Swiss watchmaker Hublot has launched a limited-edition timepiece with a strap made from Desserto‘s cactus-based material. The collaboration adds another application for this plant-based material and shows how designers are incorporating alternatives to conventional leather into luxury products.

Limited Edition For The Mexican National Football Team

Ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Hublot unveiled the Classic Fusion Chronograph SNM Titanium, a limited edition of 100 watches honouring the Mexican National Football Team.

The 42 mm titanium chronograph features a sunray green dial inspired by the team’s jersey. The Selección Nacional de México (SNM) logo appears on both the dial and the sapphire crystal caseback. According to Hublot, the design reflects the brand’s long-standing connection with football and Mexico’s role as one of the host nations of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Desserto supplied the green cactus-based material for the watch strap. The company developed the material in Mexico and based it on the prickly pear cactus, one of the country’s best-known national symbols.

A Plant-Based Alternative

Desserto developed its cactus-based material as an alternative to conventional leather and fossil-based synthetic materials. The company markets the vegan material for fashion, automotive interiors, interior products and accessories.

The collaboration with Hublot extends these applications to luxury watchmaking. It also highlights the growing interest in biobased materials for premium consumer products.

Hublot presented the watch at the headquarters of the Mexican Football Federation. Former Mexican international footballers Oribe Peralta and Braulio Luna attended the launch event. They spoke about the importance of precision, timing and discipline in professional football.

Growing Applications

Material developers continue to introduce bio-based alternatives for products that traditionally rely on leather or plastics. Collaborations between manufacturers and brands show how these materials are finding applications in a wider range of consumer products.

Source & photos: Desserto