Since its inception in 1995,
Roger Dubuis has consistently pushed the boundaries of watchmaking, crafting timepieces that are as technically impressive as they are aesthetically captivating. The latest addition to their esteemed Excalibur collection, the Double Tourbillon Cobalt, is a testament to this unwavering commitment to excellence.
Roger Dubuis is not a brand for the faint of heart. From the outset, they have embraced a philosophy of 'hyper horology,' characterized by a relentless pursuit of technical mastery and a penchant for bold, unconventional designs. Their timepieces are not simply watches; they are wearable works of art, imbued with a spirit of rebellion and a celebration of mechanical ingenuity.
Courtesy of Roger Dubuis
The Excalibur collection, in particular, embodies this ethos. Launched in 2005, it quickly became synonymous with Roger Dubuis's signature aesthetic: oversized cases, skeletonized dials, and intricate movements that are as mesmerizing to behold as they are complex to engineer. Each Excalibur watch is a testament to the Maison's unwavering dedication to pushing the boundaries of traditional watchmaking.
At the heart of the Excalibur Double Tourbillon Cobalt lies a movement that is as technically impressive as it is visually arresting. The double tourbillon, a complication that Roger Dubuis first introduced in 2005, is a marvel of mechanical engineering. It features two tourbillons, each rotating on its own axis to counteract the effects of gravity on the watch's accuracy.
In this latest iteration, the double tourbillon has been further refined and perfected. The two flying tourbillons are linked by a differential, a mechanism that averages their rates to ensure even greater precision. The movement comprises 319 meticulously crafted components, each finished to the highest standards. With a power reserve of 72 hours, it is a testament to the Maison's commitment to both technical excellence and aesthetic beauty.
Courtesy of Roger Dubuis
The Excalibur Double Tourbillon Cobalt is not just a masterpiece of mechanical engineering; it is also a triumph of material innovation. The case is crafted from Cobalt Chrome, an alloy renowned for its exceptional strength, durability, and resistance to corrosion. It is a material that is rarely used in watchmaking, but Roger Dubuis, ever the innovator, has embraced its unique properties to create a timepiece that is as robust as it is beautiful.
The silvery-grey hue of the Cobalt Chrome case is complemented by a
Deep Blue dial, inspired by the color of cobalt in its natural state. This striking contrast creates a visual symphony that is both bold and refined, a testament to the Maison's unwavering commitment to aesthetic excellence.
The dial of the Excalibur Double Tourbillon Cobalt is a masterpiece of skeletonization, revealing the intricate workings of the movement beneath. The blue CVD-coated flange, with its satin-brushed finish and transferred minute track, provides a striking contrast to the polished rhodium-plated hour markers. The dial is not merely a means of telling time; it is a window into the soul of the watch, a visual representation of the mechanical ballet taking place within.
Courtesy of Roger Dubuis
The 45mm case of the Excalibur Double Tourbillon Cobalt is crafted from Cobalt CarTech Micro-Melt BioDur CCMTM, a material renowned for its exceptional strength, durability, and biocompatibility. The case is not just a protective shell for the movement; it is a work of art in its own right, with its intricate curves and polished surfaces. The open case back offers a tantalizing glimpse of the movement, inviting the wearer to appreciate the mechanical mastery within.
The Excalibur Double Tourbillon Cobalt is fitted with a premium calf leather strap in a vibrant shade of blue. The strap is not only aesthetically pleasing but also practical, thanks to the Quick Release System that allows for easy interchangeability. The titanium clasp, with its triple folding buckle, ensures a secure and comfortable fit.
Courtesy of Roger Dubuis
The beating heart of the Excalibur Double Tourbillon Cobalt is the RD108SQ calibre, a hand-wound movement that is a testament to Roger Dubuis's commitment to technical excellence. The movement comprises 319 meticulously crafted components, each finished to the highest standards. The two flying tourbillons, with their upper cages in non-magnetic Cobalt Chrome and lower cages in titanium, are a marvel of engineering, ensuring exceptional accuracy and stability.
The movement is not just technically impressive; it is also visually stunning. The skeletonized design allows for a full appreciation of the intricate workings, while the hand-finished details, such as the shot-blasted main plate and NAC-coated bridges, add a touch of artistry. The Poinçon de Genève certification, one of the most demanding in the world of haute horlogerie, is a testament to the exceptional quality and craftsmanship of the movement.
The Roger Dubuis Excalibur Double Tourbillon Cobalt is more than just a timepiece; it is a wearable work of art, a testament to the enduring spirit of innovation and craftsmanship that defines the Maison. It is a watch that pushes the boundaries of traditional watchmaking, embracing new materials and techniques to create a timepiece that is as technically impressive as it is aesthetically captivating.
Courtesy of Roger Dubuis
With its limited production of just 28 pieces, the Excalibur Double Tourbillon Cobalt is a watch that is sure to become a coveted collector's item. It is a timepiece that celebrates the art of mechanical watchmaking, reminding us that in a world of mass production and disposable goods, there is still a place for objects of enduring beauty and technical brilliance.
The Roger Dubuis Excalibur Double Tourbillon Cobalt is a testament to the brand's unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of haute horlogerie. Its intricate movement, striking design, and exceptional craftsmanship come at a price that reflects its exclusivity and technical prowess. With a retail price of approximately $296,500, this timepiece is a testament to the brand's dedication to creating watches that are not only beautiful but also technically superior. It is an investment for those who appreciate the finer things in life and understand the value of true craftsmanship.