Hublot has unveiled its latest collection, the Classic Fusion Tributo, a heartfelt tribute to the brand's foundational 1980 timepiece. This release marks a significant moment, bringing the revolutionary design of a gold watch paired with a rubber strap back into the contemporary spotlight. We delve into the origins of this pioneering concept with none other than its creator, Carlo Crocco, who, at 82 years old, reflects on his enduring legacy and the profound personal narrative woven into the fabric of Hublot's history.

The Enduring Legacy of Carlo Crocco and the Classic Fusion Tributo

In a recent interview conducted at Hublot's Nyon headquarters, just ahead of his 82nd birthday, Carlo Crocco shared his journey, revealing the inspirations behind his audacious 1980 design. This innovative creation, featuring a luxurious gold case paired with a casual rubber strap, was initially met with skepticism. Despite the doubts, Crocco's vision laid the groundwork for what would become a globally recognized brand.

The new Classic Fusion Tributo models, available in yellow and white gold, update the original 36mm quartz watch to a 38mm case size with Hublot's in-house automatic HUB1711 movement. The yellow gold variant notably revives the "MDM" emblem at 6 o'clock on the dial, a nod to MDM Genève, the company's original name. This revival is accompanied by Hublot's generous donation of CHF 100,000 to Crocco's Main dans la Main Foundation, underscoring the deep personal and philanthropic connections inherent in the brand's heritage.

Crocco recounted how the "MDM" initials, initially a tribute to his wife, Danielle Marie, and later representing "Montre des Montres" (watch of watches), evolved to signify "Main dans la Main" (hand in hand) after an encounter with Edmond Kaiser of Terre des Hommes. This phrase became the name of his children's foundation, established in 1998, symbolizing a commitment to helping children globally.

He vividly recalled the challenges of sourcing the unique rubber strap, working with an Italian engineer primarily involved in tire manufacturing to achieve the precise tolerances required for a watch. The famous addition of vanilla to the rubber, to mask its initial smell, is a detail that has since become part of Hublot's lore.

The initial reception at Baselworld 1980 was slow, but the watch eventually captivated attention, drawing high-profile admirers like King Constantine of Greece, Giorgio Armani, and other design luminaries. Crocco candidly admitted that the term "Art of Fusion" was coined much later by Jean-Claude Biver in 2004, emphasizing that his original intent was a simple, innovative combination of Swiss classicism and Italian design.

Reflecting on Hublot's current stature, Crocco expressed immense pride in the brand's global recognition, particularly appreciating its move towards in-house movement manufacturing. He stressed the importance of maintaining the brand's core DNA—the round shape, the rubber strap, the distinctive screws, and a commitment to a "warm minimalism" that characterized his initial vision.

The Classic Fusion Tributo not only celebrates Hublot's origins but also highlights the personal journey of its founder, whose innovative spirit and philanthropic endeavors continue to shape the brand's identity.

The re-release of the Hublot Classic Fusion Tributo is more than just a nod to the past; it's a profound statement on the enduring power of original vision and the unexpected paths innovation can forge. Carlo Crocco's story serves as a vivid reminder that true breakthroughs often arise from a willingness to challenge conventions, even when faced with skepticism. His initial foray into pairing precious gold with humble rubber was deemed "crazy" by many, yet it birthed a distinctive aesthetic that defined an era and continues to resonate today. This return to the roots, combined with modern horological advancements, suggests a harmonious balance between honoring heritage and embracing progress. It also powerfully illustrates how a product can transcend its commercial purpose to embody deeper personal values and philanthropic causes, as seen with the "Main dans la Main" foundation. For watch enthusiasts and innovators alike, it's a testament to the idea that authenticity and a clear, singular vision can indeed lead to lasting success and influence.