We’ve been so used to expect the unexpected from Roger Dubuis that we almost don’t even bet any more on what the brand will unveil. But this time, at the SIHH, the manufacture decided to go more conventional ways. No more quadruple escapement ? Well, almost none : only a new finishing of the outstanding (and one million dollar) Quatuor, now available in titanium for a limited edition of 188 pieces.
But the real big news is the creation of the fifth collection of Roger Dubuis. This new pillar is, according the M. Dubuis himself, the last for « at least 10 or 15 years ». Five complete ranges of watches is a lot, but the manufacture will work on them all simultaneously from now on.
Mr Dubuis standing in front of the Roger Dubuis Stand at SIHH 2014
« Hommage » is the name of this new pillar. It will include not less than 10 references. They’re all based upon in-house calibers, and, like any Dubuis’ watches, will be marked by the Geneva seal. We’ll have, basically, three chapters in the Hommage collection, focusing respectively on haute horlogerie, vintage and chronographs. Common points ? A more sober design, and Mr Roger Dubuis personnal signature on the back of the case.
This case has been completely redesigned, but still shows Dubuis’ trademark, such as the guilloché on the dial, round lugs, and the limited edition marked on the side of the dial, which was previously unseen before. Diameters will go from 42 mm up to 45. The Hommage Double flying tourbillon with hand-made guilloché is offered in four variations. Prices : 275’000 up to 590’000 CHF, depending on the finishing.
Roger Dubuis Hommage Double Flying Tourbillon
The Hommage Tribute to Mr Roger Dubuis is inspired by a particularly sophisticated model the founder launched in 2003 and features the same combination of functions : the flying tourbillon, but also a large date display for optimal readability and a power-reserve segment. This vintage-style timepiece with a modern twist is issued in a limited edition of 208 – a specific reference to his student registration number during his time within the institution.
The chronograph model available in pink or white gold versions is powered by the RD680 movement with micro-rotor – a signature of the Manufacture Roger Dubuis. It’s positioned at 40’000 CHF. Hommage chronographs and automatic models share similarly appealing guilloché dials. The Hommage Automatic models have a combination of traditional and modern elements. Their unique conception is based on the RD620 self-winding calibre, beating at 28,800 vibrations per hour and representing a new generation of Roger Dubuis movements. Naturally designed, developed and manufactured in-house, this self-winding movement features characteristically shaped bridges, springs and levers, as well as the signature Roger Dubuis micro-rotor.
Each of these models embodies another facet of Roger Dubuis’ commitment to fine watchmaking, as illustrated in its 100% Poinçon de Genève-certified production. The very same commitment that has shaped and defined its all-new booth at the SIHH 2014 that invites visitors to step inside a 21st century mechanical feast. CEO Jean-Marc Pontroué is proud to be reintroducing the fifth collection in this an original stage-setting that highlights the world of Incredible Mechanics at the heart of the Roger Dubuis universe.
