Skiing has never really been the most affordable of past-times, and that’s not even figuring the outfit one wears to stay warm, and of course stylish, for the after ski apero.

So it’s no wonder then that we see many luxury brands set up shop at some of the world’s most prestigious skiing destinations. Based in Geneva, Switzerland, the team here at Europa Star is no stranger to the Alps and their connection to watchmaking.

In fact, our very own Serge Maillard had a chance to take a hands-on look at the latest addition to the Hublot Big Bang collection, which looks to fuse luxury watchmaking with fashion at the Alps.

Fans of the brand will be well aware that the Big Bang has seen many iterations, despite the fact that the collection was launched just over ten years ago.

While the overall design of the collection has remained easily recognizable, the engineers and watchmakers at the manufacture have consistently added something new to the Big Bang.

This time around we have that in the form of the Big Bang Alps. The case and bezel feature a new frosted carbon look, which is formed from using small pieces of rock that give the illusion of granite.

As one of the most common materials found throughout the Alps, it was natural that it would inspire this strong looking limited edition series.

Launched at the famous Courchevel resort by brand CEO Ricardo Guadalupe, the new series features two models each released in 100 examples: a men’s 45 mm diameter version and a women’s 39 mm diameter version.

Taking a closer look at the men’s Big Bang Alps, the 45mm watch is powered by the brand’s famous Hublot calibre HUB1242 manufacture chronograph movement. Boasting a power reserve of 72 hours, it can be admired through the transparent sapphire case back and is made from frosted carbon like the bezel.

The smaller 39mm version is made from the same material and additionally features 42 sparkling diamonds totalling one carat set in the bezel. Its black microblasted ceramic and sapphire case back is engraved with the peak of the Matterhorn and houses the automatic HUB1710 movement, which has 50 hours power reserve.

What unites both models is the interchangeable “One Click” strap system, which allows the wearer to adapt the watch to suit their mood and surroundings by easily changing out the strap.

Each watch comes with a vintage ice blue calf strap with white stitching, but the showstopper option is the “Cuddly Cuff”, which is essentially an oversized cuff in warm shearling wool.

The warm and snuggly strap is definitely one of the most comfortable ways to wear a watch in the Alps. But that’s probably one of the few places where the watch should be seen in that shape and form.

Thankfully, the Big Bang has always been a versatile watch, and with a quick strap change to the blue calfskin strap, the watch becomes a statement piece fit for the urban jungle too.