The innovative brand released two limited edition series to high praise at SIHH 2016 - the Big Bang 41mm Broderie Sugar Skull and the Big Bang 41mm Broderie. They are the perfect examples of “art fusion” in watchmaking.

When we talk about innovation in the watch world these days, more often than not we talk about the novelties brought by smartwatches. And if we are in the mechanical world, innovation usually refers to the use of composite materials, making watches lighter and stronger.

Hublot’s new timepiece, the Big Bang 41mm Broderie Sugar Skull is also an example of “innovation”, but quite a different kind. And while this watch will not keep you connected in the smartwatch sense, it is certainly an example of how distinct art forms are connected in a beautiful timepieces.

Incorporating composite resin, carbon and ceramic, as well as borrowed denim and fine embroidery, this new watch is all about fusion. The result is a symbol of confident femininity and glamour, by blending different forms of Swiss expertise through outside the box thinking.

It’s not always that embroidery is taken away from its traditional bonds in haute couture and brought into the world of timekeeping. In doing so, Hublot has turned to the master of Swiss embroidery, award winning lingerie house Bischoff. Bischoff’s master craftsmen prepared the silk organza embroidery of floral arabesques, which reveal the intricate motif on the dial. It comes in two distinct, yet equally impressive patterns.

The first is found on the Big Bang Broderie 41mm. Evoking the look of fine lingerie, the lace pattern overflows from the dial onto the bezel and the strap.

The more daring alternative is the Big Bang Broderie Sugar Skull 41 mm, which takes its inspiration from the lines on the catwalks with its skull motif. The case is enhanced either by 36 pink sapphires, or the cat’s eye effect using red gold and 36 blue sapphires.

With its two new limited edition series, Hublot has taken the fine craft of embroidery away from the fashion world and used it to adorn its iconic Big Bang. Perhaps more importantly, the Swiss manufacturer has demonstrated that innovation can also be found well within the boundaries of tradition, and still remain no less impressive.