The MP-09 series has been one of Hublot’s most interesting line of watches since they were released in 2017. After a while, companies tend to make multi-coloured versions of their lines and the more expensive the brands typically will achieve this through coloured stones. Hublot instead have done something more interesting (and shockingly in better taste) through the use of carbon.
Hublot are the king of gimmicks and the limited edition, but what if there were a watch that they put genuine thought and effort into? What if there was a watch that Hublot put out that innovated both internally and externally? The MP-09 Tourbillon Bi-Axis 5-Day Power Reserve may just be that watch, but it wouldn’t be a Hublot if it didn’t take a little inspiration from Audemars Piguet.
Comparing the MP-09 to the AP Offshore Music is a superficial comparison. Yes, the case shape is similar, but when isn’t a Hublot more than a little similar to an AP. Yes, both have coloured dots present, but again, this is superficial, they aren’t produced the same way and they don’t achieve the same effect. Other than that, they aren’t that similar.
For starters, you would be forgiven for thinking that the case is encrusted with coloured stones, much like the Offshore Music. This isn’t the case as instead Hublot have crafted a carbon case with coloured composite sticks placed within it. The sticks are placed within the carbon composite to create a block which the case is shaped out of like a block of marble.
Then once you get to the dial, everything is different. The main timekeeping sub-dial is up against 12 o’clock and 3 o’clock with a date wheel, divided into two parts, flowing alongside it. At 9 o’clock, you’ll find the power reserve indicator, which as Hublot is very proud of, can last up to five days. Outside the case at 9 o’clock is a switch to move the date forwards and backwards.
It’s the bi-axial tourbillon at 6 o’clock that really has our attention. The lower lugs of the Big Bang case has been almost removed entirely to fit a tourbillon cage rotating on two axis and “falling” from the main movement. It’s simply fascinating to look at.
Powering all this is Hublot’s own HUB9009.H1.RA.B, a manual wind movement. The reason that the movement has a five-day power reserve is because it only beats at 3hz (21,600bph). This slower rate does affect the visual appeal of the hands moving, but will you really care when you’re staring at that tourbillon most of the time?
The strap continues the colour gradient motif and many of you will be happy to know that it isn’t rubber. This time it’s multicoloured alligator leather secured by a stain-brushed titanium clasp.
Now the price is typical of Hublot, $294,000 ($211,000 USD)! Is it worth it? As there are only eight pieces made, for collectors it might be. However, with a price of almost $300k, one has to wonder if Hublot are taking a page out of Richard Mille’s playbook – outlandishly high prices and small unit numbers. This may be them taking a step in that direction, but it might also just be limited to this release alone. Time will tell.
At a Glance
Ref.: 909.QDRB.1120.LR
Size: 49mm
Case: Mat rainbow 3D carbon
Bezel: Mat rainbow 3D carbon
Water Resistance: 30m or 3 ATM
Crystal: Sapphire with anti-reflective treatment
Dial: Matte Black Dial
Movement: HUB9009.H1.RA Manufacture Manual-winding Tourbillon Bi-axis Skeleton Movement
Power Reserve: 120 hours
Strap: Rainbow alligator straps
Clasp: Stainless Steel Deployant Buckle Clasp
