Introduction
The Hublot King Power collection has always been the brand’s statement of unapologetic presence. Where the Big Bang introduced the world to Hublot’s ‘Art of Fusion’, the King Power amplified every dimension – case size, material contrast, and visual impact. The reference 701.CI.0170.RX is a quintessential example: a 45mm ceramic-and-titanium case housing the in-house Unico chronograph movement, wrapped in a black rubber strap. It is a watch that refuses to be ignored, yet its technical execution rewards those who look closer.
For the young collector who values both horological substance and street-level swagger, the King Power Unico offers a rare combination. It is not a dress watch, nor is it a tool watch in the traditional sense. It is a luxury sports chronograph built for the wrist that commands attention – whether at a yacht club, a gallery opening, or a weekend track day. This review examines every facet of the 701.CI.0170.RX, from its movement architecture to its real-world wearability, to help you decide if this Hublot belongs in your collection.
Manufacture History
Hublot was founded in 1980 by Carlo Crocco, who introduced the first natural rubber strap on a luxury watch. The brand was acquired by Jean-Claude Biver in 2004, who revitalized it with the Big Bang and later the King Power, emphasizing bold design and material innovation. The King Power line debuted in 2009 as a larger, more aggressive sibling to the Big Bang, and the Unico movement (Caliber HUB1240) was introduced in 2010 as Hublot’s first in-house chronograph caliber.
Movement
The HUB1240 Unico is an automatic column-wheel chronograph with a vertical clutch. It beats at 28,800 vph (4 Hz) and offers a 72-hour power reserve. The movement uses a silicon escape wheel and lever for reduced friction and improved longevity. It is visible through the sapphire caseback, where you can see the skeletonized rotor and the column wheel. Finishing is industrial-grade: circular graining on the plates, perlage on the bridges, and beveled edges. It is not haute horlogerie, but it is robust and reliable. The chronograph pushers have a crisp, positive feel, and the date is quick-set via the crown.
Specifications
- Case diameter: 45mm
- Case thickness: 15.5mm
- Lug-to-lug: 52mm
- Case material: Titanium with ceramic bezel
- Crystal: Sapphire with anti-reflective coating
- Water resistance: 100m (330ft)
- Lume: Super-LumiNova on hands and hour markers
- Strap: Black rubber with deployant clasp
Wrist Feel
At 45mm wide and 15.5mm thick, the King Power is undeniably large. Yet the titanium case keeps the weight surprisingly manageable – around 120 grams on the rubber strap. The integrated rubber strap curves sharply downward, hugging the wrist and preventing the watch from feeling top-heavy. The ceramic bezel and pushers add a cool, smooth texture, while the titanium caseback sits flat against the skin. On a 7-inch wrist, the lugs overhang slightly, but the overall silhouette is more wearable than the 48mm Big Bang. The deployant clasp is well-engineered, with a double-pusher release and micro-adjustment holes. This is a watch that feels substantial without being punishing, though those with smaller wrists (under 6.5 inches) may find it overwhelming.
The rubber strap is supple and ventilated on the underside, making it comfortable even in hot weather. The chronograph pushers have a crisp, positive action – a testament to the column-wheel design. The crown is screw-down and knurled, easy to grip. Overall, the King Power wears like a modern sports watch: bold, confident, and surprisingly ergonomic for its size.
Accuracy
The HUB1240 movement is regulated to within -4/+6 seconds per day in-house, though real-world performance often falls within -2/+4 seconds per day. The silicon escapement helps maintain consistency across positions. Expect around +3 seconds per day on the wrist, with slight variation depending on activity level. The 72-hour power reserve is reliable, and the movement maintains good amplitude even after two days off the wrist.
Occasions
The King Power is best suited for sport, daily wear, and travel. Its 100m water resistance and rubber strap make it ideal for swimming and casual activities. The bold design works well with casual and smart-casual attire, but it is too large and loud for formal occasions. It is a perfect companion for weekends, vacations, and nights out.
Wrist Presence
5/5 – The King Power is a wrist-dominating statement. The black ceramic bezel, skeletonized dial, and bold numerals ensure it is noticed from across the room. It is not subtle, and that is precisely the point.
Reference Variants
The 701.CI.0170.RX is the standard black-on-black version. There are limited editions with red or yellow accents (refs 701.CI.0170.RX.1104 and .1204) that add a pop of color to the dial and strap stitching. All share the same case and movement.
Family References
Other King Power Unico references include the 701.CI.0170.RX.1104 (red accents) and 701.CI.0170.RX.1204 (yellow accents). The King Power line also includes models with different case materials like King Gold and carbon fiber.
Other Notable Hublot Models
Hublot’s Big Bang Unico 45mm is the direct predecessor and shares the same movement. The Classic Fusion 45mm offers a more restrained design, while the Spirit of Big Bang 42mm is a tonneau-shaped alternative.
Similar Watches
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph 44mm – similar oversized luxury sports chronograph with rubber strap. Richard Mille RM 011 – titanium case, skeleton dial, high-impact aesthetic. Panerai Luminor Chrono 44mm – large cushion case, robust chronograph.
Homages
Invicta Pro Diver 48mm Chronograph ($150) – oversized chronograph with rubber strap, but lacks finishing. Stuhrling Original 45mm Chronograph ($200) – skeleton dial and ceramic bezel homage.
Investment Value
MSRP was $19,900. Current retail is similar, but pre-owned prices range from $12,000 to $16,000. The trend is depreciating; Hublot watches do not hold value well. For the trust-fund-baby buyer, buying pre-owned is the smart move. Auction history is minimal – no major sales at Christie’s or Sotheby’s.
Service Interval
Every 5 years, cost approximately $800. Must be done by Hublot or authorized service center. Turnaround 4-6 weeks.
Pros and Cons
Pros: In-house column-wheel chronograph, lightweight titanium, excellent ergonomics, 72-hour power reserve, distinctive design.
Cons: High depreciation, large size, expensive service, skeleton dial can be hard to read, limited versatility.
Final Verdict
The Hublot King Power Unico 701.CI.0170.RX is a masterclass in bold horology. It delivers a genuine in-house chronograph movement in a package that is both lightweight and visually arresting. While it will never be a conservative choice, for the collector who values presence and technical substance, it is a compelling option – especially on the pre-owned market. If you can handle the size and the depreciation, this King Power rewards with every press of the chronograph pusher.
