Review: Hublot Classic Fusion Extra-Thin
Hublot makes no bones about the fact that its signature style is big, bold and overtly self-confident—it did, after all, name one of its most famous watch lines the ‘Big Bang’. In 2012, though, the brand did something that no one was quite expecting by unveiling the splendidly slim Classic Fusion Extra-Thin. It shook up what the watch community expected from Hublot—and proved that the brand wasn’t afraid to try new things. The result was something that encapsulated all of the dramatic impact that the brand is known for, while being enclosed in a stylishly thin and extremely wearable case.
Despite a fairly Hublot-standard diameter of 45mm, the in-house HUB1300 movement used in this piece is a mere 2.90mm thick—but nonetheless has a 90 hour power reserve. You get the best of both worlds—a dominating wrist presence that is sure to get you noticed, while the slimmer and subtler profile makes it perfect for everyday use.
The Classic Fusion Ultra-Thin is a watch for the purist—simple but effective, it tells the time and features only a seconds subdial at 7 o’clock. It might not be complicated, but what it does do, it does expertly well.
Ever since its inception, Hublot’s design ethos has been ‘the art of fusion’, and that’s exactly what the brand has accomplished with the superb skeleton dial of this piece. Skeleton watches have been around for centuries, showcasing the inner workings of traditional watchmaking to the delight of eager admirers. Hublot has created a contemporary spin on the classic open worked dial, however—making use of clean, modern lines and a monochrome colour theme.
Despite the intricacies of the skeleton dial, the brand has maintained an effortlessly legible dial with the substantial indices and thick, broad hands—reminiscent of the style of the earliest Hublot watches—and the brand’s logo sits neatly just below 12 o’clock. Available in both titanium and Hublot’s 18k King Gold, the watch comes on a black alligator strap with a rubber lining.
The Classic Fusion Ultra-Thin is a versatile addition to the Hublot stable. It was a break from tradition that obviously proved popular, as the brand also released a slightly smaller 42mm version of the Extra-Thin. Hublot is beloved for its signature ‘large and in charge’ style—but every now and then, a change can be a good thing.
Watch Spec | Classic Fusion Ultra-Thin
Case | Titanium Dimensions | 45mm Crystal | Synthetic sapphire Water Resistance | 50m Movement | HUB1300, manual Frequency | 21,600vph Power Reserve | 90 hours Strap | Alligator Functions | Time RRP | £12,600 | Shop Now
