Hublot Spirit of Big Bang Depeche Mode: An Iconic Partnership

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August 7, 2025

In the world of horology and music collaborations, the recent unveiling of the Spirit of Big Bang Depeche Mode stands as a special testament to the enduring partnership between Swiss luxury watchmaker Hublot and the iconic British band Depeche Mode. This collaboration, which commenced over a decade ago, has consistently combined the world of timekeeping and music with a purpose beyond mere aesthetics. The latest creation is no exception, serving not only as a tribute to Depeche Mode’s recent album and world tour, “Memento Mori,” but also as a profound statement on the essence of time and our existence.

The Hublot Spirit of Big Bang Depeche Mode is a marvel of design and symbolism, combining a skull motif with an hourglass on the dial. This emblem, a nod to the “Memento Mori” theme, serves as a reminder of life’s fleeting nature and the need to live fully in the present. The partnership’s start dates back fourteen years, initially forged to raise awareness and funds for environmental and humanitarian efforts. Through the years, this alliance has raised over USD$2.3 million for notable causes such as the Teenage Cancer Trust and charity:water, demonstrating the impactful convergence of art, philanthropy, and innovation.

The release of “Memento Mori,” Depeche Mode’s 15th studio album, and the accompanying worldwide tour in March 2023 marked a significant moment for the band and its collaboration with Hublot. This partnership has now extended its philanthropic reach to support the Conservation Collective, a global charity dedicated to environmental preservation. The initiatives funded by Depeche Mode and Hublot are making strides against plastic pollution, empowering local communities across seven countries to enact sustainable waste management and cleanup efforts.

The new limited-edition watch was unveiled in Berlin, eleven years after the duo’s first collaborative event in the same city. With its signature tonneau shape and the All-Black look synonymous with Hublot, the Spirit of Big Bang Depeche Mode encapsulates the essence of time’s passage through its innovative design. The watch’s dial, featuring small black ceramic spheres and the distinctive DM initials, alongside pyramid-shaped studs on its bezel and dial, reflects the band’s aesthetic and the theme of transient life.

Dave Gahan wearing the Hublot Spirit of Big Bang Depeche Mode at rehearsals in Berlin

Crafted from sand-blasted and polished black ceramic, the 42mm tonneau-shaped case houses a self-winding HUB1710 SD calibre movement with a 50-hour power reserve. The watch comes with two interchangeable straps, one made from recycled materials and velcro and the other in classic black rubber, each incorporating the pyramid motif for a distinctively rock-inspired vibe.

This limited edition of 100 pieces is presented in a special box, which includes an exclusive 10″ vinyl single of Depeche Mode’s “Wagging Tongue,” produced sustainably using green energy and recycled PVC. This unique offering not only celebrates the band’s legacy but also Hublot’s commitment to innovation, craftsmanship, and social responsibility. The Spirit of Big Bang Depeche Mode is a symbol of the enduring power of collaboration, the importance of environmental stewardship, and the timeless message to cherish every moment.