Introducing Hublot MP-09 Tourbillon Bi-Axis Rainbow 3D Carbon

Hublot has just unveiled MP-09 Tourbillon Bi-Axis Rainbow 3D Carbon (Ref.909.QDRB.1120.LR), limited to just eight pieces. 

As the name suggests, the new model seeks to achieve the rainbow effect of coloured gemstones. For this, Hublot has used carbon and composites instead of gemstones. 

An Optical Illusion

In the conventional technique, stones that have already been formed over millions of years are chosen and then assembled in keeping with their colours. 

Usually, the rainbow effect is created with the help of diamonds, rubies, sapphires, emeralds and so on. But Hublot has pushed the envelope with an entire ‘prism of infinite shades’ to recreate the brilliance of gemstones. And how has the brand achieved this feat? By setting hundreds of coloured inserts on the carbon case of the brand new Hublot MP-09 Tourbillon Bi-Axis Rainbow 3D Carbon.

In essence, the case is braided. Thin bars of carbon are laid flat, each a few millimetres apart. Following that, bars of coloured composites are placed vertically into the gaps and they are seen slightly protruding from the carbon. 

To attain the end result, loads of coloured inserts needed to be created. As our eyes spontaneously combine them to get a harmonious and natural gradation, we can witness a delightful optical illusion. In fact, Hublot had to expand a complete prism of countless shades to simulate the brilliance of gemstones – this is definitely a first in watchmaking. 

The colour of each insert darkens slightly because it is set inside the carbon. This had to be kept in mind while developing them. Another challenge was to put each composite in its proper place so that the rainbow effect seemed uninterrupted. 

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All about Movement

MP-09 retains the calibre that has been its beating heart since its inception: the HUB 9009.H1.RIB movement with guide winding and a five-day power reserve. It comes with a bi-axial tourbillon with one entire rotation in line with a minute for the primary axis and a 2d rotation, each 30 seconds for the second axis. This unique double rotation has guided the design of the case with curved sides, sporting the tourbillon at 6 o'clock. There's an electricity reserve indicator at 9 o’clock, together with an off-centre subdial.

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The new Hublot watch is paired with an eye-catching, rainbow-coloured alligator strap with a stainless steel deployant buckle clasp.

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