Hublot
Introducing Hublot x Arturo Fuente Ceramic Big Bang Unico
Hublot
Introducing Hublot x Arturo Fuente Ceramic Big Bang Unico
The Low Down
Since 2012, Hublot and Arturo Fuente Cigars have collaborated on limited editions to celebrate the love of fine craftsmanship as well as support charitable initiatives to help the people in Dominican Republic through the Fuente Family Foundation.
This latest collaboration pays tribute to the remarkable story of legendary founder, Carlos A. Fuente Sr. His story is an emotional rollercoaster filled with hard work, great tragedy and, ultimately, perseverance to become a legend within the cigar industry.
Carlos Sr. set upon an ambitious plan to expand the business in other parts of Florida and then to New York City. The Fuente cigar company flourished in the 1960s until the United States embargo against Cuba forced the family to move their cigar production to Nicaragua. In 1978, Fuente factory was burned down by Sandinista revolutionaries. The Fuentes were forced into exile and moved their operations to Honduras. Tragedy struck again in 1980 when the new factory also burned down.
The Big Bang Unico Arturo Fuente Ceramic incorporates various aspects of the Fuente family with assistance from Fuente family’s designer, Manny Iriarte. The 44-mm ceramic case has an engraved pattern of the tobacco leaf, dancing to the rhythm of the mountain breeze, which is one of the key motifs for the Fuente family. Other key elements are the Roman numerals on the dial, taken from the clock that has historically appeared on the family crest. The crowned lion at 9 o’clock marks the brand’s status as the cigar supplier to the Spanish court and in honor of its great patriarch.
This special watch is limited to 100 pieces, and comes with a lacquered wooden gift box which can be used as a cigar humidor as well.
IMHO
I am personally excited to see this continued partnership between Hublot and the Fuente family. The fact that this Big Bang Ceramic is a tribute to Fuente Sr. makes it even more special for any cigar aficionado. I remember attending Big Smoke in Las Vegas since the early 2000’s and the endearing personality of Fuente Sr., which I can liken to Mr. Biver – both energized their respective industries and attracted folks from all walks of life.
One funny incident I still recall regarding Hublot and the Fuente family. It was 2014 or 2015, when I went with my good friend from Austin to Vegas for Big Smoke. I met Carlito Feunte at the show and as he autographed my OpusX cigar set with music CD by Arturo Sandoval, I pointed out, hey that’s the limited edition Hublot on your wrist. He laughed and said, “That’s right!”, and then immediately nodded to his security detail to stand closer to him. I found that amusing.
Hublot truly takes their collaborations seriously with the creativity left to the artist. They do not make just a namesake piece with a branded dial or an unimaginative plug for the collaborator. They let the artist create a vision, then work diligently to execute his/her vision in the way it was intended. Hublot accomplished just that with a fitting tribute to Fuente Sr.
Tech Specs
Hublot Big Bang Unico Arturo Fuente Ceramic (Ref. 421.CI.0190.VR.OPX21)
Movement: Hublot caliber HUB1280, UNICO 2 manufacture automatic flyback chronograph, 72-hour power reserve
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, flyback chronograph
Case: 44mm x 6.75mm, black ceramic, water resistant to 100 meters
Strap: Black rubber and black calf
Price: USD28,300
Availability: Limited edition of 100 pieces