Hublot just unveiled the third instalment of Essential Grey, a series of watches dressed in a cool monochrome. The latest addition is the Classic Fusion Essential Grey that’s available in two sizes of 42 mm and 45 mm.

It’s a low-key look that sports a sun ray-brushed grey dial and titanium case. As is convention for Essential Grey, the pair are available only online.

The case sports the iconic porthole-shaped bezel

Initial thoughts

While earlier Essential Grey models were chronographs, the new pair are simply, time-and-date watches. Despite being monochromatic, the Essential Grey chronographs looked busy. The Classic Fusion, on the other hand, is a perfect match for the monochromatic palette.

The design is as clean as a Hublot can be, which complements the colour scheme well. Already a wearable watch in itself, the Classic Fusion in this restrained styling is made even more wearable.

The only weakness of the watch is the price. At US$8,500, the Classic Fusion Essential Grey is amongst the most affordable Hublot models, but it costs that much despite the basic Sellita SW300 movement inside. The SW300 is a strong performer but inexpensive and usually found in correspondingly inexpensive watches. I know that Hublot is working on a workhorse in-house calibre to take the place of the SW300, but until then the price is stiff.

Porthole

The Classic Fusion Essential Grey is available in 42 mm and 45 mm variants, with both identical save for the case dimensions. The 42 mm version is 10.4 mm thick, while the 45 mm version is 10.95 mm.

Both are powered by variants of the Sellita SW300, slightly modified to suit each case. The 42 mm version contains the HUB1110, while the 45 mm version is powered by the HUB1112.

Based on the Sellita SW300.

Styling is consistent across both variants. It’s classic Hublot with the porthole-shaped bezel secured by six H-head screws. The case is titanium with contrasting brushed and mirror-polish surfaces.

Featuring a sun-ray grey dial.

Finished in metallic grey, the dial is radially brushed and has a date at three with a matching grey date disc. Both the hour indices and hands are polished and faceted.

The strap is integrated into the case

As is standard for the Classic Fusion, the strap is secured to the case with screws, unlike higher-end Hublot models that feature a quick-release function. The fabric-covered rubber strap is matched with Hublot’s standard single-fold clasp that is not particularly ergonomic.

Key facts and price

Hublot Classic Fusion Essential Grey
Ref. 542.NX.5610.NR.HEC24
Ref. 511.NX.5610.NR.HEC24

Diameter: 42 mm/45 mm
Height: 10.4 mm/10.95 mm
Material: Titanium
Crystal: Sapphire
Water resistance: 50 m

Movement: HUB1110/HUB1112 (both based on Sellita SW300)
Functions: Hours, minutes, and seconds
Winding: Automatic
Frequency: 28,000 beats per second (4 Hz)
Power reserve: 42 hours

Strap: Grey rubber strap with stainless steel deployment buckle

Limited edition: No
Availability: Available at Hublot boutiques and retailers starting June 2024
Price: US$8,500

For more, visit hublot.com