Roger Dubuis's latest creation, the Knights of the Round Table: Omniscient Merlin, is a testament to this unwavering commitment to innovation and excellence. This extraordinary timepiece, limited to just 28 pieces worldwide, seamlessly blends the mystique of Arthurian legend with the technical prowess of Roger Dubuis, resulting in a watch that is as captivating as it is complex.
Before we delve into the intricacies of this horological masterpiece, let's take a moment to appreciate the legacy of the brand behind it. Founded in 1995 by
Roger Dubuis and Carlos Dias, the company quickly established itself as a force to be reckoned with in the world of high-end watchmaking. Roger Dubuis's unwavering dedication to quality and his relentless pursuit of perfection led to the brand's early adoption of the Poinçon de Genève, a prestigious certification that attests to the highest standards of watchmaking craftsmanship. This commitment to excellence is evident in every aspect of the Knights of the Round Table: Omniscient Merlin, from its intricate dial to its meticulously finished movement.
Courtesy of Roger Dubuis
The watch's design draws inspiration from the legendary wizard Merlin and the mystical landscape of the Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland. This natural wonder, formed by interlocking basalt columns, is said to have been created by Merlin himself. The dial of the watch pays homage to this legend, featuring a complex marquetry of 28 blocks of genuine basalt, 9 blocks of 18K pink gold, and 19 blocks of black and transparent glass. These blocks, ranging in height from a mere 0.2mm to 3.7mm, create a mesmerizing three-dimensional effect that draws the eye into the depths of the dial.
At the center of this miniature landscape stands a round table, where 12 micro-sculpted knights, each measuring approximately 6mm in height, are engaged in a silent battle for supremacy. These meticulously crafted figures, each with its own unique personality and battle-ready pose, are a testament to the skill and artistry of Roger Dubuis's engravers. It takes one to three days to manually engrave the final form of each pink gold warrior, with painstaking attention paid to the individual weapons and armor.
The 45mm pink gold case, with its clear sapphire ring beneath the bezel, allows for an unobstructed view of the knights from every angle. The crown protector, shaped like the guard of a sword, is a subtle nod to the legendary sword in the stone, which Merlin helped Arthur pull free. Even the 360° oscillating weight on the caseback, inspired by the stained-glass windows of medieval castles, adds to the watch's overall narrative.
Courtesy of Roger Dubuis
The Knights of the Round Table: Omniscient Merlin is not just a watch; it is a work of art that tells a story. It is a testament to the power of human creativity and the enduring appeal of ancient legends. But beyond its aesthetic beauty and narrative depth lies a horological marvel. The watch is powered by the RD821, a self-winding mechanical movement that displays the hours and minutes. This caliber, like all Roger Dubuis movements, is hand-finished to the exacting standards of the Poinçon de Genève, ensuring exceptional accuracy and reliability.
The watch's technical details are as impressive as its artistic flourishes. The RD821 movement comprises 172 components, including 33 rubies, and boasts a power reserve of 48 hours. The movement's intricate workings are visible through the sapphire crystal caseback, allowing the wearer to appreciate the mechanical ballet within.
Courtesy of Roger Dubuis
At the heart of this exceptional timepiece beats the RD821, a self-winding mechanical movement that exemplifies Roger Dubuis's unwavering commitment to precision and craftsmanship. This caliber, composed of 172 individual components, operates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz), ensuring accurate timekeeping. The movement's 33 jewels minimize friction between moving parts, contributing to its longevity and smooth operation.
The RD821 boasts a power reserve of 48 hours, allowing the watch to keep time for two full days without needing to be wound. This impressive autonomy is achieved through the careful balance of the movement's components and the efficient transfer of energy from the mainspring to the escapement.
Visible through the sapphire crystal caseback, the RD821 is a feast for the eyes. The movement's bridges and plates are adorned with Côtes de Genève, a traditional decoration that adds a touch of refinement and showcases the meticulous hand-finishing that goes into each Roger Dubuis timepiece. This dedication to detail extends to every facet of the movement, from the polished screws to the meticulously beveled edges.
Courtesy of Roger Dubuis
The Knights of the Round Table: Omniscient Merlin proudly bears the Poinçon de Genève, a prestigious hallmark that signifies the highest standards of watchmaking excellence. To earn this certification, the watch must meet strict criteria regarding its design, construction, and finishing. The Poinçon de Genève is a testament to Roger Dubuis's unwavering commitment to quality and its dedication to preserving the traditions of haute horlogerie.
Beyond its technical prowess, the Omniscient Merlin captivates with its innovative use of materials. The dial, as previously mentioned, is a masterpiece of marquetry, combining genuine basalt, 18K pink gold, and black and transparent glass. This unique blend of materials creates a visually stunning landscape that evokes the mystical aura of the Giant's Causeway.
The 45mm case, crafted from 18K pink gold, perfectly complements the dial's intricate design. The case's dimensions strike a harmonious balance between wrist presence and wearability, ensuring that the watch is both comfortable and eye-catching. The pink gold crown protector, shaped like a sword guard, adds a touch of whimsy and reinforces the watch's Arthurian theme.
Courtesy of Roger Dubuis
Completing the watch's ensemble is a black calfskin leather strap, chosen for its supple texture and refined appearance. The strap is fitted with a pink gold folding clasp and a quick-release system, allowing for easy interchangeability. This thoughtful feature enables the wearer to personalize the watch's appearance to suit their individual style.
The Roger Dubuis Knights of the Round Table: Omniscient Merlin is a limited edition of just 28 pieces, each retailing for EUR 370,000. This exclusivity reflects the watch's exceptional craftsmanship, intricate design, and the rarity of the materials used in its construction.