Hublot’s New Classic Fusion Tributo is a Golden Ode to the 1980 Original

Apt Tributes

Crocco’s original MDM Genéve had a 36mm case size; however, not one whit of proportion has been compromised as the now-known-as Classic Fusion has grown to 38mm. Those 12 iconic, slightly domed bezel screws retain their original function as tactile hour indices, providing for a gloriously stripped-down, essential dial design that was nothing short of disruptive in 1980.

With just a stealthy 3 o’clock date window and minimal badging, the deep black dials of the new Tributo models (a matte charcoal-effect for the yellow gold version, polished onyx for the white gold) are just as potent, elegant, and artful nearly a half-century later.

Of course, on the inside, the game changes significantly. A modern HUB1711 Manufacture self-winding caliber with a 60-hour power reserve runs the show in the new pair, with an open-worked, “H”-shaped 22K yellow gold rotor for the yellow gold execution and a similar black tungsten rotor for its white gold sibling, both visible through an exhibition caseback.

Notably, the early use of a rubber strap was an equally disruptive element of Crocco’s foundational timepiece. Today’s textured, black rubber fasteners integrate into the cases’ exposed lugs like the original, but Hublot has deliberately left its current One Click strap-switching system off the Tributo pair to enhance their message of faithfulness and authenticity.

Good Attitudes

Arguably, the yellow gold version draws the strongest lines back to Crocco’s 1980 yellow gold creation, with the white gold execution introducing a new dose of metallic formality, but the underlying DNA and architecture are shared, with all of the above-mentioned details providing double duty as historic reference points for each of the pair.

Incidentally, the “MDM” in the original’s moniker also refers to the Main Dan la Main foundation, founded by Crocco in 1998 to deliver help and relief to children and families experiencing difficult life situations. Thus, the MDM badging on the dials of these new Classic Fusion Tributo models reflects the brand’s commitment to donate CHF 100,000 to the foundation.

“To respect Hublot is to honor its origins, not by freezing it in time, but by keeping it in motion,” CEO Julien Tornare said of the new debut. “The Classic Fusion Tributo perfectly embodies this philosophy, creating a direct link between 1980 and the present. Carlo Crocco’s vision remains – sharp, disruptive, and vibrant.

“Now, this vision is realized with the full extent of our manufacturing expertise. It reflects minimalism by design, precisely as he envisioned it, and horological depth, as Hublot brings it to life today.”

Pricing & Availability

Unveiled today, the Hublot Classic Fusion Tributo models list for CHF 25,000 each, with no production limitations detailed at press time.

For more information, check out the Hublot website.