Hublot
Introducing Hublot’s Classic Fusion Chronograph Shepard Fairey
Hublot
Introducing Hublot’s Classic Fusion Chronograph Shepard Fairey
The Low-Down
In this new episode of art and watchmaking, Hublot brings us the Classic Fusion Chronograph Shepard Fairey, its second collaboration with the American artist. This new execution symbolizes the natural cycles of life and the unity between different cultures. The new piece is yet another episode of the philosophy “Be the first, be unique, be different” of the famous Nyon brand, complementing its “Hublot Loves Art” program.
Recently, Hublot had unveiled two other collaborations, those made by Takashi Murakami and Richard Orlinski. Today, Hublot presents its third work of art of 2021 in the Classic Fusion Chronograph Shepard Fairey. A painter, graphic designer, DJ, illustrator, urban artist, skateboard lover, and founder of OBEY Clothing, Fairey —also known by his pseudonym Obey; you can follow him on Instagram at @obeygiant— has become quite the relevant voice for his generation. Fairey’s work is clearly rooted in street art, and he constantly challenges his audience to open up to the possibilities of new messages through different motifs.
The new Classic Fusion Chronograph is the second collaboration between Hublot and the brilliant American artist Shepard Fairey.
On his second adventure with Hublot, Fairey wanted to fully immerse himself in the technical aspects of a timepiece and create a striking watch that could convey a message to the heart and mind. The South Carolina-born artist decided to bring to life a piece symbolizing a mandala, an ornamental effigy representing harmony, the cycle of life and the elements, as well as the precious nature of time. The new watch takes advantage of the design and technical aspects of the Classic Fusion Chronograph, intending to present a message of alertness employing some ethereal imagery.
The engraving on the case, bezel, and dial is inspired by the mandala motif. Given all its details, the watch's symmetry is remarkable.
The Hublot Classic Fusion Chronograph Shepard Fairey watch is available as a limited edition (50 pieces) on Hublot’s e-commerce and Hublot boutiques. Hublot and Shepard Fairey have agreed that this watch will help raise funds for Amnesty International, the well-known NGO which fights to end human rights violations in keeping with the theme of global harmony represented by the meticulous design engraved on the watch.
The HUB1155 self-winding chronograph movement adds functionality to this artsy timepiece.
IMHO
Almost since its origins, the Classic Fusion has been a sort of new generation canvas for artistic experimentation. It’s hard to remember how many executions have taken advantage of the watch’s style and proportions —either the three-hand version or the chronograph work equally well— to represent a particular moment, idea, place, or story. I think the Orlinski watches are fresh in our collective memory, but there are many more special Classic Fusions, such as those honoring the Italian village of Capri and the always great London; or there are the ones created in honor of the cigar artisan Arturo Fuente and Parisian shoemaker Berluti. And there’s also the Classic Fusion Aerofusion in titanium and bronze created jointly by Revolution and The Rake! So no matter the inspiration, with the Classic Fusion, Hublot managed to become a great partner for a variety of artistic ideas.
Indeed, this collection has served as a literal platform for some of the most creative and artistic watchmaking executions of this watchmaking era. What Fairey accomplished with his carving of the mandala theme on the Classic Fusion case, bezel and dial resulted in a halo of emotions that offsets the usual coldness of titanium. The open-worked dial’s symmetry is incredibly moving, somehow highlighted by the carvings’ textures and curves. The message that Fairey conveys with this incredibly detailed Hublot will resonate with those looking for true, empathetic human ideas but enriched with a different artistic background.
Shepard Fairey at his studio.
The Hublot Classic Fusion Chronograph Shepard Fairey and the mandala, the geometric pattern that inspired its design.
The dark and cold hues of the Classic Fusion's 45mm titanium case have been warmed by Fairey's engravings and black brushed surfaces.
Tech Specs
Hublot Classic Fusion Chronograph Shepard Fairey Ref. 525.NX.0137.RX.SHF21
Movement: Mechanical self-winding; skeletonised caliber HUB1155; hours and minutes; small seconds; chronograph, date; 28,800 bph; 42-hour power reserve
Case: Titanium, 45 mm; engraved and black brushed case and bezel; custom printed decoration on dial; engraved screw-down case back; 50-meter water resistance
Strap: Black rubber, stainless steel deployant clasp
Price: CHF 20,900/USD 22,000; Limited edition of 50 pieces
