MP at Hublot since 2009 has been synonymous with innovative designs and technical exploits, with highly complex manufacture movements. To date there are 13 in all, counting the latest, the MP-13, which combines a bi-axial tourbillon and a display with a bi-retrograde mechanism. The titanium case (44 x 16.7 mm) of the MP-13 Tourbillon Bi-Axis Bi-Retrograde features a new design, while retaining some of the stylistic codes of the Big Bang, such as the side inserts and the bezel with functional screws.
To offer maximum visibility to the beating heart of the watch, however, the bezel at the bottom extends downwards and opens to create a special showcase for the bi-axial tourbillon. Its skeletonised and suspended structure, without an upper bridge, is protected by sapphire glass on both sides. The first axis makes one complete rotation per minute, the second every 30 seconds. Two different speeds, creating an intriguing hypnotic game.
The display with its bi-retrograde mechanism for the hours and minutes, a first for Hublot, can be read from left to right. The indications are positioned on two concentric arcs at the top of the dial: the minutes on the outermost one, the hours on the innermost one on a sapphire disc that allows a glimpse of the skeleton of the movement.
Compared to the hour hand, the minute hand is longer and arrow-tipped. The latter moves steadily, while the hour hand jumps instantaneously from one number to another, thus facilitating the reading of hour indications.
Setting is simple, through the one-position winding crown: the minute setting automatically moves the hour hand. The movement is designed to be set forwards only, to avoid the accidental damage that retrograde movements caused by moving the hands backwards can cause.
As both complications require a lot of energy, the manual HUB6200 calibre boasts an important power reserve of 96 hours (4 days), displayed in the centre of the dial, below the hour indicator. The strap is in striped textured black rubber. This is a limited edition of 50 pieces.
Price165,000 euro.
