The Controversial Grandmasters - Hublot

In the picturesque town of Nyon, Switzerland, a horological phenomenon was born in 1980. Hublot, a name derived from the French word for "porthole," was founded by the visionary Italian watchmaker, Carlo Crocco. This fusion of Italian design and Swiss craftsmanship marked the beginning of a brand that would rewrite the rules of luxury watchmaking.

 

Photo source: Hublot

 

Carlo Crocco's starts from his childhood in a family of watchmakers to the founder of Hublot was a testament to his passion and vision. He designed his first watch in 1967, laying the groundwork for what would become a pioneering legacy. By 1980, the Hublot company was officially established, and despite its relative youth in the Swiss watchmaking landscape, Hublot was already making waves comparable to industry giants like Rolex and Omega.

 

Photo source: Hublot

 

Hublot's journey wasn't an instant sprint to success, but rather a steady climb that eventually reached stratospheric heights. Underneath the unconventional exterior of Hublot watches lay a core philosophy—“the art of fusion.” This philosophy, spearheaded by Carlo Crocco, aimed to combine seemingly incompatible elements to create timepieces that are the definition of opulence and loud luxury. This unique approach set the brand on a trajectory of excellence that is still evident today.

 

Photo source: Hublot

 

The pivotal moment that would solidify Hublot's legacy happened in 1980, with the introduction of a gold watch featuring a new natural black rubber bracelet. This bold fusion of luxury and comfort catapulted the brand into the spotlight. In a world where gold and rubber had never coexisted, Hublot ignited a revolution that left an indelible mark on the industry. This feat of material fusion was more than a horological achievement; it was the embodiment of Hublot's philosophy.

 

Photo source: Hublot

 

The "art of fusion" wasn't limited to materials—it permeated every facet of Hublot's creations. In 2005, Jean-Claude Biver, who took the reins as Chairman of the Board, breathed new life into the brand with the unveiling of the Big Bang Chronograph. This revolutionary timepiece was a canvas of refined and daring material combinations—carbon, ceramics, titanium, and tantalum. The "art of the fusion" became an ever-evolving mantra, throwing Hublot to new heights of innovation and creativity.

 

Photo source: Watchpro

 

As Hublot's reputation grew, so did its constellation of brand ambassadors, a selection of the world's icons. From Usain Bolt, the fastest man on Earth, to football legend Pelé and basketball icon Kobe Bryant, these partnerships were more than endorsements—they were collaborations that produced unique timepieces that bore the spirit of their namesakes.

 

Photo source: Hublot

 

Hublot's commitment to philanthropy was evident in its collaboration with Depeche Mode, campaigning for clean drinking water. The brand's involvement in sports, especially football, became legendary, with Hublot becoming the official timekeeper of the FIFA World Cup. Football clubs like Juventus and Paris Saint-Germain proudly wore the Hublot badge, solidifying the brand's place in the heart of the sports world.

 

Photo source: The HourGlass

 

In the grand tapestry of luxury watchmaking, Hublot stands as a testament to audacious creativity and relentless innovation. From its beginnings with the daring fusion of gold and rubber to its global partnerships and iconic timepieces, Hublot's journey is one of constant evolution, an unending pursuit of the extraordinary in the world of horology. Through the art of fusion, Hublot has transcended time itself, writing its legacy into the very fabric of luxury watch history.