Roger Dubuis introduces \"The Enchanter Merlin\" limited edition, a horological masterpiece that seamlessly merges intricate design with the legendary tale of Merlin. This timepiece, the latest installment in \"The Tale of Merlin\" series, captivates with its ethereal white and gold aesthetic, drawing inspiration from the mythical Crystal Palace. Each element, from the miniature knights to the sparkling dial, is meticulously crafted to evoke a sense of wonder and chivalry. This exclusive watch not only continues the brand's tradition of innovation but also offers collectors a wearable piece of art that tells a captivating story.
Roger Dubuis extends its \"Knights of the Round Table\" collection with \"The Enchanter Merlin,\" a watch that reimagines the iconic tale. Unlike its predecessor, the \"Omniscient Merlin,\" which drew from darker, basalt-inspired themes, this new edition embraces a luminous white-and-gold color scheme. This radiant palette is a direct homage to Merlin's invisible Crystal Palace, a magical edifice built for the Lady of the Lake, as depicted in Arthurian legends. The dial of this extraordinary watch is transformed into a miniature sculptural landscape, where meticulously crafted columns ascend like the walls of a grand palace, seemingly floating above a shimmering expanse of metallic crystals. This innovative design not only showcases Roger Dubuis' artistic prowess but also deepens the narrative embedded within each timepiece, inviting wearers to delve into the rich folklore of King Arthur's court.
The creation of each dial is a testament to exceptional craftsmanship, starting with an 18k pink-gold base plate that is precisely machined with hexagonal apertures. These openings serve as the foundation for 56 columns, varying in material and height, which collectively form the watch's three-dimensional face. Among these, nine columns are fashioned from Murano-style glass, known for its intricate beauty, while 19 are made from polished white enamel, and another 10 from matte white enamel, offering contrasting textures. Adding to the luxurious appeal, nine columns are crafted from polished pink gold, and nine from rhodium-plated gold. Each of these columns is meticulously topped with invisibly set hexagonal diamonds, reflecting light and enhancing the watch's brilliance. The columns, ranging in height from a delicate 0.2 mm to a more substantial 3.7 mm, create a dynamic and multi-layered visual effect. Beneath this intricate structure, a fine layer of shimmering ruthenium crystals is spread across the dial's base. This crystalline layer is designed to capture and reflect light, simulating the appearance of sunlight dancing on a serene lake, further reinforcing the illusion of Merlin's ethereal Crystal Palace.
Surrounding this dazzling tableau are twelve miniature figures, each representing a Knight of the Round Table. These sentinels, standing at an impressive six millimeters tall, are cast from 18k pink gold. Their journey from concept to creation is an elaborate one, beginning with hand-sculpted resin prototypes. These prototypes are then 3D-scanned to ensure precision, before being molded and cast in gold. Expert engravers dedicate two to three days to each knight, meticulously detailing every aspect, from the intricate designs on their swords and helmets to the textures of their armor plates. A subtle black patina is applied to enhance these fine details, giving the knights a lifelike quality. These vigilant figures are positioned against a Murano-glass flange, which is adorned with golden indices, effectively transforming them into functional hour markers. Beyond their practical role, these knights symbolize the watch's core themes of protection, courage, and chivalry, echoing the legendary virtues of Arthurian lore.
The mechanical heart of \"The Enchanter Merlin\" is housed within a robust 45 mm case, crafted from 18k pink gold, part of the distinguished Excalibur collection. The timepiece is powered by the in-house Monobalancier RD821 automatic movement, a marvel of horological engineering comprising 172 individual components. Each of these components undergoes an extensive finishing process, featuring 14 distinct types of hand finishes, a testament to the unparalleled attention to detail. This meticulous craftsmanship allows the watch to proudly bear the prestigious Poinçon de Genève, a hallmark of superior quality and traditional Geneva watchmaking. Echoing the medieval architectural themes of the watch, the crown is protected by a design reminiscent of a sword guard, adding a touch of thematic coherence. A sapphire window beneath the bezel offers a glimpse into the intricate mechanics, while a 360-degree pink-gold micro-rotor ensures efficient winding. Completing this exquisite ensemble is a quick-release white leather strap, providing both comfort and a refined aesthetic.
This remarkable timepiece, the Excalibur Knights of the Round Table: The Enchanter Merlin, is an exceedingly rare offering, limited to a mere 28 pieces worldwide. Its exclusivity is matched by its significant value, with a price of 336,000 CHF (approximately $422,179 USD). Enthusiasts and collectors alike will find this horological marvel available exclusively through Roger Dubuis boutiques, ensuring a personalized and exceptional acquisition experience. This limited availability further underscores its status as a highly coveted item, destined for those who appreciate the fusion of legendary artistry and precision engineering.