One might have noticed that the referees during the World Cup 2018 in Russia were all wearing unique watches as they focus on the game. These state-of-the-art timepieces were provided by none other than Swiss luxury watch manufacturer Hublot, FIFA’s official timekeeping sponsor. For this year’s recently-concluded competition, the brand created a new and exciting digital watch to further connect all enthusiasts, professional or not, to the game, with their special edition Big Bang Referee watch.
Compare Hublot Big Bang Watch Prices Online
Release date: May 2018
Price when reviewed: $5,200
The watch was first introduced last March during Baselworld 2018. However, it only became available for public purchase two months later in May. Since it’s a special limited edition of the Swiss luxury label’s classic Big Bang model, there are only 2,018 pieces available in all Hublot stores and various online retail platforms. Each piece costs around $5,200.
Specifications:
- Diameter: 49mm
- Water Resistant: 50 meters
- Power Reserve: 24 hours
- Frequency: 28,800 vph
- Strap: Lined black rubber or sponge sports strap
- Buckle: Folding clasp
Pros
This new watch is actually Hublot’s first-ever foray into digital watchmaking. Making use of Wear OS, the type incorporated in Android phones, owners were able to stay updated regarding their favorite World Cup games, regardless of location and time zone. Every goal made would alert the wearer and tell him/her the country and player who scored the goal. For the most special edition worn by the referees during the matches, their watches would accurately indicate whether the goal can be considered for the point or if the ball’s coordinates deemed it worthless.
Cons
Now that the World Cup 2018 is over, the value for these watches remains to be seen. For now, they seem to be like any other smartwatch, with apps and digital quirks to keep one entertained throughout the day. With this in mind, the watch doesn’t stand out against other companies’ watches whose items may be more technologically advanced, such as the ones from Apple and the like. Furthermore, these watches may become obsolete once World Cup 2022 comes.
Compare with:
- TAG Heuer Men’s Kirium F1
- Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Chronograph
- Hermès Cape Cod GM Matte Black Leather Wrap
- Greubel Forsey Art Piece 2 Edition 2
Image Credits: Slashgear (featured image), Hublot, Time And Tide Watches, Horas Y Minutos, Wareable (article images).
