HUBLOT WATCHES
For the first time in the history of watchmaking, a precious material, gold, was combined with rubber. The porthole-shaped case with its combination of polished and brushed gold, the minimalist black dial and the inimitable bracelet in natural black rubber became the symbol of Hublot watches. In 1980, Hublot took the world of watchmaking by surprise when it created for the first-time ever, a watch with a precious metal case held by a natural rubber strap. This would mark the birth of the Fusion concept. After the success of the original porthole-inspired Hublot, a diver's watch was added to the collection; harmoniously fitting with the rubber strap. In 1986 Hublot launched its first-ever chronograph watch, the Classic Chronograph. In 1990, Hublot added the Elegant line to its offerings, which kept the same porthole silhouette as its Classic collection, but with a more minimalistic design; most noticeably the lack of screws on the bezel. For the 20th anniversary of Hublot in 2000, a special collection, in collaboration with Master Engraver Gianfranco Pedersoli was launched, featuring several unique pieces; each using a hunter case with a different engraving. In May 2004, Jean-Claude Biver took on his responsibilities as CEO, member of the board of directors and minority shareholder of Hublot watches, with a head full of projects for developing the brand. Under the aegis of its new CEO, Hublot returned to its founding principles: Jean-Claude Biver brought back the concept of The Art of Fusion. In 2004, Hublot released an updated design of its original chronographs: The Super B Flyback Chronograph collection. Featuring a rubber-coated bezel, and blackened case, the Super B was the Hublot watch to be released before the creation of the Big Bang. Hublot opened its first own-brand boutique in Paris, on Rue Saint-Honoré. The second was inaugurated the following summer in Saint-Tropez in the Hotel Byblos. A new chapter opened in the life of the watch brand. On April 24, 2008, Carlo Crocco sold Hublot to the French group LVMH, world leader in luxury products. Hublot's strong growth in high-end watchmaking makes the brand a good fit for the LVMH group's watch industry portfolio. Jean-Claude Biver, CEO, and Ricardo Guadalupe, Director general, retain their posts within the company to contribute to the expansion of the group's watchmaking arm.There are no products listed under this category.