Press release
The launch held in the presence of Mr. Jean-Claude Biver, CEO of Hublot, and Mr. Jet Li, internationally acclaimed movie star, Chinese martial arts champion, philanthropist / social sector leader and founder of the One Foundation, Hublot announced Jet Li as another legendary ambassador for its brand, following Diego Maradona, Ayrton Senna's family and Institute, Manchester United football team and others.
The Flagship Store inherits The Art of Fusion
Hublot, the Swiss luxury brand which brings the "Art of Fusion" and a passion for unexpected combinations, announced the opening of its 3rd and largest boutique in China with 100 square meters. It follows the 1st boutique at Plaza 66 in Shanghai and the 2nd at Intercontinental Hotel in Dalian. The Flagship Store is located at the entrance of the prestigious Wangfujing Street in the premium Oriental Plaza, one of most prosperous iconic shopping malls in downtown Beijing. The store inherits « the Art of Fusion » philosophy with an ingenious combination of steel, carbon fiber, aluminum and singular alloys with wood, leather, rubber and glass, and features a contemporary original look for a unique retail experience.
About the opening in Beijing, Jean-Claude Biver, CEO of Hublot, declared: “Each opening reflects the great vitality and fantastic expansion of Hublot, with every month seeing the inauguration of new exclusive locations in the most prestigious settings around the world. Totaling 30 boutiques by the end of this year, including Paris Place Vendôme and New York on Madison Avenue, Hublot has never been so strong and successful as it is today”.
Jet Li joins Hublot as ambassador of the brand
Hublot is extremely honored to announce that Jet Li has joined the brand as an international ambassador. Versatile, charismatic and full of integrity, Jet Li is not only one of the world's biggest kung fu action movie stars but also a social sector leader, role model and cross generational hero in Asia and worldwide. Before launching his film career, Beijing-born Jet Li began studying Wushu (Chinese martial arts) at the age of 8 and won a record 5 consecutive national championships. As a youth, Jet Li represented China in over 45 countries performing martial arts at various state diplomatic functions. At the age of 17, his film career started with a number of successful martial arts films in Asia. Today, Jet Li's film credits include a string of successful Hollywood movies. For the past years, he has focused on social sector development in China, where he founded the One Foundation in 2006. As a leading non-profit organization in China, One Foundation's mission is to promote a culture of broad-based participation in philanthropy and giving.
Jean-Claude Biver feels very proud Jet Li wears Hublot and declared: « Symbolizing our fantastic success, it is hugely symbolic for Hublot to see its watch worn by Jet Li, who is one of the biggest international movie stars, and a living legend in China. I feel very proud Jet Li has chosen to wear Hublot timepieces as we also share the same humanitarian values. It is a great honor and a privilege ».
Jet Li declared: "Hublot is a world-renowned creator of premier timepieces. In addition to its distinct artistry and personality, Hublot is also strong supporter of philanthropy across the globe. Now as Hublot seeks to extend its brand and support of social causes to China, I hope we can find ways to partner with One Foundation to help even more people. In sharing these common humanitarian values, I am honored to become Hublot's first Asian ambassador.”
Hublot to accelerate development in China – 15 new Hublot in the next 36 months
Hublot officially entered China in 2009. After only one year of development, Hublot has achieved outstanding performance. Currently, the brand has opened 28 boutiques worldwide (in only 5 years), including 3 boutiques in China, complemented by 4 retailers located in Beijing, Shanghai, Dalian and Hangzhou. The brand plans to expand to 15 Hublot boutiques in China over the next 3 years. The Beijing boutique is a partnership with Jinhua Watch & Jewelry, which is Hublot's most important partner in China. Founded in 1992, Jinhua Watch & Jewelry has provided strong support to Hublot in China with its premium service, luxury environment and understanding of high-end Swiss timepieces.
The design of the Beijing flagship store features revolutionary glass-less display cases which enable clients to observe watches without barriers. Every detail reflects the concept of “invisible visibility” and the giant LED screen at the top of the boutique gate premiered Big Bang on the busy Wangfujing Street.
Following others Hublot boutiques locations in premium shopping areas such as Bal Harbour in Miami, Plaza 101 in Taipei, Central in Hong Kong, Marina Bay in Singapore, WAFI in Dubai etc, the Beijing Flagship Store also provides a full range of customized top-service for clients.
Big Bang One Million $ Lady 38mm first revealed in China
For this special occasion, Hublot revealed the new One Million $ Big Bang Lady in China. The Big Bang One Million $ Lady 38 mm is an exceptional piece featuring a total of 880 baguette diamonds, adding up to more than 48 carats. Made from white gold by Master stone-setters using the complex "invisible set" technique which magnifies the brilliance of the diamonds, it is a piece that has enjoyed major success since its presentation in Basel in April 2010. In October, it won the prize of "Best High Jewelry Watch of 2010" Premier Middle East Watches, Jewelry & Pens Awards 2010" organized in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Due to the complexity of its production, it is a watch that is made by special order only.
