Review: Hublot Classic Fusion Original 42 mm in Yellow Gold

Hands-on review of the Hublot Classic Fusion Original 42 mm with live pics. Price: €25,200

It was 1980 when Carlo Crocco launched the Hublot, originally the name of the watch, not yet that of the brand which was MDM Geneve. The name "Hublot" was chosen for the distinctive shape of the bezel which resembles a ship's porthole ("hublot" in French).  

This watch shook all conventions by pairing precious gold to the first natural rubber strap in the history of watchmaking. It was a huge success. Over the following decades, the unique style of the first Hublot has been proposed in a variety of materials and features becoming a proper symbol of Hublot's "Art of Fusion" approach to watchmaking.

 

Last January, the Nyon-based watchmaker brought back the 1980 design presenting the Hublot Classic Fusion Original in three materials - titanium, black ceramic or yellow gold - and three sizes (33, 38 and 42 mm), for a total of nine references (you can read our introductory article here).

 

We recently had the opportunity to spend a few days with the 42 mm version in 18k yellow gold and we are now delighted to share our impressions and pictures. 

The case of the Classic Fusion Original has beautiful proportions with a diameter of 42 mm and a total height of 10 mm. Its lines are well highlighted by the alternation of satin-finished and polished surfaces. The bezel, with vertically satin-finished flats and chamfered polished flanks, is attached to the case by six visible and functional H-shaped screws in titanium. 

The visible gasket in black rubber between case and bezel enhances the casual-chic look of the watch. The crown is engraved by the recurring H of Hublot.

Four more screws are used to secure the strap to the case. Made of black rubber, the strap is a key element of this model and contributes to define its strong character. It is equipped with a triple deployant clasp featuring double safety push buttons and made of 18k yellow gold and black-plated titanium.

Thanks to the smoothness of the strap and the curved lugs, the watch will sit very comfortably on most wrists (the one in our pictures is 17.7cm/7in).

Well protected by a flat sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment, the black lacquered and polished dial provides a clear contrast to the gold faceted hour/minute hands and applied Hublot and H logo. The central seconds hand bears the H logo whose continuous sweeping around the dial creates fascinating choreographies. A small date aperture completes the minimalist ensemble.

The mechanical self-winding Calibre HUB1110 and its openworked winding rotor with black lacquered Hublot logo is visible through the sapphire crystal case back. 

Beating at a frequency of 4 Hz (28,800 vibrations per hour), this movement offers a power reserve of 42 hours.Water resistance is guaranteed up to a pressure of 5 ATM (50 metres / 165 feet).

The Hublot Classic Fusion Original 42 mm boasts a strong identity and impeccably executed finishes. Depending on the material version you choose, such as titanium, black ceramic or yellow gold, its distinctive style can lean more towards sportiness or elegance.

Out of the three 42 mm models available in the range, the yellow gold version we reviewed (ref. 542.VX.1230.RX.MDM), is undoubtedly the most luxurious and carries a suggested retail price of Euro 25,200 / US$ 24,100. In comparison, the titanium (ref. 542.NX.1270.RX.MDM) and black ceramic (ref. 542.CX.1270.RX.MDM) references are priced at Euro 8,600 / US$ 8,200 and Euro 10,400 / US$ 10,000, respectively. hublot.com