October 15, 2026

A Tribute to Hublot’s 1980 Original
Hublot is marking 46 years since its debut with the Classic Fusion Tributo, a homage to what the brand calls “the watch that built Hublot.” The biggest change is inside the case. The Sellita-supplied movements that drew criticism across much of the Classic Fusion range have been replaced by a caliber derived from Zenith’s Elite. Founder Carlo Crocco, who launched the original under the name MDM Genève, was closely involved in the collection’s release, which gives the anniversary real heritage.

The Watch That Broke the Rules
When the original appeared at Baselworld in 1980, traditional collectors saw its gold case, rubber strap, and black dial as heresy. The reaction echoed the one that greeted the Royal Oak in 1972, a steel watch priced like gold. Yet Patek Philippe, Vacheron Constantin, Breguet, and Rolex now all sell gold-on-rubber models. The name Hublot means “porthole,” which explains the screwed bezel and the hinge-and-lock details on either side of the case. Many watchmakers in the ’70s embraced the same nautical theme.

Design Updates and One Misstep
The case grows from 36 to 38 millimeters, a sensible update since the original now looks rather petite. Twelve domed screws, raised above the bezel, still serve as hour markers on an otherwise clean dial. Two 18k gold versions are offered. The yellow gold model has a deep matte-black dial, while the white gold model has a glossy black onyx dial. One questionable choice is the isolated MDM logo above 6 o’clock, which stands out awkwardly. This is especially puzzling because the original shown alongside the Tributo lacked it. On the wrist, however, the proportions and finishing feel genuinely luxurious.

Movement, Warranty, and Price
The watch is powered by the HUB1711, a step up from the HUB1710. It is built on the Zenith 670 architecture, which itself derives from the Zenith 680 of 1994. The movement runs at 4Hz and offers an extended 60-hour power reserve thanks to an optimized gear train. Depending on the model, it carries a yellow gold or black tungsten rotor. There is no silicon balance spring or escapement, but buyers receive a 5+5-year warranty. At $36,000 USD, once Day-Date territory, the Tributo is expensive. Still, it is a convincing tribute to the 1980 watch that started it all.

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