Roger Dubuis Excalibur 42 Lapis lazuli
- #rogerdubuis
- 22 Feb 2022
Roger Dubuis has a unique history as a watch manufacture. Started by a Genevian master watch marker in 1995 it pretty much produced limited artistic timepieces. In 2008 it was purchased by the Richemond group, which extensive portfolio of luxury companies include Cartier, JLC, Lange, IWC, Panerai etc.
Today the motto is "no rules, our game" and is mostly specialisied in very high end watches mostly with their now typical skeletonised dials. In 2012 the lineup included some more classic design and definitely different. We review a watch launched in that year, the Roger Dubuis Excaibur 42 with Lapis lazuli dial Ref. RDDBEX0349.
This was a limited edition of 188 pieces in white gold. It was the first time the "Excalibur" was launched in a more restrained 42mm (vs the usual 45mm). Being a natural stone the texture of the dial is unique on each watch. No matter how nice a blue dial is, nothing can match the natural color of lapis lazuli.
With a blue shirt and lapis lazuli cufflinks we have a very elegant combination.
the elongated roman numbers give to the watch a classic yet contemporary feel
The natural blue of the dial varies depending on the light conditions.
the standard alligator strap and deployant clasp are a good fit and very comfortable.
The watch is powered by the in house movement RD622 with Poinçon de Genève Certification, Self-winding mechanical movement with micro-rotor, 133⁄4’’’, 33 jewels, finely adjusted in five positions, rhodium - plated,“Côtes de Genève” decoration. Frequency: 4 Hz (28,800 vph) Power reserve: 52 hours Number of parts: 179 components Thickness: 4.50 mm.
The case of the Excalibur is bold. It is now part of the Roger Dubuis DNA of daring timepieces but, in this 42mm white gold version (which is just 10.4mm thick) it manages to be not too loud and well suited for an office enrironment. A non-conventiona but excellent choise for the modern CEO.