Roger Dubuis Excalibur Knights of the Round Table History

A Practical Owner Checklist

Understanding your Roger Dubuis Excalibur Knights of the Round Table begins with careful observation of its dial, case and movement details.

Begin by examining the dial under good light. The dial motif should show the knights of the Round Table with Arthur, rendered as a group of miniature figures. Each knight is individually formed, and small differences in the figures may help separate one version from another. Count the number of knights visible and note whether the design uses applied elements or engraved details. Next inspect the case for the characteristic bold shape with its pronounced lugs and bezel design. The specialist checks the case, caseback, engravings and movement. These initial steps help establish which generation of the Knights of the Round Table you own without needing specialist tools.

Turn the watch over and note any engravings. Many versions carry individual numbering that corresponds to limited editions. Look at the crown and how it integrates with the overall design. The hands and hour markers can also differ across releases, so note their shape, finish and any luminous treatment. Photograph each of these elements clearly as they form the foundation for accurate assessment. This checklist allows owners to place their watch within the broader timeline of the collection before considering a sale.

Origins and Design Story

Roger Dubuis co-founded his independent watchmaking house in Geneva in 1995, concentrating on high complications and finely finished movements. The Excalibur collection emerged as a flagship line that combined technical excellence with dramatic design language inspired by medieval legend. The Knights of the Round Table models appeared during the 2010s, with a sculptural scene of twelve miniature knights as the theatrical centrepiece.

The design draws directly from Arthurian mythology, with each knight individually sculpted and positioned to represent the legendary fellowship. This three-dimensional dial gives the Arthurian scene a strong sense of depth, merging haute horlogerie with narrative storytelling. They sit within Roger Dubuis's manufacture tradition, reflecting the brand's commitment to high standards of finishing and precision. Subsequent generations refined the execution while preserving the core drama of the knight figures, making each version a distinct chapter in the brand's modern history.

A tourbillon, where the watch has one, is a technical feature to note alongside the knightly scene. The storytelling rests in the sculpted Arthurian scene, and a tourbillon, if present, should not be assumed to set the knights in motion. This fusion of artistry and engineering became a signature of the Excalibur Knights of the Round Table in Roger Dubuis's modern range.

Identifying Main References and Generations

Early versions of the Knights of the Round Table typically feature a bold case and a highly sculptural dial where the knights stand in pronounced relief. These initial releases often incorporate rich materials and intricate hand-finishing on each miniature figure. Later pieces may differ in case proportions, dial architecture, bezel and lug design, and those differences are worth noting.

Distinguishing factors include the treatment of the knights themselves. The figures may differ in finish and level of detail, so those traits are useful when comparing references. If a tourbillon is fitted, its placement and appearance are also useful identification points. Case materials range across precious metals, each affecting the overall weight and appearance of the watch.

Movement variations provide further identification points. While all versions adhere to high standards of finishing, the exact architecture and additional functions differ between families. Examining the dial layout, particularly the positioning of any subsidiary indications, helps determine the specific generation. These details allow an owner to understand precisely which iteration of the Knights of the Round Table they possess.

Common Pitfalls When Selling

Many owners underestimate the importance of documenting every surface of the watch before approaching a buyer. Scratches on the caseband, subtle wear on the bezel edges or minor marks on the lugs can significantly influence assessment, yet they are easily missed without systematic photography. Another frequent oversight involves failing to note the exact configuration of the knights and any variations in their colouring or finishing, details that separate one limited edition from another.

Incomplete service history can also complicate matters even though documentation is not required to begin the process. Sellers sometimes delay contact because they believe the watch needs professional servicing first, yet this is unnecessary. The most valuable approach is to share clear, well-lit photographs of the watch in its current state, allowing specialists to evaluate it accurately. Attempting to interpret markings from memory rather than checking the actual watch frequently leads to confusion between closely related versions.

Overlooking the crown and its function, or not capturing the precise behaviour of the rotating knights under different lighting, can result in an incomplete picture. These pitfalls are easily avoided by methodical documentation and by sending the watch exactly as it is rather than attempting any preparatory work.

Paperwork, Boxes and Completeness

While original boxes, certificates, and any accompanying paperwork add context to a Roger Dubuis Excalibur Knights of the Round Table, they are not essential to begin the valuation process. The watch itself provides the primary information through its physical details and markings. Any available documents can be shared after an initial offer is made, allowing for a more complete evaluation during the inspection stage.

Limited edition numbering forms an important part of completeness. These elements help confirm the specific version and its place within the production sequence. Even without papers, an accurately documented watch can receive a prompt and fair response.

The presence of the original hang tags, warranty cards or additional accessories is welcomed when available. However the absence of these items does not prevent an offer. Focus instead on providing comprehensive photographs of the watch from every angle, including close-ups of all engravings and the movement if visible.

Condition and Signs of Wear

Condition assessment focuses on the state of the case, dial and movement. Look for even wear across the high points of the case, particularly on the bezel and lugs where contact with surfaces is most frequent. The sculptural dial with its knight figures requires careful examination as fine details on the miniatures can show signs of handling over time. The crystal should be checked for scratches that might affect visibility of the rotating elements.

The movement's performance and any service records contribute to understanding overall condition, although the watch can be evaluated in its present state. Pay attention to how the hands run and whether any tourbillon functions smoothly, as these mechanical aspects are central to the watch's character. Leather straps or bracelets often show creasing or stretch marks that reflect genuine use rather than detracting from appeal.

Each generation of the Knights of the Round Table responds differently to wear because of variations in materials and surface finishes. What matters is honest documentation of the current condition so that an accurate offer can be prepared. Minor marks consistent with normal use are expected in pre-owned examples and do not preclude a positive response.

How Different Versions Affect Assessment

The earliest Knights of the Round Table releases command attention through their dramatic scale and the complexity of their dial sculpture. Later versions may feature updated case geometries or refined finishing techniques that appeal to different preferences. Materials used in the case and dial elements further differentiate the generations, with each combination creating a distinct aesthetic and tactile experience.

Demand varies according to the specific reference, the completeness of its design execution, and how faithfully it represents the Arthurian theme. Certain limited editions have become recognised within collector circles for their particular balance of technical innovation and artistic detail. These factors, alongside the individual condition of your example, shape how it is received in the market.

Understanding which version you own therefore provides valuable context. By comparing the physical characteristics against known design progressions, owners can better appreciate the place their watch occupies within the Excalibur lineage. This knowledge supports informed decisions when the time comes to sell.

Selling Your Roger Dubuis Knights of the Round Table

The process of selling your Roger Dubuis Excalibur Knights of the Round Table to EncoreLuxe is straightforward and begins with the valuation form located near the top of this page. Upload clear photographs of the dial, case, caseback, any engravings, the crown and the overall condition of the watch. These images allow our specialists to understand the generation and reference quickly, usually resulting in an offer within minutes at any time of day or night.

Once you accept the offer we arrange free fully insured collection or you can post the watch to us at our expense. Upon arrival the watch undergoes verification to confirm it matches the photographs and description. Payment follows by bank transfer on the same day once everything is confirmed. Should the inspection reveal discrepancies that lead you to decline our final valuation, we return the watch to you fully insured at no cost. There is no obligation at any stage and no fee for the service.

This approach respects the unique character of each Knights of the Round Table while providing certainty and convenience. By focusing on clear photography and honest description from the outset, the entire journey from initial contact to final decision remains calm and transparent.

Frequently asked by sellers

How can I tell which generation of Roger Dubuis Knights of the Round Table I own? Examine the dial sculpture, case proportions, knight detailing and any engravings. These elements can differ between examples and help describe where the watch sits among known versions.

Do I need the original box and papers to receive an offer? No. While welcome, boxes, certificates and paperwork are not required to start the process. Clear photographs of the watch provide the necessary information for an initial valuation.

What should I photograph before submitting the valuation form? Capture the full dial showing all knights, the case from multiple angles, the caseback with any engravings, the crown, lugs and any visible movement details. Good lighting helps reveal condition accurately.

Will my watch be returned if I decline the final offer? Yes. If you decide not to proceed after inspection we return the watch free of charge and fully insured. There is no obligation or fee involved at any point.

How long does it typically take to receive an offer? Offers are usually prepared within minutes of receiving clear photographs, available 24 hours a day. The speed reflects our focus on efficient and respectful service.

Is it necessary to service the watch before selling? No. Send the watch in its current condition. We evaluate it as found and any service considerations can be discussed after the initial assessment.