In this “Year of the Velvet Diva”, the Manufacture is exploring ve key facets of the a natural-born Roger Dubuis diva who can be alternately sophisticated, feline, conquering, visionary, magnetic and visionary – or indeed all at once. This unique vision of the diverse aspects characterising the contemporary femme fatale and inspirational muse is powerfully channelled through the Velvet collection.

For the ‘jeweller of rare artistic timepieces’, Velvet represents an opportunity to showcase twin elds of expertise fully mastered by Roger Dubuis: mechanical high-end horology and stunningly creative jewellery-making. These charismatic models are distinguished by voluptuous trompe l’oeil cases combining tonneau (barrel) and circular shapes, along with split-level dials creating fascinating depth effects and distinctive ornamental central lugs.

Amping up the glamour

Velvet Ribbon takes things to the next level by combining the uncompromising standards epitomised by Poinçon de Genève certi cation with an undeniable talent for design as well as gemsetting excellence. These dressy and superbly glamorous models have a unique sparkle to match that of the re ned and discerning women who will adopt them. The two new creations completing the trilogy are issued in limited editions playing with the Roger Dubuis lucky number 8 and admirably con rming the ongoing challenge set – and risen to – by the Manufacture: Dare to be Rare.

Looping the loop

The new Velvet Ribbon wristworn timepiece is every inch the dainty diva with its 385 gemstones totalling approx. 8.67 carats. Its 36 mm white gold case and decorative lugs fully paved with baguette-cut diamonds create a pleasing contrast with the brilliant-cut diamonds adorning the inner bezel ring and ribbons. The latter are tied into delicate bows looping through the famous Velvet central lugs framing the white gold appliques at 12 and 6 o’clock. These signature ornamental motifs shine with particular brilliance against the smooth black satin- nish fabric strap. Even the adjustable white gold folding clasp is set with brilliant-cut diamonds, symbolising Roger Dubuis’ enduring commitment to quality and brilliance in every detail. The shimmering mother-of-pearl dial is eminently legible with its typically Velvet large converging Roman numerals, soberly and accurately keeping time to the tune of its RD821 self- winding mechanical calibre featuring Poinçon de Genève nishes. Issued in a limited edition of 88, this Velvet Ribbon epitomises the exclusive and sophisticated nature of the Roger Dubuis woman.

Not content with adorning the wrist of the sophisticated diva, Roger Dubuis also graces her neckline with a ravishing pearl sautoir necklace. This stunning Velvet Ribbon jewellery piece also offers a ne example of Haute Horlogerie as envisioned by the Manufacture: an ideal blend of competence, creativity and craftsmanship.

It takes the ribbon concept to its ultimate conclusion by making time literally dangle as a pendant from the end of a owing strand of immaculate Akoya pearls, interspersed with the lustrous glow of onyx beads.While the signature ribbon bow at 12 o’clock gently enclasps the pearl necklace,the symmetrically opposite second ornamental lug holds a darkly gleaming tassel. Its 19 streaming rows of 266 onyx beads tipped by Akoya pearls create a mirror-image white on black effect complementing the black on white theme of the main necklace.

On this model, the baguette-cut diamonds paving the white gold case and decorative lug also cover the entire dial. Free of any numerals so as to give pride of place to the splendid gemsetting, this scintillating face of time also admirably highlights the Velvet ‘barrel in a circle’ theme. In tune with the subtle retro charm of this Velvet Ribbon, the RD801 calibre is a mechanical hand-wound movement, naturally endowed with Poinçon de Genève nishing. Only eight examples of this creation are to emerge from the Roger Dubuis workshops and each will in fact be unique because of the nature of the gems themselves, as well as the individual ne workmanship involved in setting them.

Dancing with destiny

These two brand-new ultra-glamorous Velvet Ribbon creations will be unveiled at the not- to-be-missed Roger Dubuis event staged in Shanghai on October 20th 2016. They will set a glittering culminating touch to the year by showcasing its impressive range of Haute Joaillerie and Haute Horlogerie skills through these re ned tributes to sophisticated femininity. Alongside these twin launches, the event will turn the spotlight rmly on Roger Dubuis’ iconic Excalibur collection.