The Excalibur Bi-Retrograde Calendar by Roger Dubuis

This year, Roger Dubuis celebrates its 30th anniversary, and for the occasion, the company pays tribute to its co-founder’s favourite complication: the bi-retrograde display.

This function, previously featured in the Excalibur Grande Complication alongside a dozen other highly complex mechanisms, takes centre stage once again. The Maison has also introduced a less complicated, more classic edition to further honour the bi-retrograde display.

Also referred to as “the ecliptic counters” by the Maison a nod to their elliptical shape and distinctive role in indicating the months and date the design showcases a symmetrical dial layout. Enhanced by refined detailing, it pays homage to the Maison’s early creations from 1996.

Glossary

Home
Glossary
Gongs

Gongs

Are the thin, coiled metal strips responsible for producing sound in mechanical watches. They are typically made of steel or other alloys with excellent sound-conducting properties. Gongs are shaped in a circular or spiral form and are carefully positioned within the watch movement. When struck by small metal hammers, they vibrate and produce distinct and melodic tones.

Gongs are used in watches that feature complex functions such as minute repeaters or alarm watches. The gongs are carefully designed and tuned to produce subtle and pleasant tones when struck.

The difference between gongs and bells:

Gongs produce a series of tones that differ in pitch and duration, while bell provide only a single tone.