When Fine Watchmaking Meets Modern Art: Hublot x Richard Orlinski

Hublot is a watch brand that is not afraid to push the boundaries of its field. Whether it is in terms of design, technology, or materials, Hublot has a passion for innovating, which means that it is not even uncommon for them to push the boundaries of all three with a single watch. They are also a brand that enjoys collaborations, not only because of the synergy that it generates but also because the input of others takes Hublot out of their own comfort zone.

For the Classic Fusion Aerofusion Chronograph Orlinski, it was the case that challenged Hublot, with its three-dimensional folds. This meant that the entire case of the Classic Fusion Aerofusion had to be redesigned, to accommodate the ridges and facets that are the signature of Richard Orlinski’s work. The fact that the two limited editions are made out of either titanium or blue ceramic didn’t make it any easier.

Although the design is the same, the different materials couldn’t make the two limited edition, of 200 pieces each, look any more different. The titanium version is polished to perfection, as this is another one of Orlinski’s signatures. This is quite a contrast with the blue ceramic version, which is bead blasted, giving it a matted look. Combined with the black details and strap it is a contrast of color, which makes it the more sportive looking watch of the two.

That Hublot had to completely redesign the Classic Fusion Aerofusion Chronograph also becomes evident when you look at the back of the watch. Behind the reworked case back, with glass back, you can see HUB1155 automatic chronograph caliber. It has a 42-hour power reserve, and next to the chronograph function, it also features a date. These complications are displayed on the sapphire crystal dial, which gives an insight in the inner workings of the movement, yet at the same time also allows for easy reading of the time, as well as the chronograph function.

The Classic Fusion Aerofusion Chronograph Orlinski is yet another example why Hublot does collaborations as no other brand can. Both models are a work of art, in the style Richard Orlinski became famous for, yet at the same time, it is also distinctly a Hublot. By going the extra mile, and completely redesigning the Classic Fusion Aerofusion Chronograph to meet the style and design by Orlinski, Hublot proved that this is not yet another limited edition, but an expression of pure horological art!