Roger Dubuis has unveiled a new addition to its Excalibur collection, the Excalibur Biretrograde Calendar in Steel. This watch is a revival of a signature biretrograde complication, co-patented by Roger Dubuis and Jean-Marc Wiederrecht in 1989. The Excalibur Biretrograde Calendar is a simpler version of the double retrograde QP, but it retains the signature retrograde aesthetic associated with Roger Dubuis. The brand has released a pink gold version, and now, a sportier stainless steel edition. The Excalibur Biretrograde Calendar in Steel is a testament to the brand's commitment to innovation and craftsmanship. The 40mm x 11.25mm stainless steel case is relatively compact, but its sharp, architectural features evoke power and visual impact. The case is highlighted with polished, shotblasted, and satin-brushed surfaces, and it is fitted with a multi-link stainless steel bracelet for a sportier feel. The dial is composed of seven layers, featuring a predominant "Cosmic Blue" color scheme with silver accents. The intense blue color is featured on the snailed flange, which hosts applied rhodium-plated hour markers with white Super-LumiNova inserts. The retrograde hands are exposed in the area contained by the sweeping crescent-shaped retrograde scales, and the exposed components are secured in place by silver-colored bridges decorated with Côtes de Genève. The arcing retrograde scales, with day-of-the-week indication on the left and the date on the right, are silver to match the case, sun-brushed, with black inscriptions and red dots. The central plate is also a Cosmic Blue color, with the small seconds counter at 6 o'clock and a matching disc at noon, inscribed with "Biretrograde Calendar" and the Poinçon de Genève shield. The time is indicated by white gold hour and minute hands with SLN inserts. The RD840 calibre, an automatic movement, is distinguished by the Poinçon de Genève certification, meaning it is fully finished throughout, even the parts that cannot be seen. The movement is finished with 14 different techniques, capturing the spirit of RD's debut watch, the Sympathie, with the biretrograde perpetual calendar movement he developed with Wiederrecht. The pink gold rotor is sculpted, and the movement has 244 components, 40 jewels, and a frequency of 28,800vph, providing an autonomy of 60 hours. The stainless steel bracelet with a triple-folding clasp features the brand's integrated Quick Release System and can be exchanged for the additional calfskin strap provided in the box. The Excalibur Biretrograde Calendar in Steel is a masterpiece of horology, combining elegance, functionality, and a rich history. It is a testament to Roger Dubuis's commitment to innovation and craftsmanship, and it is sure to be a sought-after timepiece for watch enthusiasts and collectors alike.
