Hublot's Classic Fusion Now in Striking Essential Grey
Hublot has made a name for itself with its Essential Grey treatment, transforming popular models into monochromatic masterpieces for collectors. Following the Big Bang Unico Essential Grey and the Spirit of Big Bang Essential Grey, Hublot now introduces the third installment: the Classic Fusion Essential Grey. For 2024, this annual tradition includes two Classic Fusion models in 42mm and 45mm sizes, both featuring titanium cases that enhance the sleek, monochrome aesthetic.
The new Essential Grey models are available in two sizes: 42mm and 45mm, each crafted from satin-brushed and polished titanium. These timepieces retain all the signature elements of the Classic Fusion collection, including an integrated bracelet, six external and functional screws with H-shaped heads on a satin-finished bezel, and a clean, time-and-date-only design. Uniquely, each case size houses a distinct movement tailored to its volume, a detail that sets Hublot apart. Both models come with a matching grey rubber and grey fabric strap, secured with a stainless steel deployant buckle. The dial is protected by an anti-reflective sapphire crystal, and the case back features a sapphire exhibition window.
The 42mm model boasts a case height of 10.4mm and is powered by the HUB1110 calibre. This movement features 25 jewels, operates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz), and offers a power reserve of 42 hours. The movement itself is a mere 3.61mm in height, perfectly suited to the smaller case. On the other hand, the 45mm model has a case height of 10.95mm and is equipped with the HUB1112 calibre, which is slightly thicker at 4.26mm. Both movements are based on the Sellita SW300-1 automatic, which itself is derived from ETA’s 2892A. The functions include central hours, minutes, hacking seconds, and date, with both models offering a water-resistance rating of 50 meters.
The dials of both models feature a grey sunburst finish with faceted applied indices. Matching baton-style hour and minute hands, along with a seconds hand featuring Hublot’s logo as a counterweight, complete the look. A date window is positioned at 3 o’clock. This design is notably simpler than Hublot’s typically bold offerings, including the other Essential Grey models, yet it pays homage to the Classic Fusion’s heritage as a 1970s-inspired integrated luxury sports watch, first introduced by the brand in 1980.
Despite the difference in case sizes, both models share the same price. They are available exclusively online and are part of Hublot’s permanent collection.