Roger Dubuis: Excalibur Spider Countach DT/X

Inspired by the past, made for the future, the legendary Lamborghini Countach is making headlines again with the hybrid LPI 800-4. A limited series of 112 units that celebrates 50 years of the “dream car” from the Sant’Agata Bolognese brand presented for the first time at the Geneva Motor Show in 1971.

From the iconic design of Marcello Gandini, not only the new Countach II was born but also the Excalibur Spider Countach DT/X, the latest creation by Roger Dubuis x Lamborghini Squadra Corse.

The Excalibur Spider Countach DT/X is proof of what happens when visionary engineers meet with incredible watchmakers. Moving from track to wrist, its unparalleled aesthetics take all the signature design elements of the Countach – the essential line running from front to rear, the sharp, futuristic angles – and emulates these. Perhaps the strongest of such features is the distinctive geometry of the Periscopio roof and NACA air intakes, both of which are found scaled to size within this striking timepiece. 

Instantly recognisable for its clean crisp lines, the hexagon shape emerges all over the design of the watch in other ways too. Shaping the three-unit rear light clusters on the Countach, the same hexagonal structure is replicated and thoughtfully placed next to the ‘engines’ of the tilted flying double tourbillon. In homage to the partnership between the two rule-breakers, the red and black interior pattern of the Countach is also found on the inside of the watch engravings, parts of the glass, and its inner strap too.

AN ‘ENGINE’ OF EPIC PROPORTIONS

Named “RD112” in an ode to the limited number of supercars released, the Excalibur Spider Countach DT/X is powered by a calibre built to perform with the same efficiency as the supercar’s engine. A movement unrivalled in the world of Hyper Horology, both tourbillons being tilted at an exact 90° angle to each other to compensate the effects of gravity not only horizontally but also vertically; a complex engineering achievement pursued in the spirit of offering ultimate precision.

They also rely on a differential gear train that acts like a scale to absorb any movement differences in the two oscillators, just as the car’s differential adapts to the behaviour of the wheels on the road. Thus, the energy transformation into time happens with supreme efficacy. Furthermore, creating the tourbillon cages with a lightweight material like titanium means less energy is required for them to turn, making it possible to ensure 72 hours of power reserve. Such a complex construction is sealed with the stamp of excellence in the form of the Poinçon de Genève, with every component meticulously finished by hand by the skilled watchmakers in the Roger Dubuis Manufacture. 

MATERIALS OF ULTIMATE PROWESS

Shaped to maximise breathability and movement, while always preserving the elemental style that makes up the Maison’s DNA, the skeleton three-dimensional rubber strap is ultra-ergonomic and formed of several materials inspired by those of its supercar alter-ego, while the technology is inspired by another ground- breaking partner; tyre expert Pirelli. 

Carbon fibre on multiple sections of the car, including the monocoque chassis, cover air intakes and rocker panel, provides the optimum lightweight solution on the track with its resistance to torsion. At the same time, woven carbon found on the wing mirrors of the car drives its unique aesthetic. This inimitable chequered monochrome pattern features on the underside of the 47 mm case, while the inner strap of the timepiece features nylon mesh inserts nestled between rubber layers to bring strength to the structure. 

Opening up the road to a new extraordinary era, Roger Dubuis uses its own exclusive high-technology Mineral Composite Fibre (MCF) material to capture the exact shade of the new Countach for the case and calibre décor.Finished in the same pearlescent Bianco Siderale white, the colour that Ferruccio Lamborghini specified for his own Countach, MCF represents a technical achievement in itself. Engineered from 99.95% silica and made via a Sheet Molding Compound (SMC) process, this sturdy material is 2.5 times lighter than ceramic and 13 per cent lighter than SMC carbon. Finally, a Quick Release System on the strap enables interchangeability at the click of a button, just as the same technology on the buckle ensures easy take off. 

Like the Lamborghini Countach LPI 800-4, the Excalibur Spider Countach DT / X is also produced in a limited series, only 8 units available exclusively through Roger Dubuis boutiques for the modest price of €. 809,000.