Serial Number Guides › Hublot
Enter your Hublot serial number to identify approximate production year — covering Classic Fusion, Big Bang, Spirit of Big Bang, and all limited editions from 1980 to present.
Results are approximate ±1–2 years. For exact authentication, contact Hublot directly or a certified dealer.
Hublot was founded in 1980 in Nyon, Switzerland by Italian entrepreneur Carlo Crocco. The brand pioneered natural rubber straps on luxury watches — then unconventional — which became a signature element. "Hublot" is French for "porthole," reflected in the distinctive circular case design.
Compared to centuries-old Swiss maisons, Hublot's serial number history is compact — production began in 1980, meaning the oldest serials start near 1. Jean-Claude Biver's arrival in 2004 and the Big Bang launch in 2005 transformed Hublot from a niche brand to a global luxury force. LVMH acquired Hublot in 2008, funding rapid expansion.
Carlo Crocco's original vision. Natural rubber straps, porthole cases, gold and steel models. Limited production — serials 1 through approximately 50,000. These early pieces are the most collectible for heritage reasons.
Jean-Claude Biver joins as CEO. Big Bang debuts at SIHH 2005 — sold out in 90 days. "Art of Fusion" concept (fusion of materials) established. Serials 50,000–200,000. Production volume still relatively modest.
LVMH acquisition in April 2008. Production ramps significantly. Classic Fusion collection launched (2012). NFL, FIFA, and Formula 1 partnerships established. Serials 200,000–500,000.
HUB1240 UNICO in-house chronograph movement launched. Spirit of Big Bang barrel case introduced (2013). Ricardo Guadalupe becomes CEO (2012). Serials 500,000–1,000,000.
Big Bang Integral bracelet (2019) — first integrated bracelet in brand history. MP (Masterpiece) collection expands. New movement generations including HUB1280 UNICO 2. Serials 1,000,000+.
Because Hublot is a relatively young brand (founded 1980), the serial number progression is more compressed than brands with century-long histories. Growth accelerated sharply after 2005.
| Year | Approx. Serial From | Year | Approx. Serial From |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1980 | 1 | 2005 | 100,000 |
| 1983 | 2,000 | 2007 | 175,000 |
| 1986 | 6,000 | 2008 | 220,000 |
| 1989 | 12,000 | 2010 | 350,000 |
| 1992 | 20,000 | 2012 | 500,000 |
| 1995 | 30,000 | 2014 | 650,000 |
| 1998 | 42,000 | 2016 | 800,000 |
| 2001 | 55,000 | 2018 | 1,000,000 |
| 2003 | 70,000 | 2020 | 1,200,000 |
| 2004 | 85,000 | 2022 | 1,500,000 |
| — | — | 2024 | 1,800,000 |
Most Hublot models engrave the serial number on the solid caseback. The serial is typically a 6–7 digit number preceded by the reference number. Both numbers are laser-engraved. The caseback also shows "Swiss Made," the case material, and water resistance rating.
On many Big Bang models, the serial number is engraved between the case lugs at the 6 o'clock position. You may need to remove the strap to see it clearly. A flashlight and loupe are helpful for reading the fine engraving.
Hublot reference numbers follow the pattern: 411.NX.1170.RX where the first 3 digits identify the collection, the middle characters identify material, and the last segment identifies the strap. The reference number and serial together fully identify your piece.
Launched 2012. Cleaner, more minimalist design vs Big Bang. 38–45mm. Entry point for the brand. Steel, titanium, King Gold options.
The flagship. 44mm in original. Exposed H-shaped screws, bezel attachments. HUB4100 automatic or UNICO chronograph calibres.
Tonneau/barrel-shaped case (2013). 45mm. Striking visual departure. Valued for distinctive aesthetics and movement visibility.
Houses the in-house HUB1240 UNICO flyback chronograph. Skeletonized dial. Considered technically the most significant Hublot movement.
Launched 2019. First Hublot with fully integrated bracelet matching case geometry. Major shift toward bracelet watches in the lineup.
Masterpiece series — highly complex and limited edition pieces. MP-05 LaFerrari, MP-11, etc. Often 6-figure retail prices. Serials in normal range but extreme rarity.
Hublot is among the most counterfeited luxury brands. The Big Bang's distinctive looks are widely imitated. Key authentication points:
Authentic Hublot Big Bang models use H-shaped (spanner/Allen) screws on the bezel and case. Counterfeits typically use standard hex or Phillips screws. The screw heads should be flush and perfectly finished.
Hublot uses ceramic, titanium, and King Gold — materials with distinct tactile properties. A titanium model should feel light; King Gold should feel substantial. Polished and satin finishing on authentic pieces is crisp and consistent at transitions.
Many Hublot models have display casebacks. Authentic calibres show sharp, consistent finishing, correct engraving, and the Hublot logo on the rotor. Counterfeits often use generic Chinese movements with sloppy finishing.
Cross-reference the serial with the model — a Big Bang serial (100,000+) matches the Big Bang launch in 2005. Serials below 80,000 on a Big Bang are chronologically impossible. Hublot customer service can verify serials at +41 22 990 90 00 or through authorized dealers.
Hublot holds resale value better than many mid-range Swiss brands but typically depreciates more than Rolex, Patek, or AP. Key factors:
Limited editions (partnerships with Ferrari, Usain Bolt, FIFA) and UNICO models retain value better than standard production. King Gold references outperform steel on the secondary market. Full box and papers are essential — Hublot loses value more sharply without documentation than many other brands.
Mass-produced steel Classic Fusion models can trade at 40–60% of retail within a few years. Discontinued colorways or special dials without collectible appeal age poorly. Polished cases with scratches are harder to refinish due to complex case geometry.
Classic Fusion 42mm steel: $5,000–$8,000 (retail ~$9,900–$12,000). Big Bang 44mm steel: $8,000–$14,000 (retail ~$14,000–$18,000). Big Bang UNICO steel: $12,000–$20,000 (retail ~$20,000–$25,000). King Gold pieces command 30–50% premiums over equivalent steel.
Hublot serial numbers are engraved on the caseback or on the lugs at the 6 o'clock position. On Big Bang models, look between the lugs at 6 o'clock. Some models also engrave the serial under the strap attachment point.
Hublot reference numbers follow a structured format: the first 3 digits indicate the collection and material (e.g., 301 = Classic Fusion steel, 411 = Big Bang Unico steel), followed by digits indicating dial, strap, and limited edition details. The reference number combined with serial number fully identifies the piece.
The original Hublot Big Bang was presented at SIHH 2005 by Jean-Claude Biver, who joined Hublot as CEO in 2004. It sold out within three months of release. The Big Bang remains Hublot's flagship collection and is responsible for the brand's global growth and current position in the industry.
Hublot is a legitimate Swiss luxury brand with LVMH backing and genuine in-house movements in many models (UNICO movement). The brand is style-forward and polarizing among traditionalists, but produces well-made watches. Resale values are lower than Rolex or AP but the brand has a passionate collector base, particularly among sports and fashion audiences.
Yes. We buy and appraise Hublot watches including Big Bang, Classic Fusion, and Spirit of Big Bang. Contact us for a same-day cash offer — no appointment necessary.
We buy Hublot watches at competitive market prices — Big Bang, Classic Fusion, limited editions. Same-day assessments with no-obligation cash offers.
Get a Free OfferData sources & accuracy: Serial data compiled from industry references, dealer records, and Hublot model production timelines. Figures are approximations; individual pieces may vary ±1–2 years. For exact verification contact Hublot directly with your full reference and serial number.
Also see: Rolex Serial Numbers · Panerai Serial Numbers · All Serial Number Guides