Roger Dubuis makes some incredibly bold watches, and it's no secret that some in the haute horology community may use some less flattering adjectives to describe their creations. However, while they may not be for everyone, there's no denying the creativity that goes into some of their timepieces.
The brand's connection to motorsports and chronographs is deeply embedded in its DNA. Over the past 30 years, that legacy has continuously evolved, culminating in the fifth generation of chronographs first launched in 2023 and now exemplified by the Excalibur Spider Flyback Chronograph.
The RD780 Caliber
At the heart of the Excalibur Spider Flyback Chronograph is the RD780 caliber. Central to its operation is the column wheel, proudly displayed at 6 o'clock. Beyond its striking presence, the column wheel enhances the responsiveness of the pushers, ensuring precise operation of the chronograph's start, stop, and reset functions. Crafted from stainless steel and decorated with poli zinc finishing, this component is as much a visual highlight as it is a mechanical cornerstone.
The integrated vertical clutch system is a perfect complement to the column wheel. This mechanism, similar in concept to gear-shifting in high-performance cars, guarantees accuracy and reliability, connecting the watch's design to its motorsport inspiration.
Patented Innovations for the Modern Era
The RD780 is enriched with patented innovations that set it apart. At 3 o'clock, the 120° Rotating Minute Counter (RMC) offers a dramatic visual display. Its tripartite hand rotates gracefully over oversized red numerals, creating a unique spectacle each time the chronograph is engaged. Alongside this, the Second Braking System (SBS), integrated into the vertical clutch, ensures exceptional stability of the chronograph seconds hand. It minimizes flicker and improves legibility.
Expressive Design and Mechanics
A hallmark of Roger Dubuis' aesthetics is on full display at 9 o'clock, where the tilted balance wheel sits at a 12° angle. Its position provides visibility and a sense of kinetic artistry while delivering the same inertia as a tourbillon (well, at least according to Roger Dubuis, but there's no reason to doubt this). Enhanced further by diamond-coated silicon escapement components, the balance wheel ensures durability, precision, and resistance to magnetism.
The watch is housed in an unmistakably Excalibur 45 mm skeletonized case crafted from 18K brushed pink gold. Its design exposes the depth of the caliber, while skeletonized pushers and a bold symmetrical dial amplify the dynamic aesthetic. Every layer of the design reveals textures, surfaces, and moving parts that work in harmony, a striking display of expressive geometry.
On the reverse, the rotor mirrors the world of motorsport. Shaped with five arms, any car enthusiast will immediately see that it was designed to look like the rim of a car's wheel.
Exclusivity and Craftsmanship
Limited to just 88 pieces, the Excalibur Spider Flyback Chronograph embraces exclusivity. That number carries special resonance. It was considered a lucky number by Roger Dubuis, the man behind the brand, and is discreetly highlighted on the tachymeter scale.
Beyond rarity, the watch meets the prestigious Poinçon de Genève standard. Offering 72 hours of power reserve, the chronograph achieves a balance between cutting-edge sportiness and high horology. It embodies Roger Dubuis' pursuit of innovation and creativity while remaining rooted in the traditions that defined its founder.
The Excalibur Spider Flyback Chronograph is a statement of boldness, exclusivity, and mechanical mastery. Even if you're not into the Roger Dubuis design philosophy, you should still appreciate the artistry of the watch.
