Roger Dubuis revisits the recurrent theme of the “Knights of the Round Table” and extends the collection with this latest release in pink gold and a Murano glass dial. Limited Edition of 28 pieces.
Press Release information with Editorial Commentary in italics.
Editorial commentary
Roger Dubuis is certainly known for their over the top watches. The first of the Knights of the Round Table series was introduced almost a decade ago, in 2013. And RD has peppered the collection with a few additions along the way. Each, perhaps more outrageous and more ostentatious than the last. This latest addition to the “Knights of the Round Table” collection is no exception. And this is a collection which itself is perhaps more flamboyant than the other collections within the Roger Dubuis patois. Which is saying a lot, considering that the standard RD is already more outrageous than the standard dress watch. Coupled with the nearly SGD 480k price tag, the visual impact of the watch is certainly one which cuts a huge presence. Visceral. And as much as we hate watches which are bombastic, somehow, this latest Knights of the Round Table piece has a certain appeal to us. Perhaps we are attracted to the artistry and the attention to detail. And we are impressed with the craft excellence exhibited.
The artistry of the dial is certainly very impressive. The visual image is palpable and immediate. The black Murano glass, fashioned to look like the ground is rupturing, revealing the red hot magma within. The red murano glass rehaut on the dial periphery adds to the excitement. And around this, the 12 knights sit, each used as an hour index. Each frozen in individual poses, but ready to spring into action. Each knight is a highly detailed micro-sculpture in 18k pink gold. Roger Dubuis tells us that it took 1.5 years to get the details right.
The movement used is the RD 821, a self winding movement which displays only hours and minutes. The movement is extraordinarily complicated for the simple two hand display function. It comprise of some 172 parts, with 33 rubies. The movement is finished to and receives the Geneva Seal. And has been pressed into service in various H/M Roger Dubuis timepieces. The use of a simple time only movement suggests to us that all the pomp and extravaganza is poured into the dial, and the imagery it is intended to create. Did we say impressive? Yea, we say it again. And imposing. This is not a watch for the average collector, or horology enthusiast. The wearer must have the gravitas to carry this imposing timepiece.
New: Roger Dubuis “Knights of the Round Table”
Retail price for the Roger Dubuis “Knights of the Round Table” Ref.: RDDBEX0934 is set at SGD 478,000 with GST.
Passion. Commitment. Boldness. The codes of chivalry may be thousands of years old but their virtues are still alive within the minds of many. These modern-day knights are a discerning tribe of individuals who expect the best from themselves, and everyone else around them. That is why excellence continues to be the goal for Roger Dubuis. Yet the Maison’s ultimate mission is its perpetual quest to challenge the rules of the game – and represent the future of Hyper Horology as a result.
This mindset is taken to new heights for the latest evolution of the iconic Knights of the Round Table collection. Setting a new standard, the timepiece is adorned with rare artistic mastery, outstanding craftsmanship and unbridled creativity. Infused with the legacy of a legend, yet designed with the future in mind, it is a powerful statement for the here and now. For the modern wearer who understands how the strength of the past creates power in the present – and beyond. But this story of legendary craft cannot just be told to anyone. It is a privilege reserved for a few. Ones in the know. Bold enough to discover it? Take a seat at the table.
FORGING A MYTH THROUGH MODERN CRAFTSMANSHIP
The threat is real. The battle is on. In the mysterious depths of a forgotten place, twelve brave knights prepare to defend their kingdom against the power of gravitational force. The ground is fracturing, the broken earth begins to crack. Sensing danger, the knights position themselves against this invisible enemy. Will they triumph? Bringing a legend to life in the most exciting way yet, twelve hour-marked knights cast in 18k 750/1000 pink gold are designed to appear in flux in their own unique postures. This is the true feat of hyper-expressive craftsmanship that took a year and a half to master.
Through the complex art of micro-sculpture, each character is complete with medieval armour, plates, shield and helmet, while their customised weapons are drawn ready to fight whatever bursts from beneath their feet. Here lies the stage that required the manual hand-assembly of each and every piece of the glass puzzle. With fine detailing as intricate as this, Roger Dubuis all but proves its métiers d’art credentials. An honour – like those of the knights – reserved for the few, whatever era it’s found within.
Symbolising an imagined scene where the knights prepare to defend themselves from imminent danger, each warrior is settled against a transparent blood red flange developed from precious Murano glass. This artisanal rarity is also used to construct the dark and shiny texture of the black dial. Part of the great Venetian tradition, Murano glass bends light in uniquely modern and interesting ways.
ARMED WITH HOROLOGICAL MASTERY
The evolved Knights of the Round Table timepiece merges a legend from the past with futuristic design cues to produce a charismatic emblem for right now. Powered by an automatic Monobalancier RD821 calibre, its new contemporary finish and design includes a clean-cut case made from a rich and remarkable 18k 750/1000 pink gold. Just as the fiercely brave knights are loyal to their oath of duty, the Maison is loyal to hyper expressive craftsmanship. Indeed, maintaining the highest standards of excellence included hand-finishing all parts of this 45mm movement with meticulous care, and according to the criteria of the Poinçon de Genève; one of the most exclusive stamps of certification in watchmaking today.
Meanwhile, the crown and its protector are intentionally shaped like the guard of a sword, designed to appear as if a blade is stuck inside the watch, just like the Excalibur sword in the stone that Arthur was crowned a king for pulling free.
To make the most of the knight’s fine detailing, a new transparent sapphire crystal ring under the bezel provides a full view of their elaborate facets. Now, discerning collectors are secretly invited to enjoy all aspects of their features with this hyper exclusive view available only to them.
On the back of the case, the oscillating weight is completely redesigned with a circular finish comprised of two woven layers of tilted pyramid shapes that create the appearance of castle-stained glass. Inspired by the triangular notches around the edge of the timepiece, this sophisticated design choice provides a mesmeric view of the weight moving inside the mosaic. Around the display an engraving of the famous oath spoken, as the legend goes, by all knights who sought to defend King Arthur reads: “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.” Honouring this mythical sentiment, yet designed to mark the cues of the modern world, the wearer can lean into a legend from the past to bring him power in the present.
A black calf leather strap – the first of the Knights of the Round Table collection to feature a Quick Release System – allows for easy interchangeability, while completing the luxurious look and feel of this legendary timepiece fit for the warrior of today.
Only a few privileged have the honour of wearing a Roger Dubuis Knights of the Round Table timepiece; a hyper expressive timepiece that combines the power, myth and know-how of the past and the modern world. That’s why scarcity must reign when it comes to craft like this. With a limited series of 28 pieces available exclusively in Roger Dubuis boutiques, will you become one of the lucky few?
A secret unearthed, a valiant quest embarked upon. But a legend does not die that easily, and neither does danger. What else might emerge from the deepest depths? To be continued….
NO RULES. OUR GAME.
Roger Dubuis “Knights of the Round Table” Specifications
Case: Pink gold* case with sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating Pink gold* open case back with sapphire crystal Pink gold* bezel with sapphire crystal ring Pink gold* and red Murano glass crown *Pink gold 750/1000
Size : 45mm
Water Resistance : 3 BAR (30m)
Dial : The crust is made of black Murano glass – the magma is a red varnish – the knights are in pink gold, each knight is different – the flange is made of red Murano glass
Strap
3D calf leather strap, interchangeable with Quick Release System – QRS
Type : Calf
Color : Black
Interchangeable strap : true
Clasp : Pink gold cover 750/1000 with titanium blades, triple folding, interchangeable with Quick Release System – QRS Type : Titanium
MOVEMENT
Energy: Automatic, self-winding
Indications: Hours and minutes
Power reserve: 48 hours
Decor: Rhodium-plated “Côtes de Genève” decoration “Poinçon de Genève” finishings
Technical Details
Number of pieces: 172
Number of rubis: 33
Diameter: 11 1/2”’
Thickness: 3.43 mm
Frequency: 28800 v.p.h
