First seen in 2013, the Roger Dubuis Excalibur Knights of the Round Table is a unique series of watches that draws inspiration from the legend of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table, incorporating elements of medieval mythology and craftsmanship into the design of the watches.
Each timepiece in this series is a limited edition intricately engraved with a depiction of the legendary Round Table, surrounded by 12 knights, each miniature sculpture representing an hour marker on the dial.
Today, Roger Dubuis unveils the next chapter in its legendary quest with the latest evolution of the Arthurian story. The tenth edition in the collection where each of the watches is part of a trilogy that tells its own story, this new piece completes the trilogy that started in 2021. And, through a synthesis of diverse skills, Roger Dubuis has created perhaps the most expressive model yet.
The 12 gallant heroes are summoned to defend their kingdom against an icy foe. The dynamic, micro-engraved, rose-gold knights come to life on the dial, creating a scene charged with energy, frozen in a moment of impending battle.
The craftsmanship involved in creating each knight involves an elaborate and meticulous process, from initial drawings to 3D scans, moulding, casting, and intricate manual engraving – a testament to Roger Dubuis’ commitment to detail.
The Knights’ quest takes them to frozen wasteland, where the dial cracks open to confront the biggest threat. Made using the Murano method, transparent ice-blue glass frames the scene, providing a captivating vibrancy. The blue glass is also used for the main disc and large blocks emerging from the lake, coated with Limoges biscuit porcelain for a glistening effect of powdered snow.
The 45mm case is a testament to Roger Dubuis’ commitment to state-of-the-art materials. Made from Titanium Damascus, it is a nod to ancient steel craftsmanship. The fiery process of stacking, heating, hammering, and folding titanium plates results in a mesmerising wave pattern, which is enhanced by an acid bath to give a truly unique finish. A bezel in polished titanium adds contrast to the matte finish of the main body.
A window beneath the bezel allows for a constant view of the detailed knights, while the caseback reveals an oscillating weight inspired by the stained-glass windows of medieval churches.
The maison’s obsession with precision is evident in the Monobalancier RD821 calibre, meticulously hand-finished according to the criteria of the Poinçon de Genève.
With a crown and protector shaped like a sword guard, the watch’s strap in dark blue, and a Quick Release System for easy customisation, this boutique-exclusive is limited to just 28 pieces worldwide.
Roger Dubuis continues its tradition of pushing boundaries, delivering an experience of Hyper Horology that echoes the words of Merlin, immortalised under the sapphire glass caseback: “Around this table, the bravest knights will gather as equals. They will set forth in search of adventure, righting wrongs, protecting the weak and humbling the proud.”
The watch is priced at £310,000 including taxes. In the words of Roger Dubuis: “Welcome to the table, where there are no rules – only our game.”
