211 Hublot Very Stylish MDM Chronograph, Wristwatch in Yellow Gold, With White Dial, Reference 1620.3, from the Personal Collection of Renato Della Valle

Estimate: € 4,000 –⁠ 8,000

Sold € 3,900

Model: MDM Chronograph
Reference: 1620.3
Case Material: Yellow Gold
Bracelet Material: Rubber Strap
Year: 1990's
Movement: Quartz
Caliber: 1270
Case N°: 213019
Dimensions: 37 mm
Signed: Dial, Movement and Case
Literature: Coming from the Personal Collection of Renato Della Valle

Founded in 1980, Hublot has emerged as a disruptive force in the watchmaking industry, challenging traditional norms with innovative design techniques and revolutionary materials. Carlo Crocco, the Italian watchmaker behind Hublot, opened MDM Geneva in the same year and unveiled the groundbreaking Hublot watch at the prestigious Baselworld watch fair. The Hublot watch caused a sensation at Baselworld by departing from the conventional use of gold, leather, and exotic materials in luxury watch bands. Instead, Hublot’s band was crafted from rubber, specifically a tempered, lightweight, and durable rubber that Crocco invested an estimated $1 million in developing. While the design was radical for the luxury watch space, commercial success initially faced challenges. However, by 1993, Hublot watches gained recognition and became favorites among celebrities. In 2004, with Hublot’s popularity waning, Jean-Claude Biver took over as CEO, revitalizing the brand with the introduction of the “Big Bang” Chronograph at Basel in April 2005. In the preceding years, the MDM Geneva collection explored various avenues, incorporating complications and occasionally featuring the use of gold to embellish creations. One notable piece from this era is the MDM Chronograph offered here. Part of the MDM (Montres de Marque) collection, this watch has been part of the personal collection of the Italian businessman Renato Della Villa, who has impeccably preserved it. The yellow-gold case retains its satin finish, and the graduated bezel features deep engravings with clear black paint. The white dial boasts three subdials for constant seconds, a 30-minute register, and a 12-hour register, with the date window located at 6 o’clock. Powered by a quartz movement, this watch epitomizes 90s fashion, representing a model that adorned the wrists of many influential individuals and is experiencing a resurgence in the market today.