Roger Dubuis | Excalibur Tourbillon Open Dial

Roger Dubuis Excalibur Tourbillon Open Dial

The classic dual-time model, now even more elegant

Text by Yasuto Shibuya

This new complication model is captivating, featuring the new movement "RD520" developed specifically for this timepiece. It allows enthusiasts to fully appreciate the interplay of two mechanisms requiring exceptional mechanical watchmaking expertise: the flying tourbillon and the winding system utilizing a micro-rotor. The visible flying tourbillon cage is adorned with mother-of-pearl, seamlessly connecting to the same material used for the decoration at the center of the dial. The overlapping micro-rotor window creates four circles when considering the case, harmonizing exquisitely with the large Roman numerals, an iconic element of the Excalibur line.

Self-winding, rose gold case, 45mm diameter, exhibition case back, Geneva Seal certified, ¥14,490,000 (estimated retail price), limited to 88 pieces worldwide, scheduled for release in Autumn 2010

BRAND HISTORY

Roger Dubuis stands as a premier manufacture watch brand from Geneva, Switzerland. It was founded in 1995 as SOGEM (Société Genevoise des Montres) by the genius watchmaker Roger Dubuis and Carlos Dias, a designer and passionate collector of vintage watches. The following year, they unveiled their first collections, "Sympathy" and "Hommage." This marked the beginning of their rise to prominence, characterized by unique, original designs and high-end watchmaking with subsequent lines such as "Much More," "Feel Me," and "Too Much."

In 1999, the company name was changed to Manufacture Roger Dubuis, and in 2001, construction began on the first phase of a new factory and headquarters in Meyrin, a suburb of Geneva. The second phase was completed in 2005, solidifying and strengthening the brand's independence as a manufacture.

All mechanical movements are 100% developed and manufactured in-house, bearing the "Geneva Seal" – a mark of precision and quality, attesting to the Geneva manufacturing method. These are then adorned with Roger Dubuis' signature striking designs.

While the company has a history of developing numerous in-house calibers, its production capabilities have seen significant advancements in recent years. At the 2006 SIHH, they simultaneously introduced a total of six in-house calibers, ranging from simple three-hand models to tourbillons.

The brand became part of the Richemont Group in 2008 and has been operating under a new structure since January 1, 2009. Currently, the focus is on the flagship "Excalibur" collection, alongside the luxury sports line "Easy Diver" and the architecturally inspired, impactful square-shaped "King Square."

Founding Year: 1995
Place of Founding: Geneva, Switzerland
Main Collection Names: Excalibur, Easy Diver, King Square, Golden Square
Roger Dubuis 03-3288-6640
Official Website: http://www.rogerdubuis.com/