In the latest lap of its partnership with iconic tire-maker Pirelli, Roger Dubuis unveils an Excalibur Spider Pirelli Automatic Skeleton that features interchangeable components which can be conveniently swapped out on the go. While the watch is not an unfamiliar model, this version incorporates a quick-release system not only for the strap and crown but also for the bezel, allowing these elements to be instantly replaced for a pop of colour.
How does this work? See below:
How is this watch from Roger Dubuis inspired by racing pitstops?
Like earlier versions of the watch, the Excalibur Spider Pirelli Automatic Skeleton features a 45mm all-black DLC titanium case, making it large but lightweight. Whereas previously the bezel was affixed to the case, the bezel, along with the crown ring and strap, inspired by the pit stops in motorsport, can be changed using one of three kits, offered in Pirelli’s red, white and blue shades – with each colour available in a limited edition of 88 sets.
The partially fluted black bezel can be easily detached from the case by turning it in a counterclockwise direction while reversing the motion secures it in place with a reassuring click. To further distinguish the watch from earlier editions, the bezel echoes the design of Pirelli’s P.Zero colour-coded tires with outsized numerals at the half-hour marks and coloured inserts at the interims, lending it an even more distinctive look. The straps are still made from Pirelli’s race-winning tires, and the rest of the watch is identical to the earlier versions.
The openworked dial features a double-layered flange with screw-like hour indexes while the hands are made of PVD-coated white gold and filled with SuperLuminova for greater legibility. The dial bears the skeletonised automatic cal. RD820SQ, which incorporates a micro-rotor and offers a power reserve of 60 hours.
The entire transmission system from the automatic winding wheels to the barrel to the motion works, gear train and balance are laid bare, giving the dial a great deal of detail. The base plate as well as bridges including the star-shaped barrel bridge are covered in perlage, which further emphasises its architecture. In fact, the refined, hand-applied finishing on the movement allows it to carry the prestigious Geneva Seal, making it one of the few contemporarily styled watches on the market to bear the hallmark.
