A new Monotourbillon marks the 3rd episode in the watchmaking collaboration between Roger Dubuis and renowned tattoo artist, Dr. Woo. Roger Dubuis and Dr. Woo combine forces to launch the 3rd episode in their Excalibur watchmaking odyssey. This time, the journey goes on a galactic peace mission. Finding inspiration in the unimaginable depths of space. And transporting both to a new dimension of creativity.
Introducing the Excalibur Monotourbillon Dr. Woo Episode III
Having developed his own distinctive single needle style, Dr. Woo has elevated the art of tattooing with complexity and sophistication. This has made the partnership with Roger Dubuis all the more authentic. Both sides share a passion for expressivity and both have earned a reputation for design exploration, where traditions are reinterpreted through modern techniques and signature aesthetics. By working closely together once again, this next collaborative timepiece delves further into realms of decorative originality and reveals a showcase of mechanical excellence.
For this third episode, Roger Dubuis and Dr. Woo travelled 31 million light years into space, finding inspiration in a distant realm known as the “Tourbillon Galaxy.” Also named Messier 51a, or the Whirlpool Galaxy, this spiralling formation was photographed by the James Webb Telescope in August 2023, revealing its striking arms that serve the important purpose of star-formation factories, creating clusters of new stars. For the creative minds behind this new timepiece, there is a clear connection between the clockwise turn of the Tourbillon Galaxy and the way in which a tourbillon complication moves in its precise measurement of time, as well as with Roger Dubuis’ signature astral shape.
Tourbillon transformed
The manufacture’s calibre RD515 features the revered tourbillon, a mechanism that highlights the horological expertise of Roger Dubuis. Signature details, such as a flying tourbillon positioned at 7 o’clock are seen in this movement. Yet, to make Dr. Woo’s wondrous vision a reality, Roger Dubuis’ watchmakers have slightly transformed its cage: while the lower cage remains in lightweight titanium, the upper bridge has been reduced to its most minimalistic shape (with just 3 arms) in order to welcome a spiral inspired by the Tourbillon Galaxy. This décor is specifically created in stainless steel, as it’s the best material for the complex shape, and also allows Roger Dubuis to perform its signature mirror polish to give the piece a gleaming finish. Along with the 72 hours of power reserve, the calibre RD515 is certified by the Poinçon de Genève that evaluates not only the provenance and reliability, but also the quality of craftsmanship. Each one of the 193 components of the movement has been hand-decorated using 16 different types of remarkable finishing.
Bi-colour materials and mysteries
To frame all of the inspirational details within this Excalibur timepiece, Roger Dubuis has used the rare bi-colour combination of 18K pink gold and titanium. These materials are featured in the 42mm case, as well as the bracelet with its Quick Release System, offering the benefits of prestige, resilience, and light weight. And to leave his final mark, Dr. Woo’s mysterious design language is laser-engraved around the bezel and the middle links of the bracelet. These symbols are open to interpretation, deepening the connection between the wearer and the artist.
Roger Dubuis rarity on the wrist
The Excalibur Monotourbillon Dr. Woo Episode III is a special example of what Roger Dubuis brings to the world of horology today. Not only a dynamic execution of high watchmaking, but also a theatrical delivery of storytelling and art.
With this timepiece, limited to just 28 pieces, transformed tourbillon mechanics are combined with the playful creativity of Dr. Woo – showing exactly what happens when two worlds of expressivity meet.
