Roger Dubuis has unveiled a mesmerizing new addition to its renowned Knights of the Round Table collection: The Omniscient Merlin. This piece goes beyond horology, drawing its inspiration from the legendary wizard Merlin and the storied landscapes of Arthurian legend. Crafted with the brand’s unmatched expertise in design, technique, and exclusivity, the watch embodies an elevated combination of historical allure and technical mastery.
A Legendary Design of Exquisite Craftsmanship
The iconic dial, inspired by the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland—an emblematic site in Arthurian lore—acts as the “Round Table” around which twelve meticulously crafted knights stand guard. Each knight is a hand-sculpted, six-millimeter micro-sculpture in pink gold, uniquely representing one of the 12 legendary figures from King Arthur’s fellowship. Their diverse postures and intricate details contribute to an impression of depth and movement, symbolizing the unity and equality shared among them. The center table, crafted from pink gold, glass, and basalt (the very stone that forms the Giant’s Causeway), presents an enchanting perspective effect, transporting the viewer into a mystical world of legend.
The Craftsmanship of Roger Dubuis’ RD821 Automatic Movement
At the heart of The Omniscient Merlin beats the meticulously crafted RD821 automatic movement, a marvel of precision certified by the prestigious Poinçon de Genève, one of Haute Horlogerie’s most demanding certifications. This movement exemplifies Roger Dubuis’ commitment to perfection, with each of its 172 components skillfully decorated and polished to create a striking interplay of matte and reflective surfaces. The oscillating weight features a skeletonized design that adds both visual intrigue and functionality. This self-winding movement operates at a frequency of 4 Hz (28,800 vibrations per hour) and provides a 48-hour power reserve.
Specifications That Tell a Tale of Time
Every element of The Omniscient Merlin is crafted to honor both the tradition and exclusivity of Roger Dubuis:
- Case: The 45-millimeter pink gold case features an open case back, sapphire crystal ring beneath the bezel, and a glass ring inside the crown, adding a modern touch to the medieval-inspired design.
- Dial: The dial, decorated with 56 sculpted blocks of pink gold, glass, and basalt, captures the epic spirit of the Giant’s Causeway with blocks that vary in size (from 0.2 mm to 3.7 mm) and are set obliquely to enhance perspective.
- Hands: The hour and minute hands are fashioned from pink gold with satin-brushed surfaces and black SLN (Super-LumiNova) detailing in the center, creating a sleek, luxurious finish.
- Water Resistance: With a water resistance rating of 3 BAR (30 meters), the watch combines elegance with functional durability.
A Strap That Embodies the Excalibur Spirit
Following Roger Dubuis’ dedication to ethical materials, the watch is adorned with a premium calf leather strap, crafted in line with the Maison’s non-exotic policy. This luxurious strap is easily interchangeable thanks to the Quick Release System (QRS), allowing wearers to personalize their watch with ease.
A Rare Opportunity for Collectors
Limited to only 28 pieces, The Omniscient Merlin is a testament to exclusivity. Each piece not only represents the pinnacle of horological craftsmanship but also offers collectors a chance to become part of an elite circle of Roger Dubuis owners. With its triple-folding buckle in pink gold and a prestige box, The Omniscient Merlin is more than a timepiece; it is a collector’s dream and a modern artifact, binding ancient legends with contemporary artistry.
For those who acquire this masterpiece, The Omniscient Merlin will serve as both a timeless symbol of legend and a lasting testament to Roger Dubuis’ unparalleled expertise in watchmaking. This is more than a watch; it’s a journey into the heart of Arthurian myth, reimagined with the sophistication and exclusivity that only Roger Dubuis can deliver.
