SocialMedia Network’s CEO, Seth Goldstein, made a rather audacious statement at the IAB Social Media conference today: “Social Media is killing internet advertising”.

This gives a good idea of how social media change the way marketing works on the internet and how we don't address people the same way on Facebook than on traditional websites (advertising loudness). A chart of the evolution of online advertising is quite interesting in that perspective.

Besides, an article (in French) describes how Hublot (Swiss watch brand) entered Second Life and how marketing on a virtual island is not always a success if you really didn't think about the concept...
After a year of presence on Second Life, the journalist's report about Hublot's virtual position is not very positive. Obviously the watch industry's First Life is a lot more exciting than its Second One :-)

One last link : seven tips to succeed with advertising campaign on the web (in French)

La marque est le plus petit sponsor du futur Euro 2008, organisé conjointement par la Suisse et l'Autriche. En face de marques comme Coca-Cola, Adidas ou Mc Donald, le petit fabricant à choisi d'innover pour faire parler de lui : bien qu'il les ait achetés, il n'utilisera pas les panneaux publicitaires au bord du terrain !

Hublot à choisi de les offrir à la cause de la lutte contre le racisme. Ce sera donc "Unit against racism" qui s'affichera sur la pelouse. Etonnant, non ?

Et pourtant, le coup est finement joué, et les résultats sont déjà là : le buzz médiatique fonctionne à fond. La preuve j'en parle ici. Et Hublot profite tout de même pleinement de sa licence "Euro 2008", en préparant une série de produits brandés, et en fournissant les arbitres de la compétition avec une montre spéciale, dont le cadran fait 45 minutes.

Quand on a des petits moyens, il faut être malin !

PS : petits moyens... tout est relatif. Hublot appartient quand même au groupe LVMH, et doit donc bénéficier de bons appuis en statégie marketing !

"LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton agreed to acquire Geneva-based watchmaker, the Hublot group, for an undisclosed amount, from Hublot’s founder Carlo Crocco and a company controlled by Jean-Claude Biver. The Hublot brand joins other watch brands in the LVMH portfolio including TAG Heuer, Zenith, Dior Montres, Louis Vuitton watches and the watch collections of jewelers Chaumet and Fred." as stated in the Rappaport Weekly News Letter.

This is an interesting development: It shows that the large groups (LVMH is the largest luxury group out there) are still 'hungry' to buy up any independent watch companies. It also shows that the luxury groups strongly believe in this industry.

I don't know if we need to congratulate Mr. Crocco, who founded the company only 1980 and handed the reigns to the 'whiz kid' Biver (former CEO of Omega and Blancpain) in 2004. In 2004 Biver announced that he would blow up the Hublot brand... Indeed, he created the Big Bang watch, but apparently he succieded...

Hereby the official press release of LVMH:

"LVMH acquires the Swiss watchmaker Hublot

Paris, 24 April 2008

LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton, the world’s leading luxury group, announces that it has signed an agreement to acquire the Hublot group, a top of the range watchmaker enjoying very strong growth.

LVMH will acquire Hublot from Mr Carlo Crocco, who founded the group in 1980, and a company controlled by Mr Jean-Claude Biver, who has managed Hublot since 2004.

Hublot is a brand that is highly complementary to LVMH’s existing watch portfolio comprising TAG Heuer, the world leader in prestigious sport watches and chronographs, the Swiss Watch Manufacturer Zenith, Dior Montres, Louis Vuitton watches sold exclusively in Louis Vuitton stores, and the watch collections of jewellers Chaumet, Fred and De Beers.

STRONG GROWTH POTENTIAL
Hublot, which has its headquarters and workshops near Geneva, has started building a factory at Nyon to accommodate its expansion plans. Having grown at a rapid pace since 2004, the brand achieved net revenue of more than CHF150 million in 2007 with an excellent profitability. A very significant increase in revenue is expected in 2008.

Today, Hublot has a very selective and efficient distribution network which is limited to 300 stores worldwide.

Hublot has a well-balanced geographic footprint spanning Switzerland, Spain, France, Germany, the US, Latin America, Middle East, Russia, Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore… The brand has recently been launched in China and India and has strong growth potential in Asia, Japan, North America and in certain European markets.

EXCEPTIONAL WATCHES AND CHRONOGRAPHS
Hublot offers ranges of exceptional quality watches that are innovative, very differentiated and combining fusions of materials, precious metals, (gold, platinum,…) technological metals (titanium, tantalum…), ceramics, diamonds and natural rubber.

The renowned Big Bang collection includes models equipped with automatic movements whose prices range from €8,000 (steel and ceramic) to over €300,000, integrating precious metals and technical complexity.
A new Big Bang collection for women was launched at the last Basel watch fair with great success.

Finally, the traditional classic line has been recently redesigned using natural rubber, zircon, gold and ceramics.

Carlo Crocco, founder of Hublot, said : “I am happy that Hublot, an innovative brand since is creation, is joining the LVMH group, the world leader in luxury goods, whose creative passion is without any doubt a value that I have always shared.”

Jean-Claude Biver, the architect of the success of the Big Bang collection and the recent strong growth of Hublot, commented: “I am delighted that Hublot will be able to benefit from LVMH’s support and strategic  leadership in the luxury goods industry and so maximise its growth potential in the years to come. I am happy to be pursuing this adventure and to be able to contribute to the development of LVMH’s watchmaking division alongside Philippe Pascal.”

Philippe Pascal, Chief Executive Officer of LVMH’s Watches & Jewelry business group, added: “Hublot is a strategic and very complementary acquisition. Its high-end positioning, selective distribution, financial performance and growth potential make Hublot a ‘rising star’. Hublot will strengthen our Watches & Jewelry business group which, over the last three years, has been growing strongly. We are very happy that Jean-Claude Biver will, along with the management team of Hublot, continue on this remarkable journey and contribute his considerable expertise to our development in this promising sector.”

I started out my day with a customer who had a ladies Hublot wristwatch which needed a new power cell. I recommended a water test as I usually do with water resistant watches and they agreed that it was a good idea. Upon removing the case back I noticed that the unusually shaped gasket was deformed. I was going to have to replace it. I looked up Hublot's phone number on the internet and gave them a call. I got the usual reception that I get from a higher end brand. I'm sorry we do not sell parts unless you are an authorized retailer who has received our training. I explained my credentials but they wouldn't budge, the watch would need to go to their service center.

The nearest authorized retailer is 400 miles away and their service center is in Florida. The customer needs a battery and a gasket and they have to send their watch insured hundreds (or thousands) of miles away so they can get it a new battery and a gasket. What kind of customer service is that? I called back and asked for more details. If it needed a complete service it would probably cost over $300. They may do less but without a guarantee and their current turn around time is about 6 to 8 weeks. All I can say is I'm glad it's not my watch.

Before buying your next watch you might consider the companies spare parts and service policies. If you don't know if your watchmaker would be able to service it, give him/her a call.

If you like what you read here, please feel free to donate.

Luxus-Armbanduhr:
mit Wert-Gutachten / Echtheits-Zertifikat

Original Hublot MDM Geneve :

Größe:  Herren-Armband-Uhr

Uhr-Typ:  Chronograph Sport

Typnummer:  1621.2

Seriennummer:  277206

Gehäuse:  Edelstahl / Gelbgold 18 Karat / 750

Band / Schließe:  Kautschuk Armband

    mit Faltschließe

    Edelstahl / Gelbgold 18 Karat / 750

    beides original

Uhr-Werk:  Quarz / Quartz

Anzeige von Stunde, Minute, dezentraler Sekunde, Sekundenstopp

Datums-Anzeige mit Schnell-Datumseinstellung

Chronograph (mit Zwischenstoppung)

    extra Sekunden-, 30-Minuten-, 12-Stunden-Zähler

Safirglas / Saphirglas / Mineralglas

Zifferblatt:  schwarz, spezial-mattiert

    mit goldener Schrift

    Innenring mit zusätzlicher 1/5-Sekunden-Skala

    Leuchtpunkte, Leucht-Zeiger

Mattierte Gold-Lünette

    schwarze gravierte Tachymeter-Skala

Gehäusebreite (mit Krone):  39,3 mm

Gehäusebreite (ohne Krone):  37,1 mm

Bandbreite:  18 mm

Gesamthöhe inkl. Glas und Rückdeckel:  NUR 9,2 mm

für Armumfang bis zu 17,5 cm

Uhrenbox / Verpackung vorhanden

    sehr exklusiv / repräsentativ und groß

    in lackiertem Edelholz

Massiver Überkarton vorhanden

Alle Funktionen intakt,  wasserdicht

Erhaltung:  absolut neuwertig

    keinerlei Kratzer oder ähnliches

    lag anscheinend als Geldanlage fast nur im Tresor

    sieht fast aus wie neu gekauft

    nur minimalste praktisch unsichtbare Tragespuren

    in diesem neuwertigen Zustand sehr selten zu bekommen

Echtheit und Wert:

Neues Echtheits-Zertifikat / Wert-Gutachten ist vorhanden

    und wird mitgeliefert (als ausführlicher Laborbericht,

    gerichtsverwertbar und von Versicherungen anerkannt).

unverbindliche Preisempfehlung laut Gutachten:

4.470 Euro  (Preisliste Mai 2002)

Bei älteren Preislisten oder bei älterem Preis-Stand ist zu

berücksichtigen, dass der Artikel inzwischen einen höheren Wert hat

durch die üblichen laufenden Preiserhöhungen der Hersteller.

zur Original-Seite mit allen Informationen über:

HUBLOT MDM CHRONOGRAPH SPORT STAHLGOLD KAUTSCHUK 4.470 Euro

www.juwelenmarkt.de:  Informationen und Gelegenheiten

Schmuck und Diamanten und Luxus-Armband-Uhren

Gewerbegruppe Gunar Mayer Fahrner GmbH

Gesellschaftssitz Brunnthal    Geschäftsführer: Gunar Mayer

Lärchenstr.14    85649 Brunnthal

Telefon: 08104-88899-25    Fax: -24    1@ggm1.de

Handelsregister B Amtsgericht München HRB 159434

Steuernr.: 143/140/80026    UID-Nr.: DE814570759

 

weitere Domains mit interessantem Schmuck, Diamanten, Uhren: http://www.brilliant-ankauf.eu http://www.ohrringe-ohrstecker.de http://www.diamantarmbaender.de http://www.juwelier-24.com http://www.topjuwelen.de http://www.juwelier-24.de http://www.diamantuhren.de http://www.goldankauf-24.de http://www.juwelenverkauf.de http://www.onlineverkauf.eu

The new timepiece is the second model of the brand dedicated to polo, following the one introduced in 2007 to mark the partnership with the Saint-Tropez Polo Club. The Big Bang Polo Club Gstaad has been developed in a limited number of 250 pieces. It represents a black ceramic chronograph with the Gstaad tournament logo on its dial. It features the 'Big Bang' case, 44.5 mm in diameter, 100-meter water-resistant; a black ceramic bezel fitted with titanium H-shaped screws; sapphire crystal provided with double face anti-reflection treatment; reinforced black resin bezel lug and lateral inserts.

The stamped carbon dial of the Big Bang Polo Club Gstaad has vertical satin-finish in ruthenium color. It displays appliques indexes, faceted hands with luminescent features, and ruthenium-colored chronograph hands with H-shaped counterpoise. Notice the trapezoidal aperture located at 4:30 displays the date.

The Hublot Big Bang is equipped with a mechanical chronograph movement with automatic winding developed together with La Joux-Perret. It offers 42-hour power reserve. The masculinity of the watch is enhanced with an adjustable black rubber strap.

En ambiente claramente premonitorio, pequeños cambios se suceden y anuncian la tempestad de mudanzas que se avecina. Nuevo lugar para desayunar. Márketing de comida sana como envoltorio para los mismos productos de la pastelería industrial. Nos atrajo al lugar un tríptico que prometía zumo gratis a modo de oferta de inauguración. Resulta ser de mango y naranja.

Solitaria dama de apariencia británica teclea animadamente en su computadora portátil. Inicia animada charla por el mancuentro. En inglés. Se confirma por la vía de la expresión la sospecha desatada por el aspecto. Dudé hasta el último momento en lo que respecta al título de éste apunte. Bien pudo llamarse La conquista de Lady Laptop.

[Anticipándome a las protestas a cuenta del mancuentro... El teléfono móvil, el celular, queridas amigas del otro lado. En la vieja y profunda España es muy habitual escuchar los gritos de los profesionales liberales en plena calle, asegurando "mancuentro en este momento en la calle Príncipe de Vergara... tú aonde estás, desgraciao?"]

En el camino de vuelta al oscuro mundo de la función pública se confirma el desastre. No hace mucho que fantaseé imaginando a Madame Hublot como una competentísima y cotizadísima especialista de los mercados de capitales. Sin embargo, la corporación que ocupa el edificio en el que ella trabaja opera, mediante dos filiales del mismo grupo empresarial, en las altas finanzas y en la venta de propiedades en la costa.

Encontramos a nuestra bella y admirada Madame despidiendo cordialmente a un aparente candidato a inversor en ladrillo. Cruel desilusión, parece trabajar en planta calle justo detrás de las maquetas de complejos residenciales primera línea playa visite piso piloto. Para ser completamente justos, dejemos constancia de que nada de esto resta esplendor a la hermosa dama.

Se nos caen, no obstante, los palos del sombrajo. Ponemos toda esperanza en la perspectiva de que Lady Laptop no falte a la cita de mañana. Veinticuatro horas de suspense.

Tarde o temprano tenía que ocurrir. Su acto de presencia matinal de hoy ha cambiado profundamente la tendencia. En lugar de acudir al café como integrante del grupito de hermosísimas damas, se ha presentado acompañada por petimetre trajeado. Un beso furtivo, casi esquivado por ella, su beneficiaria, ha puesto de manifiesto la situación. Pocos minutos después llega el citado grupo femenino. Acomódase el clan en la mesa de al lado. Discreción. Las aguas vuelven a su cauce.

Pero el mal está hecho. Crudelísima desilusión.

Et pour rester sérieux 5mn, voici le monstre des toilettes :

Indispensable sans doute, en vente ici pour $17.89 donc un peu beaucoup moins en zeuros, c'est donné.

La gran ventaja del retrato frente a la fotografía consiste en la enorme libertad de la que el autor dispone para situar a la modelo donde y como se le antoje. Por ejemplo, aquí pueden verla envuelta en las sábanas de mi cama, fumando satisfecha el cigarrito de después.

De ilusión también se vive. Malamente, pero menos es nada.

¿Se dieron cuenta? No se quita el reloj ni para el mundano deleite.

Con la violencia del muelle que se sale de su apoyo y salta libre hacia su máxima extensión, inundan mi buzón en defensa de la hermosa dama los mensajes de unos cuantos aprendices de analista. Como ya habíamos intuido sin necesidad de esperar a los veinte mensajes recibidos, el coche puede ser propiedad de la empresa, o de un amigo o familiar, o alquilado, o mil cosas diferentes.

Alguno hace especulaciones, asegurando que su automóvil de verdad es un Alfa Romeo. Otro va más allá y convoca un concurso de apuestas informales, de esos que en España se conocen como porras, en busca del beneficio económico que le producirá adivinar la marca del coche.

Se nota -y me consta- que todos los que opinan son hombres y españoles. ¿Por qué? Porque ninguno se ha atrevido a comentar nada de esto en público, parapetándose detrás de la promesa -nunca hasta ahora quebrantada- de no revelar fuentes salvo requerimiento judicial. Es ese hispánico sentido del ridículo que nos priva de los bonitos pantalones de cuadros, en azul eléctrico y amarillo chillón, que alegremente lucen los estadounidenses en las mejores ocasiones.

En fin, al tema.

Nudo

No es justo condenar al olvido a la hermosa Madame Hublot por la simple elección de auto, que puede ser forzada o accidental. Y tampoco es práctico, porque es previsible que sigamos coincidiendo cada mañana en el momento y lugar del tentempié. El desayuno, para quienes no son del lugar. No pasará desapercibida su sonora risa. Llamará la atención sobremanera la animada conversación de las tres o cuatro bellezas habituales del grupo. Desesperará su absoluta falta de interés en nuestras cada vez más frecuentes y embobadas miradas.

Sin embargo, toda esta fantasía se verá sometida a la prueba definitiva en las próximas fechas. Estaré fuera de la oficina hasta el final de la próxima semana, faltando varios días a la habitual cita cafetera. Cuánto me gustaría que las faltas de asistencia llamaran su atención, motivando alguna receptividad hacia el intento de contacto que, casi con toda seguridad, se producirá a la vuelta. El riesgo de ser rechazado y quedar desencantado no es pequeño, pero esto importa poco si la alternativa es el olvido, la indiferencia, la ausencia de noción de la existencia del nutrido club de fans en el que participo.

Revisando el detalle del [des]encuentro de ayer, vienen a mi memoria dos frases sucesivas. Una dicha en nuestra mesa, planeando una juerga nocturna con visita al casino, y otra procedente de la mesa de las bellezas, y escuchada involuntariamente por causa del elevado, desenfadado y peculiar tono de voz de la contundente Madame Hublot.

"Panda de carcamales" -afirma resuelta, entre sus propias risas y las de sus compañeras.

No es posible relacionar una situación con la otra, ni hay certeza de que el comentario nos tenga como objetivo. Pero, por si acaso, se impone la necesidad de establecer contacto aunque solo sea para intentar intercambiar información sobre identidades, edades y filiaciones. Se extremará la precaución, e incluso se ensayará cuidadosamente el movimiento antes de bajar a la cafetería para no ofender, molestar o interrumpir. Y para no caer en el más espantoso de los ridículos, solamente comparable a una hipotética puesta en escena luciendo llamativos pantalones de cuadros.

Desenlace

Como si lo viera. Al contemplar esta patética situación, mis nuevas y bienvenidas lectoras del otro lado de la mar oceana están en estos momentos gritando a coro desde allá:

"Vos sos un boludo"

Razón no les faltará.

De carácter aparentemente extrovertido, verbo fácil, acento de Sevilla no disimulado, risa sonora, en todo momento alegre y desenfadada. En definitiva, un verdadero bombón del sur. Sufrí hace muchos años el tórrido y tormentoso influjo del hechizo de una sevillana cascabelera, así que no lo duden. Sé de qué estoy fantaseando.

Por casualidad encontramos una vez al grupo fumando -algún defecto tenía que tener- en la puerta de un edificio cercano, deduciéndose del contexto que trabajan en un grupo de empresas que se dedica al inmobiliario vacacional y a la banca de negocios, es decir, a la de los ricos. Ignoramos si su ocupación está relacionada con uno o el otro sector.

Viste informal sin excesos, negro con notas de colores muy vivos, siempre elegante. La nota sorprendente, oportunamente detectada por mi compañero de fatigas ministeriales y terror de los casinos, es un carísimo reloj Hublot de ultimísima moda que adorna su muñeca. El precio en las subastas de Internet nunca baja de mil quinientos euros. En la exclusiva tienda de la calle Serrano no puedes encontrar uno por menos de tres mil euros.

¿Puede una chica de su edad y condición permitirse un lujo como éste? ¿Qué nivel de enamoramiento sufre y padece el anónimo afortunado o desgraciado que, en otro caso, ha adornado su muñeca favorita con semejante derroche de lujo y glamour?

Ya no paramos de fantasear con los favores de una mujer tan excepcional, y tan excepcionalmente tratada. Sólo fantasías, porque nuestro poder adquisitivo apenas da para un Casio con cientos de funciones y miles de colorines. Madame Hublot parece haber conquistado a alguien de entidad. En otro caso, es tal la intensidad amatoria que el pobre diablo se ha visto empujado al empeño de sus bienes para quedar como un señor con semejante hermosura andaluza.

Pero el final de la historia es amargo, como pueden imaginar. Hoy ha terminado bruscamente la fantasía, sorprendida la dama cuando salía de un garaje cercano conduciendo un anodino Renault Megane de color gris. Tal ha sido la desilusión que hemos dado la cuestión por zanjada sin dudarlo un momento. Es, en nuestra experta opinión, chica de New Beetle o de Mini Cooper, ambos de riguroso diseño y absoluta exclusividad.

No hace juego mujer tan distinguida con automóvil tan corriente. N'est pas de pas, mon chou chou.

Zwei Marken stachen für mich aus diesem trüben Vielerlei heraus, und ich bin dabei, mich eingehender mit ihnen zu beschäftigen:
1.
Hublot mit der neueren, durch Jean-Claude Biver angestoßenen Entwicklung und der spektakulären Big Bang. Den Beitrag dazu habe ich gestern ins ZEITGEFÜHL eingestellt. Der Big Bang Chronograph schrammt leicht an meiner oben geäußerten Kritik vorbei, denn auch er weist etliche Merkmale von Zeitgeist-Tam-Tam und Schnellebigkeit auf, aber er hat eben auch noch einiges mehr zu bieten, ein interessantes dahinterstehendes Konzept (Fusion), einen genialen Uhrenkenner und gestandenen Vermarktungsfachmann (Biver) - je länger man sich mit dieser unverwechselbaren, kecken Uhrenkreation befaßt, desto mehr lernt man dabei und bekommt so auch für sich selbst wieder etwas heraus (was z.B. bei den immer gleichen, unendlich öden und einfallslosen Testimonial-Kampagnen nie und nimmer der Fall sein kann).

2.
Erhard Junghans mit den neuen mechanischen Modellen, einem astreinen Unterfangen klassischer Mechanik. Die Unterlagen habe ich bereits erhalten, und mir gefällt daran v.a. der zurückhaltende, feinsinnige Stil, der alte Firmentradition mit neuen Ideen mutig verbindet. Denn alles, was heute noch zurückhaltend und feinsinnig daherkommt, ist bei der abgestumpften Masse schon einmal auf aussichtsloser Position; nur bestimmte Kenner und Feinschmecker mit besseren, sensibleren Nerven werden hier ansprechen und genauer hinschauen. Das ist also genau meine ganz private Wellenlänge.

Ganz gleich, was aus EganaGoldpfeil werden wird (in Hongkong toben wohl gerade die Kreditverhandlungen) - Marken wie Erhard Junghans (und Junghans überhaupt) werden immer standhalten, weil in ihnen Werte geschaffen werden, und zwar nicht nur materielle, sondern auch ideelle (und sogar spirituelle) Werte. Dies ist, wie bei Biver mit Blancpain und Big Bang / Fusion, immer der Ausgangspunkt, so entstehen Marken, so wird Uhrengeschichte geschrieben, und das wissen auch die Investoren ganz genau.

Hublot positively reaffirms the links that it has constantly forged with the sea and yachting. As a long-standing partner and friend of the prestigious Yacht Club of Monaco, the Swiss watchmaker is participating from 12 to 16 September in the 8th Monaco Classic Week. This provides an occasion for the Swiss watchmaker and the Monaco Club to strengthen their relations and share moments dedicated to their common values.

To open the celebrations, it will be on board Tuiga, the flagship of the Yacht Club of Monaco, that Jean-Claude Biver presents the third version of the Big Bang created in its honour to the general public and the media on Thursday evening. The reception takes place on this legendary boat, a 15-metre JI class built by William Fife and restored in 1993, which is moored in front of the Yacht Club amongst a fleet of traditional yachts. It is without doubt a signal honour for Hublot to reveal its latest model in such an exceptional setting! Following the success of the two Big Bang models already created in honour of Tuiga, this new chronograph is impatiently awaited. It will be made even more avant-garde and exclusive by its choice of original materials, Tantalum and Ceramic. This grey-blue metal is highly resistant to corrosion, very hard and rarer than gold. With ceramic and rubber it forms the perfect match for the marine world. The red pennants of the Yacht Club of Monaco appear on the watch dial at 09:00, discreet but clearly recognisable on the uniform grey face. In the high-tech finish we find all the craft of the traditional watchmaker and the new Tuiga icon in its singular Big Bang design is a perfect representation of the fusion between the past and the future, between natural elements and refinement of materials. For the first time since the creation of these models, they will be offered to members of the Yacht Club, allowing them to reserve a personalised watch engraved with their initials.

As the Official Timekeeper of the Yacht Club of Monaco – as well as because it holds great respect for tradition, driven by passion and the constant quest for innovation – during the Classic Week Hublot presents awards for distinction in different categories:

* the Personality of the Sea 2007, for distinguished actions in the field of protection of the sea and the environment
* the owner-member of la Belle Classe that has most successfully restored his yacht, honouring and passing on the maritime heritage
* the various winners of the Monaco Classic Week 2007 races

A jury comprising personalities from the nautical world, together with many prestigious guests, is participating in this exceptional nautical gathering, in a setting dear to Hublot.

* “Big Bang” diameter 44.5 mm in tantalum, colourless PVD coating
* Bezel : Black ceramic, satin-finish surface, knurled edge, 6 titanium H-shaped screws, sunken, polished and blocked
* Crystal : Sapphire with interior anti-reflection treatment
* Bezel Lug : Black composite resin
* Lateral inserts : Black composite resin with YCM logo at 9 o’clock
* Back : Microblasted tantalum with sapphire crystal, interior anti-reflection treatment, reproduction of flagship yacht and MYC flags
* Crown : Satin-finish steel with natural black rubber insert
* Push-pieces : Satin-finish steel, rectangular with natural black rubber insert
* Screws : Titanium
* Water-resistance : 100 m or 10 ATM
* Dial Matt black with ruthenium numerals and appliqué index markers
* Hublot logo : at 12 o’clock
* “Yacht Club Monaco” logo : On counter at 9 o’clock
* Hands : Faceted, sand-blasted ruthenium with black luminescent feature, chronograph hand with H-shaped counterpoise
* Movement : Mechanical chronograph with automatic winding Hublot HUB44 calibre developed in conjunction with La Joux-Perret
* No. of components : 252
* Rubies : 27
* Bridges : Polished, satin-finished with chamfered edges
* Screws : Black PVD
* Calendar : Trapezoid aperture at 4.30
* Oscillating weight : Tungsten carbide with dimpled surface treatment in black PVD
* Bottom plate : Sand-blasted rhodium-plated
* Barrel : With reinforced spring
* Escapement : Glucydur balance spring
* Power Reserve : 42 hours
* Strap : Adjustable natural black rubber strap, striped on outside edge with Hublot logo, MYC flags on inside surface of attachment between buckle and bracelet
* Clasp : Black PVD-coated steel, solid tantalum plate decoration
* Limited edition : 500 individually numbered pieces 01/500 – 500/500

Source

Hublot is to present an exclusive, unheard-of concept in the shape of its new Mag Bang. Not only is it the first time that a case and movement are being made in the same material and finish, but another world premiere is the use of Hublonium for each component! The whole piece is made entirely 'in-house' at Hublot.

The watchmaking house has developed this unique material by fusing magnesium and aluminium, among other things, to shed weight, while remaining robust, flexible and functional. It has called in specialists at the top of their game to design its movements and manufacture its bottom plates and bridges. And in order to fashion them, Hublot has equipped itself with new high-tech machinery.

Constantly in search of innovation, Hublot has just succeeded in a challenge that gives it a certain autonomy. The perfect coherence of the watch is expressed in the 3 Ms of its design: 'mono-material, monochrome, microblasted'. The uniform, matt finish, to which the microblasted finish lends a very special radiance, can be found in the components both inside and out, which is what helps to make this model an exceptional work of art.

The incredible performance achieved by Hublot represents the culmination of state-of-the-art research fused with traditional watchmaking skills and avant-garde technology. The Geneva watchmaking house has thus designed a new Big Bang true to its history of pure design and raw lines. And in order to acquire added weightlessness and greater harmony, innovation can even be seen right down to the strap's buckle, which is fashioned in the same material as the movement and the case!

Toiling away behind the scenes on this achievement are a number of exceptional, experienced craftsmen, such as René Maillefer, Cédric Grandperret and Fausto Berizzi, men who have joined forces with Hublot in the research and development of new calibres. They share the skills, the dynamism and the energy required for the innovation, as well as a passion for the watchmaker's art. These men and their values have made it possible to achieve what is a tremendous world premiere in the world of watchmaking.

* “Big Bang” diameter 44.5 mm in Hublonium
* Bezel : Hublonium with 6 H-shaped titanium screws, sunken, polished and blocked
* Crystal : Sapphire crystal with anti-reflection treatment, double face
* Bezel lugs : Black composite resin
* Side Inserts : Black composite resin
* Back : Titanium with sapphire crystal
* Crown : Steel with natural black rubber insert
* Push-pieces : Rectangular steel with natural black rubber insert
* Water-resistance : 100 m. or 10 ATM
* Dial : Titanium colour with vertical satin-finish rhodium-plated applique indices
* Hands : Faceted rhodium-plated with luminescent feature
* Mechanical chronograph with automatic winding
* Calibre Hublot : HUB44 developed in conjunction with La Joux-Perret
* No. of parts : 255
* Rubies : 27
* Bridges : Hublonium
* Screws : Black PVD
* Calendar : Trapezoid aperture at 4.30
* Oscillating weight : Titanium with dimpled surface treated in black PVD
* Bottom plate : Hublonium
* Barrel : With reinforced spring
* Escapement : Glucydur balance spring
* Power reserve : 42 hours
* Strap : Natural smooth rubber with engraved Hublot logo
* Clasp : Simple Ardillon buckle 2 loops, in Hublonium
* Limited Edition : 250 pieces individually numbered from 01/250 to 250/250
* Total weight : 78 g

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The famous Big Bang All Black is the model that provided the inspiration for Hublot and the Ayrton Senna Institute and their creation bearing the driver's name. This sophisticated black watch is composed of similar materials to those used in the automotive industry, and executed with attention down to the last detail in the search for the ultimate performance. State-of-the-art technology, painstaking care, the quest for avant-garde design and the perfect finish are all common factors that lead to success. The distinguishing features of the Ayrton Senna watch, aside from the champion's signature splashed across the dial in red, are the Chronograph Split-Second hand and the Power Reserve Indicator. The Split-Second hand can be used to record an intermediate time by means of the two chronograph seconds hands. When recording a time, the first so-called "Split-Second" hand is stopped while the second continues to move. This mechanism makes it possible to observe the lapsed period. Then, by pressing the push-piece a second time, the hand is made to catch up with and remain superposed on the seconds hand. The function can be used to calculate the intermediate time of one runner, or the times of two runners. Personalised touches to this exceptional timepiece include the Split-Second hand cloaked in green and yellow, the colours of Brazil, and the push-piece in red to co-ordinate with the signature of Ayrton Senna displayed on the dial.

The Ayrton Senna Big Bang is the first Hublot to go on sale in Brazil. The Brazilian market is a new one for the brand, and the exclusivity of the first 50 pieces is reserved for distribution in Sao Paulo, the country's economic capital. Rio de Janeiro, Porto Alegre and Brasilia will subsequently cater to Big Bang demand among the Brazilian clientele. The new market undoubtedly already includes many enthusiasts and (knowing) connoisseurs of the Big Bang's contemporary, sophisticated and distinctive design, as well as the refined quality of its manufacture in accordance with watchmaking tradition.

* “Big Bang” diameter 44.5 mm in polished black ceramic, satin-finish fittings
* Bezel : Satin-finish black ceramic with 6 H-shaped titanium screws, sunken, polished and blocked
* Crystal : Sapphire with interior/exterior anti-reflection treatment, stamp with Ayrton Senna Foundation logo
* Bezel lug : Black composite resin
* Lateral inserts : Black composite resin
* Back : Titanium with sapphire crystal, interior anti-reflection treatment
* Crown : Steel with natural black rubber insert
* Start/Stop push-piece : Steel, oblong with red lacquer insert
* Reset to zero push-piece : Steel, rectangular with natural black rubber insert
* Water-resistance : 100 m or 10 ATM
* Dial : Matt black with shiny black applique indices and numerals
* Hublot logo : Shiny black, at 12 noon Ayrton Senna signature Red, in the 3rd quadrant
* Power Reserve Indicator : In the 3rd quadrant
* Hands : Faceted, diamond-polished, shiny black, black chronograph hand with H-shaped counterweight, black, green and yellow Split-Second hand.
* Mechanical Chronograph Fly-back with automatic winding, Calibre Hublot HUB44 RT developed in conjunction with La Joux-Perret
* Bridges : Satin-finish, chamfered, polished
* Oscillating weight : Tungsten carbide with dimpled surface treated in black PVD Bottom plate Sand-blasted, rhodium-plated
* Barrel : With reinforced spring
* Escapement : Glucydur balance spring
* Power Reserve : 42 hours
* Adjustable natural smooth black rubber with Hublot logo. Beneath the strap at 12 o’clock, AYRTON SENNA signature in yellow on a green stripe
* Deployant clasp in black PVD coated steel
* Limited edition of 500 individually numbered pieces 01/500 – 500/500

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Bref, la question n'est pas là. Aujourd'hui, Hublot vient de célébrer l'ouverture de son "île" dans le jeu en ligne virtuel Second life. Hublot prend le train en marche lancé par de nombreuses marques du domaine du luxe ou d'ailleurs.

D'autres marques se sont aventurées dans Second Life, et l'on peut certainement se poser des questions sur les retombées d'un tel investissement. Car oui, c'est un investissement. Dans second life, tout s'achète, et tout se vend, avec la devise locale : le Linden Dollar. Phillip Rosedale, le fondateur, est un homme comblé. En octobre 2006, Linden Lab (société d'étude de second life) a recensé 12 784 entreprises effectuant une activité rentable virtuelle dans le jeux. Parmis eux, on compte IBM, Nissan, Dell, Warner Bros, etc...

Mais quel est l'intérêt ?

Tout d'abord, être présent dans second life permet une interaction unique avec les clients et les fans de la marque. Et surtout de mieux connaître les consommateurs...

- Sur Second Life, Pontiac propose d'essayer de magnifiques voitures sur des circuits. Celle-ci sont ensuite customisables. Cela permets de détecter de nouvelles tendances et de nouveaux besoins...

- Chez American Apparel, la célèbre marque de vêtements, le but est de créer du traffic sur le vrai site de E-commerce. Toute personne qui achète un T-shirt virtuel (moins de 1 linden dollar) se voit offrir un bon de réduction de 15% pour le magasin online "réel"...

- Warner Bros, eux, organisent des avants premières pour les nouveaux albums de leurs artistes... Le but : séduire les early adopters et les leaders d'opinion.

Alors qu'est-ce qu'il nous réserve monsieur Biver, en intégrant la seconde vie ?

- Une présence de la marque sur un canal beaucoup moins saturé que la presse et l'internet (pour le moment...)

- La possibilité d'évaluer le potentiel de nouveaux produits sans en faire un lancement mondial

- Une croissance de la notoriété auprès de leaders d'opinion...

Among its 2007 novelties, Hublot has launched the largest watch – 48 mm in diameter – in its collection. A Big Bang of ideal proportions suited to slender as well as larger wrists ! The red gold and white ceramic Porto Cervo model is a good example of this, all the more so as its light and luminous colour is also particularly appreciated by women. Sporty, distinctive, elegant and … visible.

The features of the Big Bang are enhanced by the red gold numerals inserted in the unidirectional rotating bezel. The gold was cast in recesses hollowed out of the ceramic using an innovative process. Even if its look clearly asserts its vocation as a diving watch, the Big Bang King is suitable for all your outings, not only for the underwater kind ! In this giant timekeeper which matches fine wrists perfectly, we instantly recognise Hublot’s signature, not only in the fusion of materials but also in its style, which is at once sporty and refined.

* Reference 322.PE.230.RW
* Case in 18k Reed Gold
* Rotating Bezel in 18k Red Gold
* White Dial
* White Rubber Strap
* HUB 21 Self-winding movement

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To mark the launch of the summer season, Hublot, the watchmaking brand, is opening a St. Tropez branch, its second single-brand store in France after the Paris branch, and using the occasion to launch a limited edition new model of its famous Big Bang, sporting the 'Polo Club Saint-Tropez' logo.

In mid-June, the famous Swiss watchmaking brand opened a second single-brand store in France, after locating its Paris branch in the Rue Saint Honoré. Three months after the opening of its Paris store, Hublot has now decided to put down roots in St. Tropez. Situated inside the Byblos hotel, the Nyon workshop has chosen a prime setting in the heart of St. Tropez old town.

To cement its presence in the most jet-setting harbour in the world, Hublot is entering a new prestigious partnership, in the wake of its Monaco Yacht Club and Wally Yacht associations, this time with the St. Tropez Polo Club. Especially for the occasion, Hublot has produced a limited edition of 250 Big Bang pieces carrying the 'Polo Club Saint-Tropez' logo. The model will be presented at the gala dinner to be held on 7th July, on the eve of the season's first polo competition finals: the International Polo Cup. It's the first time that a Big Bang 44mm comes with two interchangeable straps, one in a fusion of alligator skin and rubber, which makes this model an exclusive on more than one count. The steel case is adorned with a white ceramic bezel and white dial embellished with a hint of azure blue at 9 o'clock in the form of the 'Polo Club Saint-Tropez' logo. The colour of the bezel is by no means an accident, it's the very same white that has earned St. Tropez its international reputation.

* Case : “Big Bang” diameter 44.5 mm. in steel 316 L
* Bezel Setting : White matt ceramic fixed by 6 titanium H-shaped screws
* Crystal : Sapphire crystal with anti-reflection treatment, double face
* Lug disc : White resin
* Lateral inserts : White resin
* Back : 316 L steel back with “Polo Club Saint-Tropez” engraving
* Crown : Steel with white rubber inserts
* Push-pieces : Steel, rectangular with white rubber inserts
* Water-resistance : 100 m or 10 ATM
* Dial : Matt white with steel appliqué indexes in vertical satin finish
* Hublot logo : Gray at noon
* Polo Club Saint-Tropez logo : At 9 o’clock
* Hands : Faceted, sand-blasted and rhodium-plated with luminescent feature, chronograph hand with H-shaped counterpoise
* Movement : Mechanical chronograph movement with automatic winding
* Hublot calibre HUB44 developed with La Joux-Perret
* No of components : 252
* Bridge : Polished satin-finished bridge with chamfered edges
* Screws : Black PVD
* Calendar : Trapezoid aperture at 4.30
* Oscillating weight : Tungsten oscillating weight with dimpled surface treated in black PVD
* Bottom plate : Sanded rhodied
* Barrel : Reinforced spring
* Escapement : Glucydur balance spring
* Power reserve : 42 hours
* Strap : Adjustable natural white rubber strap and alligator big square scales, interchangeable, with Hublot logo
* Clasp : Deploying clasp in steel
* Series : Limited with 250 numbered pieces 01/250

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This Big Bang evokes the famous Chaplin’s film “Modern Times”.

Resulting from the blending of traditional watch-making know-how and futuristic design of subtle black lines, it is provocative, robust and free.

The carbon fibre design, simulating a two-wheel gear-train shape, is brought to the fore on the index-free dial; its sharp and salient angles contrasting with the curves of the Tourbillon cage.

Transparency and black invisibility are illuminated by the rubies in the Tourbillon movement in a harmony of contrasts, with a fusion of ceramic, titanium, carbon, steel and rubber.

* Case : “Big Bang” diameter 44.5 mm in satin-finish black ceramic
* Bezel : Satin-finish black ceramic
* Crystal : Sapphire crystal with interior anti-reflection treatment
* Bezel Lug : Black composite resin
* Lateral Inserts : Black composite resin Back Titanium circular satin-finish with sapphire crystal, interior anti-reflection treatment
* Crown : White gold with natural black rubber insert
* Screws : Titanium
* Water-resistance : 100 m or 10 ATM
* Dial : Black bridge in carbon fibre in the shape of a two-wheel gear-train, Tourbillon cage at 6 o’clock
* Hands : Faceted, matt black hands
* Movement : HUB 1000 SB, Tourbillon with manual winding
* No of components : 148
* Rubies : 24
* Bridges : Carbon fibre, shaped
* Bottom plate : Black circular-grained or rhodium plated
* Power Reserve : 120 hours
* Type of Tourbillon : Flying Tourbillon in a cage without ball bearing, raised 2.8 mm above the base of the bottom plate
* Cage diameter : 13.00 mm
* Balance : Gyromax regulating inertia-block
* Lines : 13 1?4
* Vibrations : 21600 A/h (3Hz)
* Depth : 7.40 mm
* Screws : Steel
* Strap : Adjustable smooth natural black rubber with Hublot logo
* Clasp : Black PVD coated steel
* Limited edition : 50 individually numbered pieces 01/50 – 50/50

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