Hublot Classic Fusion Chronograph Ref. 540.NX.7170.NX - Titanium Case & Bracelet - Blue Soleil Dial

Hublot, originally known as MDM Genève, is a Swiss luxury watch brand founded in 1976 by Italian Carlo Crocco. In 1980, at Baselworld, the recently born Maison unveiled its first collection, featuring the first-ever watch to be fitted with a rubber strap. In May 2004, legendary watch executive Jean-Claude Biver assumed duties as CEO of the brand, becoming a board member and minority shareholder in Hublot Watches. As expected, Biver worked his magic, turning Hublot into one of the biggest players in the luxury watch industry. In 2009, Hublot was acquired by the LVMH Group, adding the Maison to their already rich portfolio of luxury watch brands owned by the Arnault Family. One of the most recognizable collections from the brand is the Classic Fusion, characterized by its geometric clean lines and distinctive porthole bezel — from which the brand takes its name (“Hublot” means porthole in French). The collection is vast, ranging from simple time-only models to more complicated chronograph versions. The present timepiece is part of the latter category, powered by a two-register HUB1153 chronograph movement, based on the ETA 2892-A2. The stunning blue soleil dial features two slightly recessed chronograph registers, surrounded by a silver-color steel chapter ring, applied indices, and a practical date window at 6 o’clock. Interestingly, this timepiece is not fitted with Hublot’s distinctive rubber strap. Instead, the original buyer — and consignor of this lot — opted for the less commonly seen titanium bracelet variant. The three-link bracelet is composed of solid links and continues the case’s aesthetic language, featuring satin-finished center links flanked by mirror-polished outer links. The watch has been kept in good condition and comes complete with its original box and booklet, and tag.