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

PVD

Physical Vapor Deposition Is a technique used to coat the surfaces of metal watch components by depositing a thin layer on the surface of the watch components through actual vaporization and condensation. This method contributes to enhancing the durability and overall appearance of the watch.

In this process, the watch components such as the case, bezel, and bracelet are placed in a designated location with the desired coating material. A specific environment is created under defined conditions, and then an electric arc, magnetron sputtering, or other techniques are used to vaporize the targeted coating material. The vaporized material condenses onto the surface of the watch components, forming a thin layer.

Various metals can be used for coating watch parts using this technique, such as silver, gold, platinum, carbon, chromium, and other metals.