When Carlo Crocco introduced the Classic Original, a quartz-powered gold watch on a rubber strap in 1980, he was defiantly going against several traditional norms in Swiss watchmaking at the time. But it proved to be an instant hit, setting the template for its meteoric rise in the world of haute horlogerie. Considering its relative youth in the world of watchmaking lorded over by brands that are centuries old, the niche that Hublot has carved for itself among the legacy brands is incredibly unique. And the foundations for this success story were laid by the Classic Original 43 years back.
Now the watchmaker has welcomed enthusiasts into 2023 with a Classic Fusion Original release that comes in three materials and three sizes. Presented in yellow gold, ceramic and titanium, the throwback model is available in case sizes 33mm, 38mm and 42mm. This opens the range up to a significantly wide section of watch lovers across different wrist sizes and sensibilities. Visually, the Classic Fusion Original keeps things close to the 1980 watch but also follows certain design elements from Hublot’s contemporary line, such as just six H-pattern screws on the bezel as against the 12-screw layout of the original. If you are one of those fence-sitters who loved Hublot as a brand but found the models in its current range a bit too busy, loud, or large, then the new Classic Fusion Original will have one combination that appeals to you.
Reminiscent of the original, the piano black dial is minimal, with no indices, and just the logo, the Hublot name, the ‘Swiss Made’ stamp at 6 o’clock and a date window breaking the flow. The 38mm and 42mm are powered by Hublot’s MHUB1110 movement, which is based on Sellita’s SW300-1 calibre, while the 33mm Classic Fusion Original is powered by a quartz movement. The Hublot Classic Fusion Original series is available now at authorised dealerships with prices starting at $6,500 for 33mm, $7,900 for 38mm, and $8,200 for 42mm models.
