Hublot Unveils The New Classic Fusion Original Lineup At LVMH Watch Week 2023
Back in 1980, Carlo Crocco shocked the watch industry by releasing the first Hublot watch. It combined a case in yellow gold with a black rubber strap. This combination was deemed blasphemous by the traditionalists. Until then, rubber had been perceived as a material used for cheap, mass-produced quartz watches. But Crocco’s idea turned out to be a visionary one and, over time, became an industry standard. To remind us of that very special first Hublot watch, the brand introduces the new Hublot Classic Fusion Original in three different materials and three different sizes. It shows that Crocco’s creation is as relevant and exciting as ever!
To me, the Hublot Classic Fusion is one of the industry’s great watches, and not just because of the revolutionary combination of materials that Carlo Crocco introduced. The minimalist design that Crocco came up with is instantly recognizable, and it looks as fresh and exciting as it did over four decades ago. With the introduction of the new Hublot Classic Fusion Original, we are reminded of that once again. Three years ago, Hublot released the Classic Fusion 40 Years Anniversary Limited Editions. Back then, three 45mm Classic Fusion models in yellow gold, black ceramic, and titanium were released in small, limited batches to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the brand’s debut model.
The new Classic Fusion Original lineup
In a new step to celebrate the Classic Fusion, Hublot announces the introduction of that same trio in smaller sizes. This time around, they are not limited in numbers. To me, this is a great move because a 45mm Classic Fusion is probably not what most people are after. With buyers gravitating towards smaller sizes nowadays, the introduction of three smaller sizes shows that Hublot is listening. Furthermore, I believe that the elegant Classic Fusion design works best in smaller sizes. So what does the new lineup look like?
The new Classic Fusion Original will be available in 18K yellow gold, black ceramic, and titanium. All three different materials will see versions in 42mm, 38mm, and 33mm cases. Of the three different sizes, the two bigger models will be mechanical, whereas the smallest 33mm models will be quartz-powered. That gives us a total of nine different models that will, undoubtedly, attract many fans, especially considering that all three are slim and comfortable to wear. The 42mm version is 10mm thick, the 38mm is 9.85mm thick, and the 33mm quartz version is a very slim 8.5mm thick. All of them are water resistant to 50 meters, which is more than enough in any situation where you would make a style statement.
The power of great design
At first glance, the 18K yellow gold versions still make my heart beat the fastest. They are a great reminder of the original Hublot watch from 1980. On top of that, the combination of yellow gold and rubber is still the most disruptive. But I must say that the titanium version is also quite stunning in all its monochromatic simplicity. It celebrates the same minimalist design in great, modern fashion. In line with the 40th-anniversary models, Hublot has used its updated Classic Fusion case design rather than reintroducing the original case. This one feels modern thanks to its angular lugs and construction with black details wedged between the bezel and mid-case.
The bezel is wider than the original bezel and features six screws instead of twelve. The hands are also thicker, and Hublot used its current logo and the text “Swiss Made” to bring the black dial to life. A nice detail is the date window with its black date disc and white numerals. It blends in perfectly, and the white date indication corresponds nicely with the screws on the bezel and the case. Essentially, the modern update we know from the 40th-anniversary models proves that Hublot managed to update the Classic Fusion to modern standards while maintaining its original charm.
Two different calibers to power nine different models
Hublot uses its HUB1110 caliber inside the cases of the 38mm and 42mm versions. The caliber is based on the Sellita SW300-1, which operates at 28,800vph and has a 42-hour power reserve. For the 33mm versions, Hublot equips the Classic Fusion Original with its HUB2913 quartz movement with a battery life of 3–5 years. The choice of movements is in line with the existing Classic Fusion collection, proving that it is not for those looking for extraordinary calibers. The brand has other collections to cater to the crowd looking for a horological powerplay. The Classic Fusion collection is not about that. It is all about the celebration of style.
Pricing and initial thoughts on the new Hublot Classic Fusion Original collection
The titanium Classic Fusion Originals will come in at €6,800 for the 33mm model, €8,200 for the 38mm model, and €8,600 for the 42mm model. The stealthy black ceramic versions are priced at €7,600 for the 33mm model, €8,900 for the 38mm model, and €10,400 for the 42mm model. Lastly, the yellow gold variants carry prices of €18,600 for the 33mm model, €21,400 for the 38mm model, and €25,200 for the 42mm model.
When it comes to first impressions, I must say that the models in yellow gold take the cake for me. The 38mm version in particular is a great modern celebration of the original Hublot watch that Carlo Crocco introduced in 1980. But if you don’t want to spend over €20K to celebrate the original Hublot style, the titanium versions are great alternatives. I can’t wait to find out more in a hands-on of the new Hublot Classic Fusion Original. It’s great to see these being added to the permanent Hublot collection. The watches celebrate the great style of the watch that started it all for the brand.
Let us know your favorite of the new Classic Fusion Original models in the comments section. We’ll be back with more Hublot novelties in another article later on.
