Watch Paparazzi

Boxer Amir Khan spotted wearing Hublot

Amir Khan, the Bolton-born welterweight who claimed a WBA world title at just 22 and has long carried a reputation for extravagant taste both inside and outside the ring, was recently spotted wearing one of Hublot's most technically serious limited productions — the King Power Split Second King Gold Pavé, reference 709.OX.1780.RX.1704.

The King Power line, produced roughly between 2007 and 2014 before being phased out in favor of the Big Bang series, represented Hublot at its most architecturally imposing. The 48mm King Gold case — Hublot's proprietary 18k rose gold alloy with added platinum and copper for enhanced scratch resistance — is here set with a reported 1,704 diamonds across the bezel, lugs and dial. The reference 709.OX.1780.RX.1704 pairs that gem-setting work with a split-seconds rattrapante chronograph, powered by the HUB4700 caliber. That movement features a column wheel, vertical clutch, and the distinct rattrapante mechanism allowing two elapsed times to be measured simultaneously from a single start — a genuine horological achievement that separates this watch from purely decorative territory.

Among collectors, the King Power generation occupies an interesting position. Dismissed by purists during its production run as oversized and overtly commercial, select references — particularly those combining in-house complications with precious materials — have found renewed appreciation. The split-seconds variant was never produced in large numbers, and pavé-set examples represent a niche within a niche. Completist Hublot collectors and those focused on rattrapante complications from non-traditional manufactures have driven quiet but steady interest.

Khan's affinity for Hublot is well documented. The brand has historically maintained strong ties to combat sports through partnerships with boxing promoters and fighters, making it a natural fit for a world champion who has worn high-complication timepieces on numerous public occasions. The King Power's aggressive proportions suit Khan's public persona — unambiguous and impossible to overlook.

At UK retail the piece was listed at approximately £41,000, translating to roughly $52,000 USD at contemporaneous rates. On the secondary market, gem-set King Power references with in-house complications trade irregularly given limited supply; comparable examples have appeared at auction and through grey-market dealers in the $35,000–$55,000 range depending on condition and provenance.