Roger Dubuis | CEO Interview

Roger Dubuis CEO

An Interview with Mathias Schuler

Since its founding in 1995, Roger Dubuis has been a pioneering brand in the luxury watch sector, distinguished by its unique individuality. Following its integration into the Richemont Group in 2008, the brand has steadily strengthened its manufacturing capabilities. This year, 2010, marks the unveiling of a new movement and the relaunch of the "Excalibur," arguably the company's flagship collection. Among the new models introduced from the round-cased Excalibur, particular attention was drawn to the "ExcaliburTourbillonOpen Dial." This innovative timepiece, which allows one to enjoy both the flying tourbillon and the micro-rotor automatic winding mechanism from the dial side, is equipped with the new "RD520" movement. Regarding this impressive new creation, Roger Dubuis CEO Mathias Schuler shared the following insights.

Photo by Junji ShimokawaText by Aki Nogami

Showcasing the "Engine": A Contemporary Design

This year, we announced the renewal of the "Excalibur," including the innovative double tourbillon, and this "Excalibur Tourbillon Open Dial" in particular represents a new form of tourbillon proposed by Roger Dubuis. The multi-layered dial, which allows enjoyment of the flying tourbillon and micro-rotor from the front, is adorned with mother-of-pearl, creating a very contemporary and modern design, wouldn't you agree?

Other models employing a micro-rotor include the column-wheelChronograph"Excalibur Chronograph," which offers a more edgy design compared to the tourbillon. This tourbillon design emerged from our desire to showcase the movements, which are our "pride."

The minute repeater, also introduced this year, features a design that allows a glimpse of the mechanism through the sapphire crystal glass. Schuler explains that this, too, is a testament to Roger Dubuis' commitment to "boldness."

Mathias Schuler, CEO of Roger Dubuis.

It's a unique presentation for a high-end model, isn't it? While many brands offer minute repeaters, Roger Dubuis distinguishes itself with a design that is a step ahead, moving beyond traditional approaches. What is currently sought after in high-end models are differentiation, rarity, and individuality. We consider showcasing the mechanism to be part of a contemporary style. For instance,Ferrarihas parts of its engine visible through glass, allowing a view inside. Watches should be the same. Shouldn't we actively showcase the captivating elements, the "content"?

Further Value with C.O.S.C. Certification: The Pursuit of Exclusivity

Mathias Schuler is wearing the "Excalibur Tourbillon Open Dial." The rotor is visible at the 10 o'clock position, and the flying tourbillon escapement at 7 o'clock.

In line with this new approach to showcasing the "engine," the company has also demonstrated a more user-centric stance by pursuing C.O.S.C. certification for all movements announced this year.

All Roger Dubuis movements bear the Geneva Seal engraving. As an additional enhancement, we aim to obtain official chronometer certification, C.O.S.C., for all our collections within the next few years. We believe that third-party certification from an official body is important for our customers, and we have been pursuing this plan since last year. For example, the "Easy Diver Automatic," which has been renewed with the new "RD821" movement, is offered at a more accessible price point below 1.5 million yen.

We are delighted to offer this attractive price with movements that are both Geneva Seal certified and C.O.S.C. certified. With an automatic movement, stainless steel case, 46mm diameter, and most importantly, our signature edgy design—carrying this momentum forward, we intend to create a new line in 2011 that is currently missing from our product families. For Roger Dubuis, continuing to challenge ourselves with exclusive, unique products is simply the natural course of action.