Hublot commemorates its 46-year heritage with the introduction of the Classic Fusion Tributo timepieces, a collection that marks a significant evolution in the brand's offerings. These new models move away from the previously used Sellita movements, incorporating an advanced caliber derived from Zenith's esteemed Elite movement. This upgrade addresses a long-standing point of discussion among enthusiasts regarding the internal mechanisms of many Classic Fusion watches, signifying a notable enhancement in their horological credibility.
The Classic Fusion Tributo collection celebrates Hublot's foundational design philosophy, which audaciously paired a gold case with a rubber strap—a revolutionary concept at its inception in 1980. This combination was initially met with skepticism by the conservative luxury watch community, yet it presciently set a trend that many established brands would eventually adopt. Carlo Crocco, the founder of MDM Genève (the original entity behind the Hublot watch), played a crucial role in shaping this distinctive aesthetic, which challenged conventional tastes and forged a new path in luxury watchmaking.
These watches are presented in two luxurious variations: an 18k yellow gold model featuring a matte black dial, and an 18k white gold version distinguished by a glossy black onyx dial. Both options boast a larger 38mm case, an increase from the original 36mm, a change that, while subtle, optimizes the watch's presence on the contemporary wrist. The design thoughtfully integrates the twelve domed screws on the bezel, which also serve as subtle hour markers, maintaining the iconic visual elements of the original Hublot. This thoughtful blend of historical reverence and modern refinement ensures that the Classic Fusion Tributo models resonate with both long-time admirers and new collectors.
At the heart of the Classic Fusion Tributo models lies the Hublot HUB1711 caliber, an iteration of the robust Zenith 670 movement, which itself descends from the Zenith 680 platform dating back to 1994. Despite its vintage foundation, the HUB1711 has undergone continuous improvements, resulting in an extended 60-hour power reserve facilitated by an optimized gear train. The movement operates at a frequency of 4Hz and features an oscillating weight crafted from either yellow gold or black tungsten, corresponding to the watch's gold variation. While it does not include a silicon balance spring or escapement, the watches come with a comprehensive 5+5-year warranty, underscoring Hublot's commitment to quality and durability. The watches command a price of $36,000 USD, positioning them as a premium offering in the luxury timepiece market.
Ultimately, the Hublot Classic Fusion Tributo collection is a striking homage to the groundbreaking MDM Genève Hublot of 1980. These timepieces, with their refined proportions and meticulous finishing, not only honor the bold aesthetic that once disrupted traditional horology but also integrate contemporary mechanical advancements. The Classic Fusion Tributo watches stand as a testament to Hublot’s enduring legacy of innovation and distinctive style.
