June 18, 2019 New York (US) – Hublot and legendary pitcher Mariano Rivera unveiled the limited-edition Classic Fusion Aerofusion Chronograph Mariano Rivera, honoring his legacy as a New York Yankee.
Hublot has long supported athletes and game changers from multiple disciplines in the world of sports. Partnering with Mariano Rivera, “the Sandman” was a natural decision for the brand. Rivera redefined the game and what it means to be a closer, setting the bar higher with every pitch. It has been exciting to work with him during this process and we are thrilled to honor his career and celebrate his induction into the MLB Hall of Fame with this classic timepiece.
– Jean-François Sberro
PRESIDENT HUBLOT NORTH AMERICA
The special evening was hosted at American Cut Steakhouse, bringing together the ultimate New York dining experience with an icon of the city. The nostalgic ambience, coupled with live music, set the pace for a grand celebration of Mariano’s unanimous induction into the Hall of Fame Class of 2019. Baseball novelties accented the room, bringing fans back to a time when Rivera walked on field to “Enter Sandman.”
During dinner, Jean-François Sberro, President of Hublot North America, presented Rivera with his very own limited-edition King Gold as well as the Titanium for the Mariano Rivera Foundation, his charity supporting communities to empower youths. Each watch in the 47-piece collection is accompanied by a custom mitt signed by Rivera.
Mariano Rivera debuted in the Major Leagues with the New York Yankees in 1995. He quickly established himself as one of the top relievers in baseball, leading the league in saves. As he moved up to become the best closer in the game, he was a key contributor in leading the Yankees to success in the 1990’s and 2000’s. When Rivera’s walk-up song “Enter Sandman” began to play, rival players and their fans alike knew to expect the end was coming.
Paying homage to the legendary closer, the Classic Fusion Aerofusion Chronograph Mariano Rivera limited-edition timepiece tells the story of Rivera’s legacy as the Sandman. Introduced by T&R Jewelers, the Hall of Famer partnered with Hublot and the local retailer in a collaboration emphasizing classic New York values. Founded in 1983, T&R Jewelers has maintained a reputation as one of the top retailers of rare and unique pieces in New York by proudly providing personalized service as a family-owned business. Collaborating with only the best, Mariano worked with Hublot and T&R to create the piece, lending his standard of high performance and esteemed precision and timing as inspiration.
Forever enshrined as a New York Yankee, the team’s signature blue follows him in the ceramic bezel, encompassing details that commemorate his career. The 12 o’clock mark is adorned with a 42 set in stones, Rivera’s jersey number retired by the Yankees in 2013. The Mariano Rivera special counter hands appear in the shape of bats and the sub-dial features the stitching on a baseball. Once the deployant clasp is closed, the blue strap with contrasting white stitching revives images of Rivera standing on the mound, his hand wrapped around the ball as he prepares to close out the game with his widely-feared cutter.
The Classic Fusion Aerofusion Chronograph Mariano Rivera Titanium is in a limited run of 42 pieces; the King Gold is in a limited run of 5 pieces.
