Roger Dubuis Unveils Excalibur Lady of the Lake Hawthorn Edition: A Gem-Set Masterpiece

Elegance Meets Legend: The Hawthorn Bloom on Your Wrist

The Evolution of Feminine Grandeur: From Legendary Knights to Enchanting Ladies

Roger Dubuis has consistently championed a bold vision, exemplified by its Excalibur collection, which initially captivated audiences with its detailed micro-sculptures depicting Arthurian legends. Recognizing the demand for feminine interpretations, the brand successfully launched its Velvet collection in 2012, paving the way for more refined designs. This evolution led to the creation of the Excalibur Lady, a collection that distills the essence of Excalibur into a more elegant and wearable 36mm case, while artfully weaving in the tales of powerful female figures from the legendary King Arthur's court. The latest addition, the Hawthorn Edition, introduced for autumn, further elevates this narrative with its delicate mother-of-pearl flowers and a lavish scattering of precious gemstones, transforming each watch into a wearable piece of art.

A Glimpse into the Enchanted Forest: Design and Craftsmanship of the Lady of the Lake

At the heart of this collection is the Lady of the Lake, often known as Viviane, the mystical water fairy who bestowed Excalibur upon King Arthur. This guiding spirit is beautifully captured in the watch's design. The 36mm rose gold case, with a svelte profile of 9.85mm, retains the signature fluted bezel of the Excalibur line, yet it's reinterpreted with a distinctly feminine touch. Each segment of the bezel is meticulously set with diamonds, as are the elegant bar-shaped lugs, creating a dazzling display of brilliance. The case itself is a marvel of complex engineering, featuring polished and satin-brushed finishes, an elegantly overhanging bezel, and diamond-studded flanks that gracefully embrace the crown. The crown, sculpted in a ring-like form, subtly references the magical ring Viviane presented to Lancelot, further enriching the watch's narrative depth.

A Symphony of Layers: The Dial's Poetic Landscape

The dial of the Hawthorn Edition is a masterclass in multi-layered artistry, unfolding a poetic scene inspired by nature. The uppermost layer features a raised, snailed flange adorned with applied galvanized rose gold indices, each filled with luminescent material for optimal readability. Descending to the next level, a smooth white mother-of-pearl track provides the canvas for three-dimensional white hawthorn flowers. These delicate blossoms are meticulously sculpted from mother-of-pearl, each center sparkling with a diamond, and surrounded by vibrant red sapphires that mimic hawthorn berries. Even the small seconds sub-dial at 6 o'clock is charmingly marked by a miniature white mother-of-pearl hawthorn flower. The central expanse of the dial radiates with brilliance, set with an impressive 147 diamonds, creating a mesmerizing sparkle. Above this enchanting landscape, faceted rose gold hour and minute hands gracefully sweep, completing the dial's harmonious composition.

The Heartbeat of Elegance: The RD830 Automatic Movement

Peering through the sapphire crystal caseback, one discovers the meticulously crafted RD830 automatic movement, a testament to Roger Dubuis's commitment to high watchmaking. This exquisite caliber features an openworked 22k rose gold rotor, a visual delight for connoisseurs. Operating at a frequency of 4Hz, the movement ensures precise timekeeping and offers a robust power reserve of 48 hours. The intricate bridges and plates are adorned with traditional Côtes de Genève stripes and snailing, showcasing the exceptional finishing that is characteristic of Roger Dubuis timepieces. This mechanical heart not only powers the watch with unwavering accuracy but also serves as a beautiful display of horological art.

Final Flourishes: The Alligator Strap and Exclusivity

To perfectly complement its refined aesthetics, the Lady of the Lake Hawthorn edition is paired with a luxurious red pearlescent alligator strap, adding a touch of vibrant sophistication. The strap is secured with a rose gold pin buckle, meticulously crafted to match the case and complete the cohesive design. As a testament to its exclusivity and artisanal craftsmanship, the price of this extraordinary timepiece is available upon request, underscoring its status as a highly coveted item for collectors and enthusiasts of haute horlogerie. This edition is not just a watch; it is a statement of elegance, storytelling, and unparalleled luxur