For over a decade, Roger Dubuis has been reinterpreting the Arthurian universe through its expressive and iconic Knights of the Round Table creations. After honoring wisdom in 2024 with the Omniscient Merlin and magic in 2025 with the Enchanter Merlin, the Geneva manufacture unveils the final chapter of this trilogy: the Knights of the Round Table: Metamorph Merlin, a limited edition of just 28 pieces celebrating the mythical shapeshifting powers of the legendary wizard.
Three-Dimensional Architecture: A Mythical Forest in 57 Blocks
The dial of this timepiece is far more than a decorative backdrop; it is a multidimensional architectural sculpture inspired by the forest where legend says Merlin assumed multiple forms. Building upon the hexagonal geometry introduced in previous chapters—inspired by the basalt columns of the Giant’s Causeway—the dial comprises 57 individually crafted blocks set at varying heights:
- Material Harmony: Integrates 24 blocks in polished glass with green CVD coating, 10 blocks in shotblasted glass with green CVD coating, 7 blocks in polished pink gold, 6 blocks in transparent glass with green CVD tops, 9 blocks in smooth transparent glass, and 1 central block in shotblasted pink gold.
- Crystalium Inlays: Features 9 Crystalium flooring inlays with green CVD coating over a pink gold base, producing dynamic light reflections and depth.
- Twelve Micro-Sculpted Knights: Framed around the dial, twelve micro-sculpted pink gold knights serve as hour markers. Measuring just 6 mm in height, each knight requires three full days of hand-engraving and polishing by a master artisan.
Hand-Engraved Case Band: A First for the Collection
For the first time in the history of the Knights of the Round Table collection, the storytelling extends beyond the dial onto the 18k pink gold case itself (45 mm in diameter and 16.87 mm thick). The case band is entirely hand-engraved in micro-relief to depict Merlin in two mythical forms:
- The White Hart: A symbol of metamorphosis and the bridge between the visible and invisible worlds.
- The Wise Sage: Represented holding a book, reflecting his omniscient knowledge.
The crown guards are shaped as swords evoking Excalibur, while the green accents on the crown recall the lush forest surrounding the legend.
In-House Caliber RD821 with Geneva Seal
At the core of this creation beats the manufacture automatic caliber RD821, comprising 172 components, operating at 4 Hz (28,800 vph), and offering a 48-hour power reserve. Designed specifically to fit within the 3D architecture of the dial, every single component features traditional hand-finishing certified by the prestigious Poinçon de Genève. On the reverse side, a 360° skeletonized rotor inspired by medieval stained-glass windows completes the mechanical artwork.
⚙️ Quick Technical Snapshot
Roger Dubuis Excalibur Metamorph Merlin
45 mm 18k pink gold hand-engraved case, 3D dial with 57 geometric blocks in green tones, 12 micro-sculpted 6 mm pink gold knights, and Poinçon de Genève certified caliber RD821. Limited edition of 28 pieces.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Roger Dubuis Knights of the Round Table: Metamorph Merlin |
|---|---|
| Case | 18k (750/1000) pink gold, hand-engraved case band (45.0 mm x 16.87 mm) |
| Dial | 57 geometric blocks (pink gold, green CVD glass, Crystalium); 12 micro-sculpted 6 mm pink gold knights |
| Hands | Pink gold with satin-brushed finish |
| Movement | Manufacture Caliber RD821 automatic (172 components, 33 jewels) |
| Certification | Poinçon de Genève (Geneva Seal) |
| Frequency / Power Reserve | 28,800 vph (4 Hz) / 48 hours |
| Water Resistance | 3 BAR (30 meters) |
| Strap | Green calf leather strap with Quick Release System (QRS) and pink gold triple-folding buckle |
| Limited Edition | 28 pieces |
💬 Editor’s Take
The Pinnacle of Sculptural Horology
Extending the narrative of the Knights of the Round Table into the micro-relief engraving on the case itself represents a bold evolution for Roger Dubuis. The three-dimensional interplay of green CVD blocks alongside 6 mm hand-engraved figures proves once again why the manufacture stands at the forefront of Hyper Horology.
