In the world of haute horlogerie, where time is both a relentless force and an object of exquisite craftsmanship, certain timepieces transcend their functional purpose to become symbols of heritage, innovation, and enduring partnerships. The
Hublot Classic Fusion Centenary Special Edition is one such timepiece, a horological masterpiece that commemorates a century of Watches of Switzerland's legacy while paying homage to Hublot's pioneering spirit.
This exclusive timepiece, limited to a mere 50 pieces worldwide, is a testament to the enduring collaboration between these two horological powerhouses. It is a fusion of classic design and contemporary materials, a symphony of tradition and innovation, and a celebration of a partnership that has shaped the landscape of luxury watchmaking.
Courtesy of Hublot
Before delving into the intricacies of this exceptional timepiece, it's imperative to understand the rich tapestry of Hublot's history. Founded in 1980 by the visionary Carlo Crocco, Hublot burst onto the horological scene with a disruptive concept: the fusion of precious metals and rubber. This audacious combination, embodied in the brand's inaugural timepiece, challenged the prevailing norms of luxury watchmaking and set the stage for Hublot's future trajectory.
The brand's name, derived from the French word for "porthole," is a nod to the distinctive design of its first watch, which featured a circular case reminiscent of a ship's window. This nautical inspiration, coupled with the innovative use of materials, laid the foundation for Hublot's "Art of Fusion" philosophy, a guiding principle that continues to inform its creations to this day.
Over the years, Hublot has consistently pushed the boundaries of horological innovation, introducing groundbreaking materials such as Magic Gold, a scratch-resistant alloy, and brightly colored ceramics. The brand's commitment to technical excellence is further exemplified by its in-house movements, including the Unico chronograph and the Meca-10, which showcase Hublot's mastery of complex complications.
Watches of Switzerland, established in 1924, has played a pivotal role in shaping the UK's luxury watch retail landscape. With a network of showrooms across the UK, US, and Europe, the group represents a curated selection of prestigious brands, including Hublot.
Over the past century, Watches of Switzerland has cultivated a reputation for its unparalleled expertise, exceptional customer service, and unwavering commitment to horological excellence. The group's centenary marks a significant milestone, a testament to its enduring legacy and its pivotal role in fostering the appreciation of fine watchmaking.
At the heart of this commemorative timepiece lies the Classic Fusion collection, a cornerstone of Hublot's portfolio. Inspired by the brand's inaugural timepiece, the Classic Fusion embodies a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. Its rounded case, functional H-shaped screw fastening, striking bezel, and signature black rubber strap create a distinctive aesthetic that is instantly recognizable.
Courtesy of Hublot
The Classic Fusion collection has evolved over the years, incorporating new materials and complications while remaining true to its core design principles. This adaptability, coupled with its timeless elegance, has made the Classic Fusion a beloved icon in the world of luxury watchmaking.
The Hublot Classic Fusion Centenary Special Edition is a visual symphony, a harmonious blend of classic design and contemporary materials. Its 42mm case, crafted from satin-finished and polished titanium, exudes a refined elegance. The bezel, adorned with eight H-shaped polished titanium screws, is a testament to Hublot's meticulous attention to detail.
The watch's dial, rendered in a deep, lustrous black, provides a striking contrast to the titanium case. It is a canvas of minimalist beauty, with rhodium-plated hands and hour markers that gleam against the dark backdrop. The date window, positioned at 3 o'clock, adds a touch of functionality without disrupting the dial's clean lines.
The black rubber strap, a hallmark of Hublot's design language, echoes the brand's pioneering spirit. It is a testament to the Art of Fusion, seamlessly blending tradition and innovation. The titanium and black-plated titanium deployment buckle ensures a secure and comfortable fit.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Hublot Classic Fusion Centenary Special Edition boasts a wealth of technical features that underscore its horological prowess. The watch is powered by the self-winding HUB1110 movement, a testament to Hublot's in-house expertise. This reliable and precise caliber offers a 42-hour power reserve, ensuring that the watch keeps ticking even when not in use.
Courtesy of Hublot
The open caseback provides a glimpse into the intricate workings of the movement, showcasing its meticulous finishing and decorative elements. It is a testament to Hublot's commitment to transparency and its desire to share the beauty of its mechanical creations with the wearer.
The caseback also features a special engraving commemorating Watches of Switzerland's centenary and the enduring partnership between the two brands. This inscription, along with the limited edition number, adds a touch of exclusivity and collectability to this already exceptional timepiece.
Let's turn our attention now to the beating heart of the Hublot Classic Fusion Centenary Special Edition: its movement. The HUB1110, a self-winding caliber developed in-house by Hublot, is a testament to the brand's commitment to technical excellence. This robust and reliable movement ensures accurate timekeeping and boasts a 42-hour power reserve, allowing the watch to continue ticking even after being set aside for a day and a half.
The HUB1110 is more than just a functional component; it's a work of art in its own right. The open caseback provides a window into this mechanical marvel, showcasing its intricate gears, springs, and bridges. The meticulous finishing and decorative elements, including Côtes de Genève stripes and perlage, elevate the movement to a level of haute horlogerie craftsmanship.
Courtesy of Hublot
One of the most striking features of the Classic Fusion Centenary Special Edition is its bezel, crafted from frosted carbon fiber. This high-tech material, renowned for its strength, lightness, and distinctive visual texture, adds a contemporary edge to the watch's classic design. It's a testament to Hublot's "Art of Fusion" philosophy, which seamlessly blends traditional watchmaking techniques with cutting-edge materials.
The use of carbon fiber is not merely aesthetic; it also serves a functional purpose. The material's inherent resistance to scratches and wear ensures that the bezel will retain its pristine appearance for years to come. It's a testament to Hublot's commitment to creating timepieces that are not only beautiful but also built to last.
The Hublot Classic Fusion Centenary Special Edition is not just a feast for the eyes; it's also a pleasure to wear. The black rubber strap, a signature element of Hublot's design language, offers exceptional comfort and flexibility. It's a nod to the brand's pioneering spirit, harkening back to the original Classic Fusion model that first introduced the world to the concept of a luxury watch with a rubber strap.
The titanium and black-plated titanium deployment buckle provides a secure and convenient closure. Its sleek design complements the watch's overall aesthetic, while its robust construction ensures that the watch stays firmly on the wrist.
With only 50 pieces available worldwide, the Hublot Classic Fusion Centenary Special Edition is a true collector's item. It's a timepiece that celebrates a century of horological heritage, a testament to the enduring partnership between Hublot and Watches of Switzerland. The special engraving on the caseback, commemorating this milestone, adds a touch of exclusivity and historical significance.
Courtesy of Hublot
This limited edition watch is not just a symbol of luxury; it's an investment in horological history. It's a timepiece that will be cherished by generations to come, a tangible reminder of a century of innovation, craftsmanship, and enduring partnerships.
The Hublot Classic Fusion Centenary Special Edition is available exclusively at selected Watches of Switzerland boutiques and online in the United Kingdom and United States. The retail price for this exceptional timepiece is $12,000 USD or £10,300 GBP.