These days Hublot is a byword for bold, unapologetic watchmaking – just look at the awesome insanity of the MP-10 Tourbillon. However, every so often they present a watch that remembers it is possible to understated and dare I say even suave. The most recent example of which would be the Hublot Classic Fusion Centenary – WOSG Exclusive watch produced for the Watches of Switzerland 100th Anniversary.
It’s based on the pared back edition of the Classic Fusion with a polished black lacquer dial without any hour markers or time indicators. Instead the central hour, minute and seconds hands float above an inky void dressed only with the Hublot logo and a date window at 3 o’clock. It reminds me of a shiny interpretation of the Vanta and Musuo black dials seen from brands like H. Moser and Boldr, which also have the black dial without adornment look.
What makes the Centenary edition stand out from the core collection of the Classic Fusion is the case. It measures 42mm in diameter in titanium with a frosted carbon fibre bezel. It’s the first time the Classic Fusion has been dressed with a bezel in this material, fixed to the rest of the watch with six visible H-screws. The material has a cool dappled pattern, a product of the forged carbon process which creates chaotic and random layers, in contrast to carbon fibre or TPT where the layers are uniform.
The visual impression almost reminds me of urban camouflage, which itself feels like motif right up Hublot’s alley. It works really well on the Classic Fusion because it blends the more refined aspects of the design with that typical boldness expected of the brand in a well-balanced manner.
Beneath the surface is the HUB1110 automatic movement with 42-hour power reserve. The Hublot Classic Fusion Centenary – WOSG Exclusive is priced at £10,300 in a limited edition of 50 pieces. It’s also exclusive to Watches of Switzerland as the two brands come together to share their connection to the watch industry. Although Hublot is the much younger and more bombastic sibling of the two.
Price and Specs:
More details at Watches of Switzerland.
