Hublot Unveils the Classic Fusion Original Limited Edition

Photo: Fratellowatches

Despite being among the most well-known Swiss watchmakers worldwide, Hublot is still a relatively new company. A luxurious sports watch featuring an unparalleled blend of materials, particularly gold and rubber, was the catalyst for it all roughly four decades ago. Hublot is now bringing this vintage style back in three dimensions and three different components apiece.

Background 

The Italian businessman Carlo Crocco founded Hublot during the late 70s after leaving the Binda Group to start his wristwatch brand, MDM Genève. MDM was an abbreviation for Marie-Danielle Montres and, afterward, Montre Des Montres, the French name for the watch of all timepieces. 

In 1980, at Baselworld, Crocco launched a high-end sporting watch referred to as the Hublot (French term for porthole). The first edition was widely received, and the moniker was later adopted for the entire brand and was called the Classic Fusion.

Photo: Hublot – Classic Fusion

Generally, the 1970s served as a major source of inspiration for the Hublot Classic Fusion. The current premium sports timepiece featuring an integrated bracelet was invented during this era. Gérald Genta and Audemars Piguet established the style in 1972 with the Royal Oak, a sporting yet extravagantly created steel clock with a shaped casing and an integrated band. 

Furthermore, numerous upscale companies introduced their interpretations of the genre, such as the Nautilus from Patek Philippe, the 222 and Overseas from Vacheron Constantin, the Ingénieur from IWC, the Laureato from Girard-Perregaux, and so on. 

On the other hand, Crocco pioneered new ground for the high-end sports wristwatch. He even built his piece with an integrated rubber strap rather than a traditional bracelet. As a result, Hublot was among the first companies to try to blend gold with rubber. At that time, it was still completely unimaginable, but it ended up being successful.

Photo: Monochrome / The New Classic Fusion Limited

After joining Hublot in 2004, Jean-Claude Biver quickly enhanced the idea of merging materials with the spectacular Big Bang. Additionally, he expanded the company’s range through effective marketing. However, the company was later bought by LVMH in 2008.

The New Range of Classic Fusion Original Limited Edition

Hublot announced the release of a similar trio in small dimensions as a successive stage honoring the Classic Fusion. The good thing is that they aren’t restricted in quantity this round. This is thus a smart approach considering most individuals probably aren’t looking for a 45-millimeter Classic Fusion.

Photo: Fratellowatches

Additionally, the launch of 3 reduced sizes demonstrates that Hublot is paying attention to how clients are shifting toward smaller dimensions these days. Moreover, small sizes are where this classy Classic Fusion design excels. 

Overall, this brand-new Classic Fusion Original is offered in 18K yellow gold, titanium, and black ceramic. Editions of all 3 materials are available in 42mm, 38mm, and 33mm casings. Moreover, the two larger variants in the three dimensions are manual, while the 33mm variant is quartz-driven. Because of this, we now have a set of nine versions, all of which will certainly win over many enthusiasts, given that they are all sleek and cozy to wear.

Photo: Fratellowatches

The 33-millimeter quartz model is relatively thin, with a thickness of 8.5mm. On the other hand, the 42mm variant is 10mm wide, while the 38mm one is 9.85 millimeters thick. They are waterproof to a depth of 50 meters, making them more than suitable for any occasion where you wish to look your best.

The Impact of Excellent Design

The 18K yellow gold variants undeniably cause the hearts of many fans to pound fast at first glimpse. They serve as a wonderful remembrance of the first Hublot timepiece from 1980. Additionally, the most disrupting pairing remains the yellow gold and rubber. Even so, there’s no denying that the titanium edition, with its stark monochrome design, is also pretty attractive. It showcases the same simple design in a fantastic, contemporary style. 

Photo: Fratellowatches

Instead of reviving the original casing, Hublot has adopted its upgraded Classic Fusion casing design to correspond with the 40th-anniversary versions. It has angular lugs that give it a contemporary feel and is crafted with black accents tucked among the bezel as well as mid-case.

Likewise, the bezel is broader and has 6 screws in place of the initial 12. Additionally, the indexes are larger, and Hublot adorned the black dial with its modern emblem as well as the words “Swiss Made.” The date aperture’s black date ring and white numbers are also great details. The white date display matches the casing’s and bezel’s screws wonderfully and merges in flawlessly. In short, the 40th-anniversary variants’ modern upgrade shows that Hublot was able to modernize the Classic Fusion while retaining its vintage appeal.

Photo: Fratellowatches

The dual-fold fastening, a significant upgrade beyond the single-fold buckle typical for Hublot, is the Classic Fusion Original’s ultimate notable feature. In addition to being more comfortable, the double-fold clip also feels less heavy on the wrist. Furthermore, it makes it simpler to obtain a suitable fit. 

Movement

Both the 38 and 42-millimeter variants of the watches have Hublot’s HUB1110 caliber within the casings. The Sellita SW300-1, from which the caliber is derived, runs at 28,800 vibrations per hour and comes with a power reserve of 42 hours. Hublot additionally fits the Classic Fusion Original in 33mm sizes with its HUB2913 quartz movement, which has a battery capacity of three to five years. 

Photo: Monochrome

It is clear from the selection of movements that Hublot Classic Fusion isn’t for customers searching for unusual calibers. This is because they are in line with the current Classic Fusion series. However, the company offers further selections for people seeking a horological powerplay. It’s not just the focus of the Classic Fusion range; instead, everything revolves around appreciating the style. 

Conclusion

In contrast to the Big Bang and its brothers, Hublot’s Classic Fusion Original series is more traditional, elegant, and far less aggressive. It seems opulent but uncomplicated, which makes it ideal for everyday wear. The structure and DNA of these new models have also been elegantly modernized. 

Photo: Monochrome

Although the movement is just ordinary, the whole construction is sturdy, and this dependable workhorse maintains precise time. Additionally, the watch fits nicely on the wrist, and with three sizes to choose from, everyone will certainly find their ideal fit.