he Velvet collection is an anthem of praise to voluptuously feminine charm, an expression of discreet yet genuine luxury enhanced with a dash of daring spirit. The collection owes its special aura partly to its original design. With their graphic split-level dials creating a depth effect, elongated Roman numeral appliques converging towards the centre, finely decorated lugs that allow the bracelet to flow naturally from the 36 mm case, the timepieces playfully revisit the Roger Dubuis codes with a new sophistication. The trompe l’oeil case design, midway between a circle and a “tonneau” or barrel shape, accentuates an audacious style, while countless precious touches caress the sensual curves of the collection. Roger Dubuis has fitted this line with a latest-generation calibre, the mechanical self-winding RD821 movement – designed and developed in-house according to the purest traditions of watchmaking. Decorated with “Côtes de Genève” it comprises 172 components, runs at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations/hour (4 Hz) and has a 48-hour power reserve. Like the entire Roger Dubuis production, each watch in the Velvet collection is stamped with the prestigious Poinçon de Genève.
In 2014, based on a 36 mm white gold Haute Joaillerie model initially introduced with highlight cushion-cut diamonds, Roger Dubuis introduces a range of possibilities that is liable to bring out the Diva in every feminine watch enthusiast. Entirely paved with 367 diamonds totalling approximately 11.26 cts: baguettecut on the dial, case-band, lugs, décor and folding buckle, and brilliant-cut on the flange, these exceptional pieces stand out by two cut-to-measure precious stones of around 0.50 cts each. The client will then be able to choose her precious stones – such as deep red rubies, intense blue, pink or yellow sapphires or mysterious emeralds – so as to match her personality and her taste. Each stone is carefully selected by the Roger Dubuis gemmology experts based upon very strict criteria of cut, clarity, colour and origin, making these timepieces even more unique and exclusive.
Even the finest stones can only release their full fire if they are quite literally set to their best advantage so as to magnify each individual gem. The Velvet – Haute Joaillerie timepieces feature three main traditional methods of hand setting. The claw-setting around the cushion-cut gemstones features prongs fashioned by a goldsmith enabling the stones to stand out prominently above the rest of the piece. The baguette-cut diamonds are delicately set on the case and the folding clasp of the bracelet by the gemsetter using the taper-setting technique and in keeping with very strict tolerances so as to preserve the smooth curves of the timepiece while enhancing the pure, straight lines of the stones. The invisible setting used on the dial and on the case-band is one of the most complicated and exclusive hand-setting methods, in which the stones are set tightly together so that none of the gold is visible, thereby endowing the timepiece with a unique sparkling radiance.
These models are clasped to the wrist by a genuine Haute-Couture textured-satin strap lending an even more exclusive and refined touch. Since a genuine satin strap is by nature delicate and fragile, each timepiece also comes with an additional genuine alligator strap enabling clients to wear their timepiece on a daily basis.
Every request for the personalised setting of the bezel, dial, décor, case-band and even the crown will be attentively examined with due respect, consideration… and admiration. Available exclusively through Roger Dubuis Boutiques, this enticing opportunity to give free rein to personal imagination and inspiration will provide women with the peerless sense of individuality that comes from wearing a unique embodiment of bespoke craftsmanship executed by exceptionally talented artisans.
To view more examples, click on the top image.
