Today we would like to share with you a look at one of our less communicated pieces, the 42mm edition of the Classic Fusion Classico Ultra-Think Skeleton.
The Classic Fusion collection was launched several years back as a more subdued line, in contrast with the Big Bang and King Power offerings. Bringing back some of the original design elements from Hublot’s earliest watches while still retaining the brand’s emphasis on new materials and futuristic aesthetics, the Classic Fusion is a veritable fusion of retro-chic and avant-garde cool.
Fast-forward to 2012 and Hublot unveils the Classico Ultra-Thin Skeleton, a new benchmark for the brand and Classic Fusion collection on several fronts. For one thing, it saw Hublot take a step in a new direction, away from the more high-profile Big Bangs and King Powers. It also marked the first time a non-complicated exclusive movement was used in the Classic Fusion line.
The Classico Ultra-Thin Skeleton was an instant success among Hublotistas, and has even garnered the attention of more seasoned collectors drawn more towards classical watches. However, some felt that the 45mm case diameter was a bit too large, and that’s where the 42mm version comes in.
The 42mm Classico Ultra-Thin Skeleton features an extra-slim Classic Fusion case, seen here in Titanium. Like the other Classic Fusion pieces, it is made of a multi-component case that foregoes the “sandwich” construction found on the Big Bang and King Power pieces. Like Hublot watches from the 80’s, the Classico features polished, curved sides with vertically satin-brushed central components as well as a brushed bezel. The Titanium “H” screws are polished to provide subtle contrast. On the Classico Ultra-Thin, the Classic Fusion case has been rendered even slimmer, with parts like the crown also being proportionally downsized.
To allow complete appreciation of the skeleton movement, Hublot opted for a transparent glass dial, adorned only with applied faceted hour markers and matching polished hands. The dial features an off-centered seconds sub-dial, where the printed circular track appears to float on top of the movement, as does the Hublot logo at 12 o’clock.
The movement is the HUB1300 caliber, designed by Hublot and made exclusively for the brand. Though an actual “skeleton” movement would usually imply a regular movement that has had parts cut out to give a more revealing, airy appearance, the Classico Ultra-Thin movement was designed and manufactured in this fashion from the ground up, so perhaps the term open-worked would be more fitting.
The movement itself is Hublot’s thinnest caliber to date, measuring a mere 2.90mm in height. Comprised of twin barrels, the movement is able to provide a power reserve of up to 9 hours, just short of 4 days. The movement is decorated with a “snail” pattern finish typical of dive watches; recalling Hublot’s nautical origins. The movement is treated in a light grey ruthenium finish. If you’re considering a more easily wearable first Hublot or are looking for a Hublot for those dressier occasions, give the 42mm Classico Ultra-Thin Skeleton a try.