewluff on 2016-05-27 13:43:20