Paying homage to Arabian heritage, Hublot has collaborated with Dubai-based calligraphy artist Wissam Shawkat to create a stunning dial design for a piece dedicated to the recent Dubai Watch Week event in the UAE.
Dedicated to the sixth edition of Dubai Watch Week, the Swiss watchmaker and local partner Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons unveiled the release of two special edition Classic Fusion Black Magic Dubai Watch Week pieces.
The colourful dial was designed in collaboration with Shawkat’s expertise in creating art that transcends boundaries and resonates with diverse audiences aligns with Hublot’s commitment to innovation and artistic expression.
The design of the two timepieces drew inspiration from heritage and culture–drawing elements of various phrases and words from the Arabic language. Both timepieces feature exquisite calligraphy inside their dials, a true testament to the fusion of art with exceptional watchmaking.
The calligraphy, meticulously created by Wissam Shawkat, introduces vibrant and contrasting colours that complement the sleek black cases and dials. The calligraphy reads “Al Zaman” and “Al Waqt” – both words meaning “time” in Arabic – to symbolize the fusion between the watch brand, Arabian culture, and calligraphy. The rich, bright colours set against the black background create an eye-catching and distinctive aesthetic that embodies the spirit of Dubai.
The Classic Fusion Black Magic Dubai Watch Week sits in a 42-mm case with a matching Hublot black ceramic bezel featuring a unique twist in the dial. Highlighting Arabic calligraphy in rich bright orange, blue, green, and red, the mechanics of the HUB1110 self-winding movement and its 42-hour power reserve mark the time.
The alligator strap with a black steel deployant buckle extenuates further the robust contrast between the flushed calligraphy and black ceramic. Encased is Wissam Shawkat’s calligraphy, which weaves its way around the dial, reminiscent of the mesmerizing landscapes of Dubai’s dunes and urban skyline.