This Hublot Classic Fusion Bol d’Or Mirabaud (Ref. 521.NQ.1717.QR.BOM14) is a nice take on their iconic Classis Fusion collection. While the differences with other models in the range are only cosmetic, the choice of materials and the way they are put together make a strong impression. As usual, Hublot will severely limit its total production volume in order to make it a ‘real’ rarity.
It looks like the young Swiss brand has finally managed to produce a version of its (somewhat tiring in its repetitiveness) design that not only looks cool but is actually quite exciting.
While the basic shape of the timekeeper is identical to that of other members of their growing Classic Fusion family, this new Hublot Classic Fusion Bol d’Or Mirabaud edition delivers a nice combination of materials and textures that make this gadget shine in all meanings of this word.
The lightweight titanium body of the device features a tasteful blend of mirror-polished (the case itself, the bezel ring, and chronograph push-pieces) and satin-finished parts (the center part of its long angled lugs). This interesting mix is elegantly accented with a carbon fiber insert in the bezel, the dial, and even the strap where the material is stitched to a black rubber band for better comfort and durability.
Although the oversized navy blue sub-dials with their sunburst pattern look a bit obvious on a watch that celebrates the 76th annual Bol d’Or Mirabaud regatta, an event which is held every year on Lake Geneva, I must admit that the choice of color looks organic here. The sub-dials not only provide the rugged-looking face of the timekeeper a bit more elegant look but also make the device look more organic on a wrist of a man wearing a club blazer over a pair of blue jeans.
Of course, measuring 45 millimeters in diameter, the watch is massive, but so are other members of the Classic Fusion collection, so there is nothing to complain here about: you either take it or leave it, it is that simple. Have in mind, however, that the timepiece was designed to be beautiful, not ergonomic.
Although the choice of metal makes the chronograph quite light, the shape of its case and the form of its lugs does not make this gadget terribly comfortable per se, but if you happen to own a thin and narrower than usual wrist, there is a good chance that fairly soon you will course the day you bought one.
Even if you seriously plan to order the Bol d’Or Mirabaud online, don’t be shy and pay a visit to your local Hublot boutique and try it or some other member of the family on your hand. Better safe than sorry, you know.
As you have probably already guessed, the number of these ultra-luxury time measuring devices that the company is going to produce will match the number of years the Bol d’Or Mirabaud regatta is in existence. Right, only 76 individually numbered pieces will be offered to a privileged few.
See also: Hublot Classic Fusion Squelette Tourbillon Ferrari 250 GTO
Photos: Hublot
WWR verdict
Originality 4/5
Build quality: 5/5
Usability: 4.5/5
Legibility: 4.5/5
Value for money: 3/5
Hublot Classic Fusion Bol d’Or Mirabaud Chronograph in Titanium (Ref. 521.NQ.1717.QR.BOM14) specification
Price: $14,500 (MSRP)
Movement: Automatic, caliber HUB 1143 (based on ETA 2892-A2,) 280 components, in-house, Swiss Made
Number of jewels: 59
Movement frequency: 28,800 vph
Power reserve: 42 hours
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, date, chronograph
Case and Crown: Titanium
Bezel: Titanium and carbon-fiber
Shape: Round
Size: 45.00 mm
Dial: Carbon-fiber, blue sunburst sub-dials
Hour markers: Rhodium-plated, applied
Hands: Rhodium-plated, skeletonized
Water resistance: 50 meters
Strap: Carbon fiber strap with blue stitching, sewn onto black rubber with steel deployant buckle
Crystal: Sapphire, antireflective on both sides
Back: Solid, engraved