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18 February 2024

INNOVATIVE WINDING SYSTEM

By In General, Hublot, Technical

In the ever-evolving landscape of luxury watches, Hublot has once again proven its commitment to innovation and craftsmanship with the unveiling of the MP-10 Tourbillon, the latest addition to its Masterpiece (MP) line which was started under Biver’s leadership. Beyond its visually appealing design, the true marvel lies in the construction of its movement, specifically the groundbreaking winding system named the Weight Energy System. Departing from the conventional automatic winding setup, Hublot has redefined the rules of watchmaking, creating a timepiece that not only captivates with its aesthetics but also revolutionizes the way automatic watches are wound.

Hublot MP-10 Tourbillon Weight Energy System Titanium
Hublot MP-10 Tourbillon Weight Energy System Titanium – Photo courtesy of Hublot

While the aesthetics of the MP-10 are undoubtedly impressive, the real innovation lies beneath the surface in the form of the Weight Energy System. Unlike the traditional half-disk rotor hidden on the back of most automatic watches, Hublot’s engineers have given the winding mass a complete makeover. The Weight Energy System efficiently winds up the barrel, providing a substantial 48-hour power reserve, which is not a groundbreaking result for today’s standards and in comparison to traditional bi-directional winding. The crown at 12 o’clock gives the possibility of manual winding, it’s crucial to emphasize that this crown is exclusively reserved for winding purposes, while time setting is accomplished through another crown located on the case back.

Hublot MP-10 - Caseback details
Hublot MP-10 – Case-back details – Photo courtesy of Hublot

The distinctive feature of the HUB9013 movement is the 22k white gold weights with matte black decoration on each side. These weights move along a set of geared teeth connected to the mainspring barrel, looking like two pistons going up and down. Named the Weight Energy System, the MP-10’s winding system incorporates solid white gold blocks shaped like barrels. Positioned on the left and right sides of the dial, these blocks move vertically along an axis, connected to a rack for bi-directional winding. This departure from traditional circular winding is not only unique but also visible from the front at all times – an innovative approach currently under patent-pending status according to Hublot. With 592 components, 5 years of research and development, 2 linear weights, 1 inclined tourbillon which is not the star of the show, and a circular power reserve, the MP-10 is set to be produced in a limited edition of just 50 pieces. Hublot has not only created a visually stunning timepiece but has also pushed the boundaries of what is possible in mechanical watchmaking with this rare complication.

Hublot MP-10 – Weight Energy System details – Photo courtesy of Hodinkee

What is particularly interesting is the shock-absorbing mechanism at each end of the weight. Hublot has ingeniously designed the gold weight to fall onto a metal “finger,” hinged like a lever. When depressed, the lever pushes against a metal coil shock, a unique orientation not commonly found in watchmaking. This shock absorber design, reminiscent of certain mountain bikes, allows for low travel but high shock absorption, redistributing energy efficiently. While not necessarily suitable for mass production, this Weight Energy System positions Hublot as a pioneer in alternative automatic winding systems. This is a kind of reinvention of the bumper used in the first automatic watches, where a sort of hammer would swing and hit a spring at the end of its motion and would create a shock every time, this new mechanism avoids this shock.

The Hublot MP-10 Tourbillon can be considered the thematic successor to the 2014 TAG Heuer Monaco V4 Tourbillon, both brands being under the LVMH umbrella. The TAG Heuer Monaco V4 introduced a more primitive version of the linear weight automatic winding system, but the Hublot Weight Energy System is a refined mechanical interpretation of the same concept. The TAG Heuer Monaco V4 utilized a solid weight attached to a rail that turned a winding gear as it moved up and down. However, this system faced challenges due to the constant shifting weight, resulting in significant shock. Additionally, the short travel distance of the weight limited its efficiency.

TAG Heuer Monaco V4
TAG Heuer Monaco V4 – Photo courtessy of Time and Tide
TAG Heuer Monaco V4 - Linear winding system details
TAG Heuer Monaco V4 – Linear winding system details – Photo courtessy of Time and Tide

In contrast, Hublot addressed these issues and patented the Weight Energy System, ensuring the weights stop at each end of the track, minimizing wear and tear. Hublot further enhanced efficiency by incorporating two weights instead of one, increasing power generation. The MP-10 claims to outperform traditional rotor-based automatic movements, showcasing the brand’s dedication to continuous improvement and innovation. This evolution from the TAG Heuer V4 emphasizes LVMH’s commitment to advancing the field of high-end watchmaking but recalls again the technical vanguard of Tag Heuer as in the case of the Mikrograph, the predecessor of the Zenith El Primero 21. Moreover, it is interesting to point out that Corum in 2011 developed an automatic linear-winding baguette movement, equipped with a linear oscillating weight made in platinum that could provide 40 hours of power reserve, so the concept of the linear weight is not totally new in haute horology.

Corum Golden Bridge  ref. B313
Corum Golden Bridge ref. B313 – Photo courtesy of Corum
Corum caliber CO313 with linear winding system
Corum caliber CO313 – Photo courtesy of Corum

In the realm of unconventional timekeeping, the MP-10 takes center stage with its distinctive dial configuration. Unlike traditional watches, the MP-10 forgoes hands in favor of four constantly rotating displays. The upper third of the dial features the hours and minutes, combined with an invisible magnifying glass for readability. The central third showcases a circular power reserve, marked by a two-tone disc in red and green, providing a clear visual representation of the remaining power. The lower third displays seconds directly on the inclined tourbillon cage, adding a touch of dynamism to the timekeeping experience. Notably, the tourbillon cage is made from monobloc aluminum, suspended and inclined, with a patent application pending for this unique mechanical configuration.

What makes the MP-10 truly distinctive is its lack of a traditional dial. Hublot has seamlessly fused the caliber with the dial, creating a timepiece where the movement is the face and soul of the watch. This highly architectural design, centered around volume and depth, does not compromise readability; rather, it simplifies the process of time reading while leaving the first stage to the new winding system. 

Hublot MP-10 – Photo courtesy of Hublot

In conclusion, the Hublot MP-10 Tourbillon stands at the forefront of horological innovation, pushing the boundaries of traditional watchmaking giving a new take to an already rare complication. The Weight Energy System, coupled with the unique dial configuration, sets a new standard for what is possible in high-end mechanical watches. As a limited edition masterpiece, the MP-10 not only showcases Hublot’s technical prowess but also cements its position as a trailblazer in the world of luxury timepieces. With each tick of the MP-10, Hublot invites us to witness the evolution of mechanical watchmaking into a realm of unparalleled artistry.

Written by Giovanni Andrean

Born in 1999, energy engineer and truly passionate about watches since he was a teenager. He is attracted from the mechanical marvel of watches and their strong heritage in the same way one could be attracted by a piece of art.