Hublot has consistently pushed the boundaries of horological design and innovation. From its disruptive beginnings, pairing gold with a rubber strap, to the iconic Big Bang series and beyond,
Hublot has cultivated a reputation for bold aesthetics and technical prowess. This philosophy, known as the "Art of Fusion," seamlessly blends tradition with cutting-edge materials and movements. The brand's commitment to being "First, Unique, and Different" has led to a diverse range of collections, each showcasing Hublot's mastery of materials like Magic Gold, vibrant ceramics, and sapphire, as well as its expertise in crafting in-house movements.
Now, in a tribute to the historic city of Lucerne, Switzerland, Hublot introduces the Classic Fusion Chronograph Boutique Lucerne. This timepiece is far from ordinary; It is a horological homage to Lucerne's iconic Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge), the oldest covered wooden bridge in Europe, and an enduring emblem of the city's rich history. The watch encapsulates more than just time; it embodies the spirit of a landmark deeply intertwined with the soul of Lucerne, a symbol of resilience and cultural significance. This dedication to heritage has been done before by the brand, but it has been reimagined, just like the classic fusion collection.
Courtesy of Hublot
The case of the Classic Fusion Chronograph Boutique Lucerne is crafted from brushed titanium, chosen for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio. Measuring 45mm in diameter and 13.4mm in thickness, the case presents a substantial yet comfortable presence on the wrist. The brushed finish lends a subtle, industrial aesthetic that complements the watch's overall design. The case is water-resistant to 5 ATM, or approximately 50 meters, offering protection against accidental splashes or brief immersion.
The bezel, also constructed from brushed blackened aged titanium, further accentuates the watch's refined ruggedness. It is secured by Hublot's signature six H-shaped screws, a hallmark of the brand's design language. These screws, meticulously aligned, are not merely functional; they are an integral part of Hublot's distinctive aesthetic. The choice of blackened titanium provides a subtle contrast to the lighter hue of the brushed titanium case, adding depth and visual interest.
However, the dial of the Classic Fusion Chronograph Boutique Lucerne is where the watch truly comes into its own. It features a captivating wood marquetry motif, carefully inlaid on a carbon fiber plate. This intricate design is not simply a visual flourish; it is a direct reference to the wooden structure of the Chapel Bridge itself. What elevates this detail to an extraordinary level is the source of the wood: it is sourced directly from the burned remnants of the bridge following the devastating fire of 1993. Each sliver of wood carries within it a tangible piece of Lucerne's history, making the dial a poignant reminder of the city's resilience. The chronograph subdials, subtly integrated into the wood marquetry, maintain the dial's clean and balanced aesthetic.
Courtesy of Hublot
Turning the watch over reveals the case back, which features an engraved inscription that reads "Special Edition Lucerne Boutique." More than just a designation, the case back boasts an intricate metallic rendering of the Chapel Bridge. This detailed depiction further reinforces the watch's connection to Lucerne and its iconic landmark, offering a subtle yet impactful artistic touch.
The Classic Fusion Chronograph Boutique Lucerne is powered by the HUB1143 self-winding chronograph movement. This reliable caliber beats at a frequency of 4 Hz (28,800 vibrations per hour) and boasts a power reserve of approximately 48 hours. Composed of 280 individual components and 59 jewels, the HUB1143 is a testament to Hublot's commitment to in-house movement manufacturing.
The strap of the watch is a vintage-inspired brown leather, perfectly complementing the warm tones of the wood marquetry dial and the brushed titanium case. The strap, however, has a layer of black rubber on the inside to fuse together tradition with mordernity. The combination of classic materials and modern design echoes Hublot's "Art of Fusion" philosophy. The clasp is a brushed blackened aged stainless steel and black-plated stainless steel deployant buckle clasp, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit on the wrist. This buckle is an example of the high-quality materials that went into crafting this timepiece.
Courtesy of Hublot
Hublot's connections extend beyond watchmaking, encompassing partnerships in football, art, music, and environmental initiatives. The brand's involvement in projects like SORAI and Polar Pod reflects its broader commitment to social responsibility. The Classic Fusion Chronograph Boutique Lucerne continues this tradition, with Hublot pledging to contribute to the preservation of the Chapel Bridge itself.
The watch, available on Valentine’s Day 2025, is meant to signify Hublot’s love for the beautiful and iconic city of Lucerne. The burned wood marquetry of the watch is meant to capture moments in time like the bridge does to the people’s hearts. The intricate marquetry and attention to detail makes the watch more special for this dedication. This watch is not merely a timepiece; it's a wearable piece of Lucerne's history. It’s a testament to the artistry and history that are fused together by Hublot.
The Classic Fusion Chronograph Boutique Lucerne is exclusively available at Hublot Boutiques in Switzerland, specifically in Lucerne, Zurich, Zermatt, and Geneva. This limited availability adds to the watch's exclusivity and desirability.
Courtesy of Hublot
Hublot's commitment to being "First, Unique, and Different" is evident in every detail of this timepiece. From the use of reclaimed wood from the Chapel Bridge to the intricate metallic rendering on the case back, the watch is a testament to Hublot's dedication to innovation and craftsmanship. The case, the movement, the special dial, and the strap, all come together to be a perfect match. Every small detail is accounted for by Hublot.
The dial, with its wood marquetry, is not simply a decorative element. The careful arrangement of the wood pieces creates a textured surface that plays with light and shadow, adding depth and dimension to the dial. The chronograph subdials, discreetly positioned, maintain the dial's legibility without disrupting its overall harmony.
The HUB1143 movement, while not visible through a display case back, is nonetheless a crucial component of the watch's appeal. Its reliable performance and robust construction ensure that the Classic Fusion Chronograph Boutique Lucerne is not just a beautiful object but also a precise and dependable timekeeping instrument. This is important when purchasing a Hublot watch, the movement is always a point of emphasis.
The choice of a vintage-inspired brown leather strap is a fitting complement to the watch's overall aesthetic. The supple leather, combined with the blackened aged titanium case, exudes a sense of refined ruggedness. The strap's comfortable fit and secure clasp ensure that the watch remains securely on the wrist, whether worn for a casual outing or a more formal occasion.
Courtesy of Hublot
The brushed blackened aged stainless steel and black-plated stainless steel deployant buckle clasp is a testament to Hublot's attention to detail. Even the smallest components of the watch are crafted with precision and care. The clasp's secure closure ensures that the watch remains safely attached to the wrist, while its brushed finish complements the overall aesthetic of the timepiece.
The Classic Fusion Chronograph Boutique Lucerne is priced at 17,500 USD. The watch is only available in Hublot Boutiques in Lucerne, Zurich, Zermatt and Geneva. The price reflects the watch's unique materials, intricate craftsmanship, and limited availability, positioning it as a premium offering within Hublot's Classic Fusion collection. This pricing is a part of Hublot's commitment to being a luxury brand and a celebration of tradition.
Case: Brushed Blackened Aged Titanium. Diameter: 45 MM. Thickness: 13.4 MM. Water resistance: 5 ATM / 50 M. Brushed Blackened Aged Titanium Bezel.
Movement: HUB1143 Self-winding Chronograph. Frequency: 4 (28'800 A/H). Power reserve: 48 hours. Number of components: 280. Jewels: 59.
Dial: Whit Wood from the old Lucerne Bridge and Carbon Fibers. Wood Marquetry Inlay.
Strap: Black Rubber and Vintage Brown Calf. Brushed Blackened Aged Stainless Steel and Black-plated Stainless Steel Deployant Buckle Clasp.
Price: 17'500 USD
Reference Number: 521.NX.1770.VR.BHL25
Notes: Exclusive to Hublot Boutiques in Switzerland. Features wood marquetry on dial using wood sourced from the burned remains of Lucerne's Chapel Bridge. Case back features a metallic rendering of the Chapel Bridge.