Hublot has reaffirmed its ongoing partnership with SORAI (Save Our Rhinos Africa and India), the rhino conservation organization founded by former international cricketer and Hublot ambassador, Kevin Pietersen.
The collaboration highlights Hublot’s commitment to environmental preservation, with a particular focus on endangered species like the rhino. In support of SORAI’s mission, Hublot introduces the *Spirit of Big Bang SORAI*, a 30-piece limited-edition tonneau-shaped hand-wound tourbillon. This is the fourth watch created under the Hublot x SORAI partnership, with part of the proceeds from sales going directly to the conservation efforts of the organization.
Despite the progress made by conservation groups like SORAI, the rhino population remains critically endangered due to poaching and habitat loss. According to the WWF, the global rhino population has plummeted from 500,000 in the early 20th century to just 27,000 today. Black, Javan, and Sumatran rhinos are all listed as critically endangered, underscoring the urgent need for continued protection.
However, conservation initiatives have seen success in recent years. The population of Indian rhinos has grown from 200 in the early 1900s to around 4,000 today, while black rhinos have doubled in number over the last two decades. Hublot’s continued support of SORAI plays a vital role in sustaining these efforts. Founded in 2018, SORAI brings together businesses, conservationists, and local communities to protect keystone species across Africa and India. Among its key partners is *Care for Wild*, a South African organization that rescues and rehabilitates orphaned and injured rhinos.
SORAI also supports anti-poaching programmes, which are critical in addressing the complex socio-economic factors driving poaching. The *Spirit of Big Bang SORAI* features a 42mm case crafted from micro-blasted and polished “warm grey” ceramic, echoing the texture and colour of rhino skin. The watch comes with two strap options: a grey fabric strap and a black rubber strap with a grey and beige camouflage pattern. Powered by the HUB6020 Manufacture calibre, the hand-wound, skeletonized tourbillon movement offers a five-day power reserve and features an asymmetrical display, with a time display at 3 o’clock and a power reserve indicator between 8 and 9 o’clock. With just 30 pieces available, the *Spirit of Big Bang SORAI* continues Hublot’s legacy of supporting meaningful causes through innovative design and craftsmanship.
