From Legend to Haute Horlogerie: A Tribute to Merlin’s Shapeshifting Powers

Last Update: Thursday, September 24, 2026 : 12:57 (+4GMT)

For more than a decade, Roger Dubuis has reimagined the Arthurian legend through its expressive Knights of the Round Table creations. Each successive trilogy has explored a different chapter of this legendary universe through refined métiers d’art, architectural displays and uncompromising mechanical expertise.

The fourth book of the saga is dedicated to Merlin, the legendary wizard, prophet and advisor whose wisdom shaped the destiny of King Arthur and the Round Table.

Following the Omniscient Merlin in 2024, which celebrated the sorcerer’s all-seeing wisdom, and the Enchanter Merlin in 2025, dedicated to his mystical powers, Roger Dubuis now unveils the concluding chapter of the trilogy: the Metamorph Merlin.

Paying tribute to Merlin’s extraordinary ability to shapeshift, this new creation draws on the symbolism of the mythical white stag, representing transformation and the passage between the visible and invisible worlds.

It explores a new facet of Merlin’s legend while once again transforming ancient mythology into a contemporary work of Haute Horlogerie.

AN ARCHITECTURAL LANDSCAPE

Inspired by the mythical forest where Merlin is said to have assumed multiple forms, and where the Lady of the Lake is believed to dwell, the dial transforms Arthurian symbolism into an intricate architectural landscape.

Building on the distinctive hexagonal language introduced in the first chapter, itself inspired by the basalt columns of the Giant’s Causeway, this latest composition recreates a dense forest through layered geometry and deep green tones.

Composed of 57 individually crafted blocks, the dial combines green CVD-coated elements, polished pink gold, transparent glass and shimmering Crystalium to create depth, texture and shifting reflections.

Each block is positioned at a different height, forming a striking three-dimensional composition.

Rather than literally depicting a forest, Roger Dubuis recreates its atmosphere through architecture, materials and light.

Every element contributes to a composition that reveals new perspectives at every glance, inviting the wearer to continuously discover new details.

SCULPTING THE LEGEND

For the first time in the collection, the legend extends beyond the dial as the pink gold case itself becomes a canvas.

Entirely hand engraved, it depicts Merlin in both human and animal form: as the mythical white stag, symbol of metamorphosis, and as the wise figure holding a book, a subtle reference to the knowledge and omniscience explored in the first chapter of the trilogy.

These finely executed micro-relief scenes wrap around the case middle, expanding the narrative into every aspect of the watch while showcasing another expression of the Maison’s métiers d’art.

Framing the dial, the twelve emblematic Knights of the Round Table take their positions.

Standing just six millimetres tall, each pink gold knight requires around three days of meticulous hand-finishing by a specialist engraver.

From sculpting and engraving to the application of black patina, every detail is carefully refined to reveal greater depth, texture and contrast while giving each knight its own distinctive posture and personality.

Flanking the crown, sword-inspired guards reference Excalibur itself, while the crown’s green colour evokes the surrounding forest, home to the mythical white stag.

ENGINEERED FOR EXPRESSION

Developed, manufactured and hand-finished entirely in-house, the automatic Calibre RD821 has been specifically engineered to accommodate the three-dimensional architecture of the dial while preserving the balanced proportions of the Maison’s signature Excalibur case.

Comprising 172 components, the calibre is hand-finished according to the demanding criteria of the prestigious Poinçon de Genève certification, requiring fourteen distinct decorative techniques that reflect Roger Dubuis’ unwavering commitment to Genevan watchmaking excellence.

The 45 mm pink gold case is completed by a sapphire crystal that reveals the dial’s sculptural landscape from multiple perspectives.

On the reverse, the skeletonised 360° oscillating weight, inspired by the stained-glass windows of medieval castles, continues the dialogue between mythology and mechanical artistry.

Produced in a limited edition of just 28 pieces, Excalibur The Metamorph Merlin concludes the Merlin trilogy while reaffirming Roger Dubuis’ singular vision of expressive Haute Horlogerie, where legendary stories are brought to life through mechanical expressivity, distinguished craftsmanship and daring design.

TIMEPIECE CARD

CALIBRE

RD821 caliber. Automatic.

The Manufacture skillfully crafts 14 distinct finishes in-house on this RD821, including those tailored for the Poinçon de Genève certification.

These finishes are meticulously applied to every surface of every single component of every caliber, creating a captivating interplay of matte and polished surfaces.

This meticulous process enhances the play of light, that has become the hallmark of Geneva fine watchmaking.

Components: 172

Power reserve: 48h

Jewels: 33

4 Hz / 28’800 Vibrations per Hour

Diameter: 11’ ½ lines

Thickness: 3.5 Millimeters

CASE

Pink gold 750/1000 with sapphire crystal ring under the bezel.

Open case back.

Glass ring inside the crown, the sides are hand engraved and finished by hands.

Size: 45 mm