Inspired by folklore and crafted with watchmaking magic, this light-filled timepiece delivers the second chapter in “The Tale of Merlin”, a quest that gallantly began in 2024. Lifetime Magazine had the privilege of having the first journalist in the world to handle the timepiece, experiencing its play of light and texture up close.

The Journey So Far

Since its debut in 2013, Roger Dubuis’ Knights of the Round Table collection has stood as a bold expression of fine watchmaking. Each chapter has sparked intrigue, embodying the timeless virtues of bravery and honor through cutting-edge craftsmanship and meticulous artistry.

In 2024, the saga shifted focus to the legendary wizard Merlin—founder of the Round Table and a pivotal figure in Arthurian lore. The inaugural chapter, Merlin the Omniscient, ventured to the mystical Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland, where Merlin is said to have summoned its hexagonal stones to construct Stonehenge in tribute to King Pendragon, Arthur’s forebear.

Roger Dubuis translated this myth into a striking dial composed of 56 towering columns, 28 of which were crafted from authentic basalt. This intricate design laid the foundation for the second chapter, continuing the geometric motif in a new and captivating form.

The New Chapter

The second installment delves into Merlin’s profound affection for the Lady of the Lake. Legend tells of a shimmering crystal palace he conjured for her, nestled on a lake encircled by lush gardens. So perfect was the illusion, the palace remained invisible to all but those guided by the fairy herself—a testament to Merlin’s mastery over materials and magical transformation.

Within this enchanted refuge, the Lady of the Lake was shielded from harm. For Roger Dubuis, this tale symbolizes unwavering devotion and celebrates those who go to extraordinary lengths to protect their loved ones.

Crafting a Mystical Dial

Inspired by Merlin’s ethereal palace, the dial of the new timepiece echoes the hexagonal architecture of its predecessor, now reimagined with luminous materials and refined techniques.

The base plate, precision-machined from 18K pink gold, features a matrix of holes and hexagonal recesses. Into these, 56 columns are meticulously set: 9 Murano-style glass, 19 polished white enamel, 10 matte white enamel, 9 rhodium-plated gold and 9 polished 18K pink gold. Their varying heights—from 0.2mm to 3.7mm—create a dynamic terrain of contrast and depth.

The Invisibility Setting

Atop the rhodium-plated gold columns sit hexagonal diamonds—an uncommon masculine cut that reveals sharp edges and maximizes brilliance from every angle. For the first time, Roger Dubuis employs an “invisibility setting,” where each diamond is clipped into concealed grooves, achieving a seamless, almost magical appearance.

Beneath the dial lies a layer of ruthenium crystals, a rare platinum-group metal known for its silvery-white shimmer. This crystallized surface mimics a tranquil lake, tying the design back to Merlin’s enchanted realm and showcasing the Maison’s mastery of material alchemy.

Twelve Vigilant Knights

Encircling the dial are 12 Arthurian knights, guardians of the Lady of the Lake. Positioned before a white Murano-style glass flange, each knight marks an hour with a distinct pose—swords raised, armor secured, captured in motion rather than stillness.

The creation of each 6mm-tall knight begins with detailed sketches and resin prototypes, followed by 3D scanning and casting in 18K pink gold. Master engravers then devote two to three days to each figure, carving delicate blades, etching helmet lines, and adding personality to every detail. A touch of black patina enhances contrast and reveals the depth of each miniature.

To ensure full appreciation of this craftsmanship, a sapphire window beneath the bezel allows wearers to admire the knights from every angle, along with the interplay of light and shadow across the dial’s columns.

The Certified Calibre

Powering this masterpiece is the automatic Monobalancier RD821 calibre, developed entirely in-house. Comprising 172 components, its compact design leaves room for the knights above. With 14 types of hand-finishing, it meets the rigorous standards of the Poinçon de Genève certification. Encased in a 45mm 18K pink gold case, the watch features a crown protector shaped like a sword guard—symbolizing Arthur’s legendary blade drawn from stone. On the reverse, the 360° oscillating weight evokes stained-glass windows of medieval castles, crafted in rhodium-plated 18K pink gold. Though lighter and smaller than traditional rotors, it delivers reliable performance, balancing aesthetics with functionality.