Swiss haute horologist Roger Dubuis has been busy over the past few weeks following the launch of two very different timepieces.
During its 2018 Run to Monaco event, in a haze of octane vapour and burning rubber, the brand introduced its new, limited edition Excalibur Spider Pirelli Double Flying Tourbillon Red, in partnership with the eponymous Italian tyre manufacturer and Lamborghini, with whom it has been working closely since 2017. As an opening gambit last year, the self-professed “wild child of Geneva watchmaking” showcased a new movement inspired by the V12 engine found within Lamborghini’s Aventador S supercar and, once again, engineering precision and excitement have meshed with fine watchmaking to produce something very special indeed.
Limited to just eight pieces worldwide, the visually arresting new double flying tourbillon timepieces feature rubber inlays from certified Pirelli tyres that have competed in official races, with their markings staying true to the colours of each tyre’s side wall markings. For motorsport engineering and horology aficionados, it doesn’t get much more exclusive than this.
At the other end of the style spectrum, three new models offer a new take on the expressly feminine Velvet Collection, which Roger Dubuis describes as a tribute to the “expressive innovation and risk-taking” for which it is known. Featuring automatic mechanical movements, extravagant design plays out with graphic motifs on the dials, subtly distorting the shapes of the cases, with the lugs appearing to be an intrinsic part of a glamorous, cohesive look.
With a choice of straps and dials, contrasting colours provide striking visuals when paired with mother-of-pearl or dark black lacquer faces. The straps are formed using minute black or white marble crystals, lending a mesmerising shimmer – perfect for business or leisure.
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