andrewluff
[Hublot Moderator]
4089
Baselworld 2016 - Classic Fusion Berluti (Live Pictures)
During Baselworld we always see lots of new partnerships announced by the big brands, but this one got my interest and before putting my hands on the watches I must admit that I was a little sceptical of how this partnership would work. Why? Well Hublot is known for its cutting edge design, oversized cases and the use of new materials ... Berluti on the other hand is a fourth generation shoemaker which has been in existence since 1895 and who produce some of the worlds best shoes. In other words they are worlds apart.
I can already hear Jean-Claude Biver in my mind shout the world 'Fusion'... take 2 models our of the classic fusion range and inject some berluti spirit with a real leather dial and beautiful custom strap.
Does it work? What do you think from these pictures of the actual pieces.
They are both 45mm in diameter and as you can see from the pictures, the King Gold version has the brown 'Scripto' engraving and the hand finished brown dial. The Black version features the black ceramic case, black leather dial and 'Gaspar Leather' nero strap.
The details and texture of the dials is really very interesting, more on the brown due to the beautiful coloration of the dial. As you can see all the details have been stamped into the dial, a really nice touch.
In the right light, the brown dial is amazing...
and on the wrist...
In conclusion, this partnership works in my mind to create a stunning piece. For me it has to be the brown and gold combination (sort of reminds me of the first Fuente watch by Hublot), the colours work so well together and gives a beautiful warm glow.
Technically there are no changes to the watch, it has the normal classic fusion case and is powered by HUB110 with a 42 hour power reserve but that doesn't matter as you really are getting something special. For the full press release click on this link to the New Central.
Cheers
Andrew
Baselworld 2016 - Classic Fusion Berluti (Live Pictures)
During Baselworld we always see lots of new partnerships announced by the big brands, but this one got my interest and before putting my hands on the watches I must admit that I was a little sceptical of how this partnership would work. Why? Well Hublot i...
Leather dial? This is sooo unique a combo, or rather, fusion!
To me, they have done it again. This will be a big hit at least in Japan where Berluti is sooo popular! Thanks for the live report, Andrew! Ken
I had heard...
They it had already sold out to retailers and they were backing up with orders... Berluti is really flying at the moment globally with their shoes and leather goods. Personally, I would love to see a berluti blue edition... WOW! (with an orange hand) Chee...
I almost forget the best part!!!!
It does not come with just an ordinary box which sits in a cupboard.. this comes with so much more! and of course... you need a leather care kit and a beautiful travel case. My only wish is that the box could be dual use so that you could easily take out ...
Berluti fan would love Hublot Classic Fusion Berluti :-)
Great, great box. Many people throw away boxes, but not this one!
Ever the Sceptical....
I wear those Berluti Scripto shoes and until now, never would have thought of a watch design derived from my shoes!?! Sure, various brands have tried to sell "cigar" brown dials and some with actual cigars in the dual-function humidor watch boxes. This Hu...
Wow the dial is a killer!
Especially the one in the magic gold. I bet this will be a very successful partnership between Hublot and Berlutti Thanks for the live pics Andrew! Cheers Robin
I disagree with most...whilst the watch is not bad ,the collaboration is a no no..
Being a Berluti fan and collector across the whole of their offerings,I find this partnership a bit disappointing. The result is a novelty watch and ,at least to me,put me off Berluti rather than enhancing my appreciation for both brands.... Its a no for ...
I agree Mo, it is definitely a novelty...
but I also think the result is pleasing on the eye, the leather dial really is beautiful and well executed (I am not as you know a big fan of the script on the shoes or on the strap). Whether or not it is a partnership made in heaven is another question a...
Frankly speaking, I was not seduced by this one.
I think that the co-branding doesn't work here and I didn't get the magic of the watch. I would buy any Italia Independent watch but the Berluti didn't manage to seduce me. Anyway, thanks Andrew for the great pics! Fx