ROgER DUbUis

PErPETuaTing THE lEgEnd, Ennobling ExcEllEncE

Dan Diaconu

Over the past decade, Roger Dubuis has been exalting the Arthurian legends with its limited Excalibur Knights of the Round Table series with their captivating style. The common thread of all these watches is the exquisitely micro-sculpted knights that replace the indexes and numerals on a traditional hour chapter. Each watch makes them m THE TwElvE ETiculously-carvEd rosE revolve around the dial that boasts a gold figurinEs EncirclE striking scenescape. a sulPHurous landscaPE. This year, the manufacture transposes them in an inhospitable realm conducive to their heroic quest. Unlike the previous variations, these newcomers, all different, are frozen in action. Arms wield swords and other weapons from the Middle Ages. The twelve meticulouslycarved rose gold figurines encircle a sulphurous landscape created thanks to the exclusive know-how of the Venetian craftspeople. In a nutshell, a totallyrelief-style, smooth and glossy black landform, comprising fragments of glass from Murano cracks under the pressure of intense-red magma fashioned in the same material. The ensemble reigns supreme in a 45 mm-diameter 18-carat rose gold case. To marvel at this sumptuous scenography from every angle, a sapphire crystal has been placed between the case and the bezel. The magic really works. You can’t help but admire the incomparable work, finalized with ever-so delicate métiers d’art. And, as a pledge to excellence, the 28 pieces of the Excalibur Knights of the Round Table are, like all Roger Dubuis’ production, stamped with the Geneva Seal (Poinçon de Genève). By looking attentively at the timepiece, the finishes stand out, such as the one on the crown. It is

EvEry dETail of THE Excalibur KnigHTs of THE round TablE symbolizEs THE quEsT for PErfEcTion.

primed like a diadem, espousing precious metal and Serenissima glass. A protection, on both sides, visually emphasizes the impact of the element identical to the hilt of the mythical sword embedded in its rock. Its presence lets the wearer adjust time data and wind the RD821 calibre. Moreover, Roger Dubuis’ watchmakers were dedicated to magnifying this state-of-the-art movement that drives the pair of hour and minute hands that hovers over the fascinating composition. This automatic movement that delivers a power reserve of 48 hours stands out with its novel openworked oscillating weight. This device, imagined using two levels of inverted pyramids, breathes life into a geometric structure boasting powerful design that invites to be discovered via the caseback.

Like all the references in the collection since 2012, Merlin’s oath is showcased on the watch. “Around this table, the bravest knights will gather as equals. They will set forth in search of adventure, righting wrongs, protecting the weak and humbling the proud”. So, to accompany the happy few in their quests under the best conditions, each piece is worn on a comfortable black calfskin strap. The strap can be easily changed as wished thanks to its quick release system. Once again, excellence strikes with precision and mastery!