Minimalist yet complex. Clean yet daring. In the latest timepiece to be unveiled at Watches and Wonders Shanghai 2024, we see the purest expression of Roger Dubuis’ distinctive approach to watchmaking.
Introducing the Excalibur Monotourbillon White Gold.
Since its very first tourbillon launched in 2003, this Geneva watchmaker has been perpetuating the finest tourbillon traditions with an injection of modern expressivity. This time, the masterful and emblematic mechanics are encased in one of the most precious materials.
The Tourbillon in all its Forms
Roger Dubuis’ tourbillon journey goes back to its founder, a Master Watchmaker who not only saw the honour in perfecting this famous complication, but who also saw the opportunity for more aesthetic expression. In the eyes of Mr. Roger Dubuis, the compact nature of the mechanism created a playground of extra space, where a watchmaker could truly make their own unique mark.
That belief has now been at the core of the Maison’s tourbillon design for over two decades. From the first flying Monotourbillon in 2003, through to the comprehensive line-up launched in 2024, which has showcased the tourbillon in all its forms, there has been non-stop artistry and innovation on display.
Distinctive Maison Style
For the Calibre RD512SQ, which powers the new Excalibur Monotourbillon White Gold and provides a 72 hours power reserve, Roger Dubuis has begun at the most demanding level. To make their tourbillon challenge just a little bit greater, the Maison only produces Flying Tourbillons. Unlike traditional versions, the Flying Tourbillon is only mounted on one side, with no supporting bridge on top. It’s certainly more beautiful to look at, yet far more difficult to create, because stability must be guaranteed.
The expansive size of the Roger Dubuis cage also shows a distinctive approach and highlights the Maison’s willingness to play with design. With a bigger engine and a high inertia, the larger mechanism is needed for increased energy transmission through the wheels and all the way to other potential functions in the watch. Naturally, this also delivers a distinctive sound, brought about by the high level of torque within the calibre.
Beyond its signature size, the placement of the tourbillon at 7 o’clock is another distinguishing mark of Roger Dubuis. Furthermore, the cage is built with ingenious materials: titanium for the lower cage -almost twice lighter than stainless steel and anti-magnetic- and Cobalt Chrome for the upper cage- also non-magnetic. This last component strikes in the movement as it takes a shine from its mirror polish hand-finishing and its Celtic cross shape, known to represent the qualities of strength and unity.
Encompassing all of the signature touches that Roger Dubuis brings to its Calibre RD512SQ is the iconic placement within a skeletonized movement. Since 2009, the Maison has been using skeletonization as a starting point of each design – rather than a consequence of it. This means that, even when carrying high complications like the tourbillon, the calibres are noticeable for their lightness and purity.
Poinçon de Genève Certified
Beauty and performance are often difficult to quantify. Yet by attaining the Poinçon de Genève certification, Roger Dubuis is able to guarantee the provenance and reliability of this timepiece, as well as its exquisite standard of aesthetics.
For the Maison’s founder, Mr Roger Dubuis, hand-finishing was always seen as a way to cherish and uphold the finest horological traditions. His desire for that skill to be recognized and certified led the Maison to its acquisition of the Poinçon de Genève mark since 1999.
Today, in keeping with the demands of this fine watchmaking signature, 16 different types of hand-finishing have been used to decorate the Calibre RD512SQ, guaranteeing that every visible component is pristine and visually stunning. This is also for the customer’s benefit. Being able to see the surprising aesthetics of Roger Dubuis’ craftsmanship through the skeletonization, and immerse themselves in that quality, is essential to the Hyper Horology™ experience.
The Purity of White
For this latest Monotourbillon release, purity is exemplified by a full blanketing of white colour. The 42mm 18K white gold case is a first for a Roger Dubuis Monotourbillon, and it again showcases the familiar hallmarks of the Maison’s design. Sharp lines, distinctive notches, and precise symmetry are all hallmarks of the Excalibur line, and here, they are shown through the brilliance and preciousness of a truly exceptional material.
These qualities are amplified further still by the addition of 60 round-cut diamonds, which are carefully selected and neatly placed around the watch’s bezel. A scintillating effect that provides the customer with yet more opulence and prestige on the wrist.
To complement the sublime craftsmanship of this timepiece, the bracelet is made in white calf-skin leather and is fitted with a Quick Release System for personal versatility.
The Simplicity of Complexity
Limited to 88 pieces, in tribute to Mr. Roger Dubuis’ lucky number 8, the Excalibur White Gold Monotourbillon is perfectly weighted between minimalist modernity and daring innovation. Framed by the luxury of white gold, it is a compelling example of this Swiss Maison’s characteristic approach to watchmaking.
This timepiece takes pride of place at Watches and Wonders Shanghai 2024 within a collection of four new tourbillons from Roger Dubuis, also including The Excalibur Monotourbillon Blue Hour, the Excalibur Double Tourbillon Cobalt Chrome, and the Orbis in Machina Central Monotourbillon.
Each new creation stands as an homage to Roger Dubuis’ enduring tourbillon craftsmanship. Fuelled by expressivity and unexpected innovation, the Maison yet again proves its passion for reinterpreting this historic complication – in all its forms, and with all its many complexities.
