Previously in our pre-owned inventory: Hublot Classic Fusion 511.NX.7170.LR, a 45mm titanium case with a blue sunburst dial and Hublot’s signature exposed H screws.
Choose the Hublot Big Bang if you want a bold, layered sports watch, usually a chronograph, with maximum wrist presence and the most material variety. Choose the Classic Fusion if you want the Hublot porthole design in a slimmer, cleaner package that works with a suit as well as with jeans. Both share the same DNA; the difference is how loud you want the watch to be.
We see a lot of Hublot at Pucks & Timepieces, and Big Bang versus Classic Fusion is the first question most buyers need to answer. Here is how I explain it.
Where Hublot comes from
Carlo Crocco founded Hublot in 1980, according to Hublot. Hublot means “porthole” in French, and the original design combined a porthole-inspired case and visible screws with a natural rubber strap, an unusual pairing for a luxury watch at the time, as Revolution describes. That idea, mixing unexpected materials, became Hublot’s “Art of Fusion.” Hublot has been part of LVMH since 2008, according to Haute Time.
The Big Bang: bold and layered
The Big Bang launched in 2005 and transformed Hublot, as The Hour Glass explains in its collector’s guide. Its case is built from multiple layers, with a thick bezel, a composite middle, and prominent pushers, and it has appeared in steel, gold, ceramic, carbon, sapphire, and many colors.
In 2010, Hublot introduced its in-house Unico chronograph movement. The current Big Bang Unico 42mm uses the HUB1280 calibre with a 72-hour power reserve and an openworked dial, according to Hublot’s specifications.
- Best for: buyers who want a watch that gets noticed, love chronographs, or want unusual materials and colors.
- Consider: the Big Bang is thicker and heavier than the Classic Fusion, and it can be harder to fit under a cuff.
The Classic Fusion: slimmer and versatile
Hublot introduced the Classic Fusion in 2008 as a more refined interpretation of its original 1980 design, according to Hublot’s 40-year history. It keeps the porthole case, exposed H screws, and integrated strap, but with a thinner profile, a cleaner dial, and fewer layers.
Sizes range widely. Hublot lists a Classic Fusion Titanium 38mm and a Classic Fusion Titanium 45mm, with 42mm in between. There are three-hand, chronograph, and more complicated models.
- Best for: buyers who want a Hublot they can wear every day, including with business clothing.
- Consider: it is understated by Hublot standards, which some buyers love and others find too quiet.
Side by side
- Look: the Big Bang is sporty, layered, and bold. The Classic Fusion is cleaner and more refined.
- Thickness: the Big Bang is thicker, especially in chronograph form. The Classic Fusion sits lower on the wrist.
- Complications: the Big Bang is mostly chronographs. The Classic Fusion is mostly three-hand watches, with chronographs available.
- Materials: both use titanium, gold, and ceramic. The Big Bang has more experimental options, including sapphire and colored ceramics.
- Versatility: the Classic Fusion is easier to wear in more settings.
Buying pre-owned Hublot
- Pre-owned value is strong for buyers. Hublot generally trades below retail on the secondary market, so pre-owned can be a smart way in.
- Check the strap. Hublot straps often use a proprietary attachment, and replacements can be expensive. A good strap adds real value.
- Look at the bezel and screws. The H screws and polished bezel show wear easily. Mismatched or damaged screws are a red flag.
- Confirm the movement. Unico models use Hublot’s in-house chronograph; other models use different calibres. Know which one you are buying.
- Authenticate carefully. Hublot is widely counterfeited. Our authentication guide was written around Rolex, but the same seller-first approach applies.
Hublot questions
Is the Classic Fusion a good first Hublot?
Yes. It is the easiest Hublot to wear daily, and it delivers the brand’s signature design without the bulk.
What does Unico mean?
Unico is the name of Hublot’s in-house chronograph movement, introduced in 2010.
Which Big Bang size should I choose?
Big Bang models run large and thick. Check lug-to-lug length and thickness using our watch size guide.
Find your Hublot
Browse our Hublot collection, or ask us to source a specific Big Bang or Classic Fusion. If you have a Hublot to sell or trade, request a quote.
