In a world where technology can replicate almost anything, what makes mechanical watchmaking truly irreplaceable?
The irreplaceable essence of mechanical watchmaking lies in its soul – it’s a confluence of artistry, human ingenuity, and heritage that technology, for all its advancements, cannot replicate. Each Hublot mechanical timepiece is a result of endless work with our engineers, skilled artisans who dedicate years to perfecting their craft. It’s about the intricate union of hundreds of tiny components, working in perfect harmony. This isn’t just about telling time, it’s about owning a piece that communicates a certain emotion or feeling, a testament to enduring craftsmanship, and an object that embodies passion and precision.
- In a world where technology can replicate almost anything, what makes mechanical watchmaking truly irreplaceable?
- Has storytelling taken on too great a role compared to the product itself?
- Does vintage inspire your creations… or does it constrain them?
- At what point does a watch begin to tell a story or evoke emotion more than it simply tells the time?
Has storytelling taken on too great a role compared to the product itself?
At Hublot, we believe storytelling isn’t separate from the product. In fact, it’s an intrinsic part of its identity and value. Our watches are not merely instruments; they are expressions of our ‘Art of Fusion’ philosophy, bringing together unexpected materials, innovative design, and our watchmaking savoir faire. The stories we tell enrich the product experience and by telling a story they also create a specific emotion. They help our collectors understand the ‘why’ behind the ‘what,’ revealing the passion, the challenges, and the triumphs that go into creating a Hublot timepiece. The product always comes first, but storytelling elevates its meaning and resonance. For a long time Hublot was very marketing centric and today, whilst our stories and partnerships are key for us, we are also putting the accent on our watchmaking know how and capabilities, like our in house produced movements.
Does vintage inspire your creations… or does it constrain them?
Hublot is a very young brand, not even 50 years old. Our brand was founded on a revolutionary idea: fusing gold with a rubber strap. This forward-thinking spirit means we are constantly pushing boundaries, not looking backward. While we respect the rich history of watchmaking, our focus is on the present day and pushing boundaries further, this is Hublot. We draw inspiration from historical innovation, understanding the foundations of horology, but we reinterpret these lessons through a contemporary lens. Our designs are bold, modern, and often avant-garde, embracing new materials and technologies to create timepieces that are distinctly Hublot – a true fusion of tradition and innovation, always looking ahead. We are very lucky that our founder, Carlo Crocco, is alive and I have met him several times to discuss the brand, the Classic Fusion model and what it meant for Hublot in the 1980s. Always such inspiring exchanges!
At what point does a watch begin to tell a story or evoke emotion more than it simply tells the time?
For a Hublot, it’s instant. From the very first glance, it evokes a reaction. A Hublot watch is never just about telling the time – that’s a given. It’s about making a statement, expressing who you are, your ambition, your unique taste. It’s about the feeling you get when you strap on a piece of avant-garde design and engineering. It connects you to the world of performance, art, luxury, and innovation that we champion. Our watches become companions in moments of achievement, symbols of milestones, and objects that resonate deeply on an emotional level. They are designed to be conversation starters, memory makers, and ultimately, a powerful extension of your personal story.
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