Hublot is a Swiss luxury watch manufacturer founded in 1980 by Carlo Crocco, an Italian watchmaker who moved to Switzerland to establish his own company, MDM Genève. The brand immediately distinguished itself by launching the first luxury watch to feature a natural rubber strap, a concept that defied traditional horological norms of the era. This debut model, known as the Classic Original, featured a case design inspired by a ship’s porthole (hublot in French), complete with exposed screws, which has since become a hallmark of the brand’s aesthetic.
The brand is widely recognized for its “Art of Fusion” philosophy, a concept pioneered by former CEO Jean-Claude Biver. This approach emphasizes the combination of traditional Swiss watchmaking techniques with highly unconventional materials. Hublot is credited with being a leader in material science within the industry, utilizing elements such as ceramic, carbon fiber, titanium, sapphire, and their proprietary “Magic Gold,” which is a scratch-resistant 18-carat gold alloy. This focus on industrial and avant-garde design attracts collectors who value bold, high-performance timepieces that deviate from classical styles.
Hublot’s catalog is anchored by several iconic collections. The Big Bang, launched in 2005, is the brand’s flagship model and a significant driver of its modern success. It is characterized by its large proportions, multi-component “sandwich” case construction, and the use of the in-house Unico chronograph movement. Another pillar is the Classic Fusion, which offers a more streamlined and elegant reinterpretation of the original 1980 design, making it a popular choice for those seeking a more versatile daily watch. For more technical pursuits, the Spirit of Big Bang features a distinctive tonneau-shaped case, while the MP (Masterpiece) collection showcases extreme complications, such as the MP-05 LaFerrari with its 50-day power reserve. The brand also maintains a strong presence in the cultural sphere through high-profile collaborations in sports, particularly football and Formula One, and partnerships with renowned contemporary artists.
