No watch company understands brand partnerships and how to use them quite as well as Hublot. Obviously, not everyone is going to appreciate these collaborations that span a wide range of products, interests, personalities, and activities. But certain combinations will resonate with certain consumers in a way that not much else does. Hublot’s association with fellow LVMH brand Berluti will likely go right over the heads of watch lovers who don’t get menswear. But for fans of Paris-based Berluti, which is known for leather footwear, the release of the new Hublot Classic Fusion Chronograph Berluti Scritto watch will make a lot of sense.
The new Hublot Classic Fusion Chronograph Berluti Scritto watches build upon the success of last year’s Classic Fusion Berluti watch. And like last year’s model, the new watches use Berluti’s distinctive patinated leathers for the straps as well as the dials, creating an effect of the strap continuing right through the watch for a very cohesive look.
Two models will be offered, one in 18k King Gold with a brown leather strap, and the other in black ceramic with a black leather strap. Case diameter is 45mm, and the case design is unchanged from the non-limited edition Classic Fusion Chronograph watches. In other words, the traits that define the Classic Fusion Chronograph case, like the H-shaped screws, integrated lugs, and differing finishes on the case, are all intact. Water resistance is rated at 50m.
The 18k King Gold model will get a brown strap and dial while the black ceramic model will get a black strap and dial – both are made using Berluti’s Venezia leather. The hues of the leather are achieved by using a special tanning technique, and the dial’s leather is specially treated to remove all moisture before it is cased. The Hublot logo as well as the hour markers on the dial are all embossed onto the leather.
Powering the watch is the trusty HUB1143, Hublot’s basic self-winding chronograph movement. It’s no integrated chronograph movement, but instead uses an ETA base and a chronograph module from Dubois Dépraz. Nevertheless, it runs at a thoroughly modern 4Hz and provides a power reserve of 42 hours, so even though it isn’t an in-house made and integrated chronograph movement, I don’t think that many will complain about its functionality.
The Hublot Classic Fusion Chronograph Berluti Scritto watches will come in a large presentation box that is lined with the Berluti’s Venezia leather. And inside, apart from the watch, owners will find wax and brushes to help keep their straps in tip-top condition.
At the end of the day, the new Classic Fusion Chronograph Berluti Scritto watch is, very much like its predecessor – a polarizing watch. People who “get it” will appreciate its design and crafts, while people who don’t will wonder what on earth Hublot is thinking. I can’t say that I’m into menswear or shoes in particular, but I can definitely appreciate the spirit behind these new watches and their unique and rather attractive looks. The Hublot Classic Fusion Chronograph Berluti Scritto in 18k King Gold will be limited to 250 pieces and will be priced at $36,700, while the Hublot Classic Fusion Chronograph Berluti Scritto in black ceramic will also be limited to 250 pieces and will be priced at $16,700. hublot.com
