“Watch & Act!” Auction Item – Lot 5: A Hublot Classic Fusion, made unique

Time+Tide

Another watch conceived from scratch for the ‘Watch & Act!’ Auction, the Classic Fusion ‘Watch & Act!’ Unique Piece features a ceramic case, carbon fibre bezel and a shimmering blue dial. The case back is engraved with the words ‘Unique Piece’. Before we go on, here’s a quick primer on the Classic Fusion line: the collection, introduced in 2010, is intended as a slightly more subtle (dare we say dressier?) offering than the traditional Big Bang, while still possessing some of those indisputable Hublot hallmarks — the ‘H’ screws on the bezel, the solid end links on the strap, and those contrasting ‘ears’ on the case at three and six. It’s a softer Hublot, sure, but it’s still a Hublot.

It’s also an incredibly stylish watch. The blue dial is lush, like a midnight sky. The satin-finished sunray dial is a wonder to behold, reflecting light all over the place thanks to the polished, faceted markers and hands, not to mention the rich texture of the dial itself. The colour is beautifully picked up in the rubber-backed alligator strap, with colour-matched blue stitch. And then there’s the case itself: 45mm of ceramic, a mix of polish and vertical brush ensuring that checking the time is never dull. Visible through the back is Hublot’s HUB1143 movement, which comes with 50m of water resistance.

What we like about it

Andrew – I have to admit that over the years I’ve developed a borderline unhealthy attraction to Hublot watches. And this ticks the main box, which is a display of ‘the art of fusion’. Here, this Unique Piece fuses a carbon bezel with a ceramic case and a lush blue dial. The best, however, is saved for the back, where an insignia of two crossed firefighting axes remind you of what this watch has been created in aid of. A stunning act of generosity by Hublot, and an absolutely stunning result.

Nick – The Hublot Classic Fusion expresses some of the quintessential qualities that make the brand instantly recognisable from across the room, and this Unique Piece is no different. The starburst dial that pairs with the strap, broken up by the blend of ceramic case and carbon bezel makes this a special watch indeed. Plus, if anyone asks why you got it, you need only show them the case back.

James – Wow … just wow. Not only has Hublot generously donated this Classic Fusion Chronograph, which is an awesome watch in its own right, but the watchmaker will also only ever make one of this watch, for this auction. A genuine piece unique, and for a very deserving cause.

Features

Manufacturer: Hublot
Model Name: Classic Fusion Carbon Ceramic Blue Piece Unique
Year: 2019
Reference: Piece Unique
Material: Ceramic with carbon bezel
Dimensions: 45mm diameter
Calibre: HUB1143 automatic chronograph
Bracelet/Strap: Blue rubber and alligator with deployant clasp

View the lot right here.