2017 sees Roger Dubuis take the fast track with the introduction of stunning world premieres as well as the big reveal of its brand-new alliance with Pirelli, a perfect match on all key levels and a kindred spirit in delivering money can’t buy experiences.

2017 also sees the big unveil of a spectacular new luxury alliance between two partners who have long since grasped the fact that exclusive service leaves a lasting imprint on hearts and minds – as well as on racing tracks and connoisseurs’ wrists. Pirelli is a pioneer in technical and industrial innovations and is the sole supplier of premium tyres to the world’s flagship motorsports competitions.

Excalibur, the iconic Roger Dubuis collection epitomises the boldly adventurous nature of a Manufacture that has always been determined to stay several laps ahead of the pack. It also provides the perfect showcase for the Astral Skeleton principle of star-patterned skeleton movements.

Roger Dubuis, designed this model with straps featuring rubber inlays from certified Pirelli winning motorsport tyres having competed in real races – and adorned with legendary tread motifs reproducing the profile of a Pirelli CinturatoTM intermediate tyre.

The robust 45mm skeleton case with its black DLC titanium elements and contrasting blue touches provides a perfect frame for Calibre RD820SQ.

Following its dramatic stage entrance with a first model introduced at the SIHH 2016, Velvet Ribbon once again shines in the spotlight with two elegant and timeless new creations. They complete a supremely sophisticated trilogy that exquisitely embodies this particular facet of the Roger Dubuis woman.

In this “Year of the Velvet Diva”, the Manufacture is exploring five key facets of the a natural-born Roger Dubuis diva who can be alternately sophisticated, feline, conquering, visionary, magnetic and visionary – or indeed all at once. This unique vision of the diverse aspects characterising the contemporary femme fatale and inspirational muse is powerfully channelled through the Velvet collection.

Velvet Ribbon takes things to the next level by combining the uncompromising standards epitomised by Poinçon de Genève certification with an undeniable talent for design as well as gemsetting excellence. These dressy and superbly glamorous models have a unique sparkle to match that of the redefined and discerning women who will adopt them. The two new creations completing the trilogy are issued in limited editions playing with the Roger Dubuis lucky number 8 and admirably confirming the ongoing challenge set – and risen to – by the Manufacture: Dare to be Rare.

The new Velvet Ribbon wristworn timepiece is every inch the dainty diva with its 385 gemstones totalling approx. 8.67 carats. Its 36 mm white gold case and decorative lugs fully paved with baguette-cut diamonds create a pleasing contrast with the brilliant-cut diamonds adorning the inner bezel ring and ribbons. The latter are tied into delicate bows looping through the famous Velvet central lugs framing the white gold appliques at 12 and 6 o’clock. These signature ornamental motifs shine with particular brilliance against the smooth black satin-finish fabric strap. Even the adjustable white gold folding clasp is set with brilliant-cut diamonds, symbolising Roger Dubuis’ enduring commitment to quality and brilliance in every detail. The shimmering mother-of-pearl dial is eminently legible with its typically Velvet large converging Roman numerals, soberly and accurately keeping time to the tune of its RD821 selfwinding mechanical calibre featuring Poinçon de Genève nishes. Issued in a limited edition of 88, this Velvet Ribbon epitomises the exclusive and sophisticated nature of the Roger Dubuis woman.

Not content with adorning the wrist of the sophisticated diva, Roger Dubuis also graces her neckline with a ravishing pearl sautoir necklace. This stunning Velvet Ribbon jewellery piece also offers a fine example of Haute Horlogerie as envisioned by the Manufacture: an ideal blend of competence, creativity and craftsmanship.

As the 2016 racing season gears up, ready to roar into action, Roger Dubuis lines up on the starting grid of GT championship racing in the world-class company of the FFF Racing Team recently created by the 31 year-old Chinese tycoon Fu Songyang.

Multiple parallels can be drawn between the world of motorsports and that of Roger Dubuis, including dedication to performance and precision, along with a determination to stay ahead of the pack. First and foremost, however, their natural affinities are based on a shared and relentless obsession with incredible mechanics, expressed through finely tuned engines and equally state-of-the-art, meticulously honed movements. Moreover, this compelling enthusiasm for technical complexity is backed by an equally powerful penchant for sophisticated design conveyed through streamlined bodywork as well as in the sleek exteriors of Roger Dubuis timepieces. Given its whole-hearted nature manifested in all its endeavours, Manufacture Roger Dubuis has opted to sign a partnership as primary sponsor of the FFF Racing Team.

Within the framework of this prestigious partnership, five GT supercars (two Lamborghinis and three McLarens used by FFF), driven by five professional drivers, will be proudly competing in the colours of the Manufacture.

To mark this auspicious cooperation, Roger Dubuis is issuing an eight-piece limited edition of its already iconic Excalibur Quatuor, introduced in 2013 and whose affinities with the world of racing are vividly apparent.