As the Lunar New Year unfurls its golden beginnings,
Roger Dubuis steps into the limelight once again, captivating the world of luxury watchmaking. This time, it's with the unveiling of the Excalibur Dragon Monotourbillon. A watch that is not just a mere timepiece but a bold statement of creativity and mastery, inspired by the enigmatic Year of the Dragon. This unveiling is not just another addition to the esteemed Excalibur collection; it's a testament to Roger Dubuis' relentless pursuit of excellence and innovation in watchmaking.
Before diving into the intricacies of the Excalibur Dragon Monotourbillon, let's journey back to where it all began. Roger Dubuis, the man behind the brand, was not just a watchmaker; he was a visionary. Founded in 1995, the Roger Dubuis brand quickly became synonymous with audacious designs and technical brilliance. The Excalibur line, in particular, emerged as a flagship collection, pushing the boundaries of traditional watchmaking with its daring aesthetics and complex mechanics.
Courtesy of Roger Dubuis
The Excalibur series stands as a pinnacle of Roger Dubuis' creative genius. Known for its distinctive features like the fluted bezel and triple lugs, this collection combines avant-garde designs with intricate mechanics. Each model in the series is a celebration of craftsmanship and innovation, speaking volumes about the brand's dedication to the art of horology.
At the heart of the Excalibur Dragon Monotourbillon is a celebration of the mythical dragon, a symbol of strength and power. The watch brilliantly captures the essence of this legendary creature, not through literal representation but through an abstract artistic interpretation. This design choice is a deliberate move away from the 2020 Excalibur Dragon timepiece, signaling a deeper connection with the artistry and the personal interpretation of the wearer.
The Excalibur Dragon Monotourbillon isn't just a watch; it's a rare collectible. With only 28 pieces available, it stands as a beacon of exclusivity. Each piece is a labor of love, involving meticulous craftsmanship and an unwavering attention to detail.
Courtesy of Roger Dubuis
The dragon motif of the Excalibur Dragon Monotourbillon is a marvel in itself. Composed of 27 brass pieces with black lacquered sides and pink gold treatment, it achieves a striking 3D effect. Each of the 25 levels adds to this multi-dimensional aesthetic, making the dragon seem as if it's about to leap off the watch. On the caseback, a metallized dragon on the sapphire crystal mirrors this intricate design, completing the theme with elegance.
At its core, the Excalibur Dragon Monotourbillon is powered by the RD512SQ Calibre. This movement is a testament to Roger Dubuis' commitment to technical prowess. The flying tourbillon, a hallmark of sophisticated watchmaking, is presented in a skeletonized form. This not only showcases the intricate workings of the watch but also stands as a symbol of transparency and purity in design.
The choice of materials in the Excalibur Dragon Monotourbillon speaks volumes about its quality and functionality. The use of non-magnetic Cobalt Chrome for the upper cage of the flying tourbillon and titanium for the lower cage is a strategic decision. These materials not only ensure durability but also add to the watch's aesthetic appeal.
Embracing the opulence of the Lunar New Year, the Excalibur Dragon Monotourbillon is encased in 18K pink gold. This choice of material exudes warmth and richness, befitting the majesty of the dragon. The brass flange, treated with pink gold galvanic, and indexes filled with black Super-LumiNova™, enhance the overall allure of the watch.
Courtesy of Roger Dubuis
Central to the Excalibur Dragon Monotourbillon is its beating heart, the RD512SQ Calibre. This manually wound movement is a marvel of modern watchmaking. It's not just about keeping time; it's about showcasing the symphony of gears and springs in motion. The skeletonized design lays bare the inner workings, creating a visual feast that is both mesmerizing and informative.
A key feature of the RD512SQ Calibre is the flying tourbillon. This sophisticated mechanism counters the effects of gravity on the watch's accuracy. The choice of non-magnetic materials like Cobalt Chrome and titanium ensures that the tourbillon is not just a functional component but also a testament to Roger Dubuis' commitment to using innovative materials.
With a 72-hour power reserve, the Excalibur Dragon Monotourbillon stands out for its endurance. This extended power reserve means the watch can be left unworn over a weekend without stopping. It's a practical feature that adds to the watch's appeal for those who value both aesthetics and functionality.
The dragon design on the Excalibur Dragon Monotourbillon is a standout feature. Each of the 27 brass pieces, adorned with black lacquer and pink gold, is meticulously placed to create a stunning 3D effect. This artistic choice makes the watch not just a timepiece but a canvas where the mythical creature comes alive.
The 42mm case of the Excalibur Dragon Monotourbillon, crafted in 18K pink gold, exudes a warm, luxurious feel. The pink gold crown complements the case, creating a harmonious aesthetic. This choice of material and color scheme elevates the watch from a mere accessory to a statement piece.
Courtesy of Roger Dubuis
The use of sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating is a thoughtful addition. It ensures that the timepiece is not just durable against scratches but also offers clear visibility under various lighting conditions. The metallized dragon motif on the inside of the sapphire crystal caseback adds an element of surprise, a hidden treasure that awaits discovery.
The brass bezel and dial of the Excalibur Dragon Monotourbillon are treated with pink gold galvanic, enhancing its elegant appearance. The brass applied indexes are also treated similarly and filled with black Super-Luminova for improved readability in low light conditions.
The black calf leather strap is another aspect where comfort meets luxury. Designed to follow the contours of the wrist, it ensures a snug fit. The Quick Release System (QRS) on the strap and the pink gold triple folding buckle add to the ease of use, blending functionality with elegance.
With a water resistance of 10 bar, the Excalibur Dragon Monotourbillon is equipped to handle everyday exposure to water. This feature, while often overlooked, is crucial for a luxury timepiece, ensuring durability and functionality in various environments.
Courtesy of Roger Dubuis
The Excalibur Dragon Monotourbillon is not just an isolated masterpiece; it is part of the broader Excalibur collection, which is known for its daring designs and mechanical wonders. Each timepiece in this collection is a testament to Roger Dubuis' commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional watchmaking.
Roger Dubuis' adherence to the stringent standards of the Poinçon de Genève is evident in the Excalibur Dragon Monotourbillon. This certification guarantees the highest level of craftsmanship and functionality, ensuring that each watch is not just a timepiece but a work of art.