Hublot Big Bang Referee smartwatch is made for the 2018 FIFA World Cup

Swiss watchmaker Hublot has unveiled a Wear OS smartwatch designed specifically for the 2018 FIFA World Cup, and it's called the Big Bang Referee 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia. "It was a specific need expressed by FIFA," the company says, "and Hublot brought it to life!" The wearable will be used by the game referees, though a limited number of units will also be made available to the public starting May 1.

The Big Bang Referee 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia wearable is Hublot's first smartwatch. According to the company, which plans to sell only 2,018 units to the public, this model retains the same attributes found on the regular Big Bang model, but adds Google's Wear OS and related hardware. The iconic design boasts 32 dials, each made to resemble participating countries' flags.

The new model keeps wearers up-to-date on World Cup matches via a variety of features, including vibrations and the world "GOAL" whenever is a score takes place. While a match is underway, Hublot says users will be able to view match statistics, card numbers, goal-scorers' names, match time, and any player substitutions.

In addition, Hublot's smartwatch will notify wearers 15-minutes before a match starts and about any yellow/red cards that have been issued. Of course, users can also download any number of apps designed for Google's wearable platform. The watch is compatible with iOS 9 and higher and Android 4.4 or greater. The device charges via a wireless contact charger.

Joining the colorful face are two straps, both included with the watch, the first a cuff strap in sponge with the 2018 FIFA World Cup emblem and Hublot emblem, the second a natural rubber strap with a black lining. The variants used by referees will be linked with goal-line tech for helping determine whether the ball made it over the line. Sales will be available globally starting May 1 with a price around $5,000 USD. Watch specs are below:

Diameter:

49 mm

Case:

Titanium, satin-finish

Bezel:

Titanium, satin-finish

Water Resistant:

5 ATM (50 m)

Screen:

35.4 mm diameter

400 x 400 pixels, 287 ppi

AMOLED

Sensors:

Accelerometer

Gyroscope

Tilt detector

Microphone

Vibration

Haptic motor

GPS

SOURCE: Hublot