The Material Difference
Innovation is constantly being expressed through the reinterpretation of complications as well as carefully chosen materials. From cobalt and titanium, through to composite inventions, each of these materials benefits the expressive aesthetics of a timepiece and its overall performance.
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Cobalt Chrome
Rare
From Aerospace to Wrist
Originally developed for the automotive and aerospace industries, the Cobalt Chrome alloy is produced through an exclusive micro-melt process and is rarely seen in watchmaking. Scratch-resistant, corrosion-resistant, and consistently bright, the Maison has been incorporating Cobalt Chrome into its watchmaking since 2017, making it one of its signature materials. In particular, this alloy is used for cases and also for upper bridges and tourbillon cages, which not only creates a brilliant lustre, but also invaluable anti-magnetic properties. In nature, cobalt alone emits a blue colour. In tribute to that organic shade, the skeletonized architecture of Cobalt Chrome timepieces has been enveloped in a distinctive blue colour, including the astral signature.
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Titanium
More Strength. Less Weight.
Pursuit of Lightweight Excellence
Almost twice lighter than stainless steel, titanium offers an important strength-to weight ratio, with a lightness and comfort that is instantly noticeable on the wrist. Durability is not lost, as it is highly resistant to corrosion and scratches, while also being antimagnetic and skin friendly. Grade 5 titanium is used for lower tourbillon cages, as well as timepieces with cases and bracelets in full titanium, such as the Excalibur Monotourbillon that weighs just 100g. Technical details always serve the aesthetics. That’s why titanium creations present a premium matte metallic sheen, with contrasting polished bevels on the bracelet, and a darker grey treatment used for the iconic star. Minimalist yet charismatic, titanium timepieces are a flawless example of ‘less being more’.
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Materials
Composite
Commitment to Comfort and Innovation
Perpetuating traditional savoir-faire while being profoundly innovative, the Maison is the only watchmaker to have created a Poinçon de Geneve certified calibre in carbon fiber. Other timepieces feature multilayer carbon and SMC (Sheet Molding Compound) carbon for lightness and comfort. It is also among the few watchmakers to use MCF (Mineral Composite Fiber) which is even 13% lighter than SMC carbon and 2.5 times lighter than ceramic. This lightness makes MCF timepieces extremely comfortable for everyday wear and enables the creation of intricate designs thanks to a sturdy structure.
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Ceramic
Durable
Enduring Beauty
Ceramic is a difficult material to master, yet it is chosen for its scratch-resistance and pleasing aesthetics. Transforming raw ceramic into the distinctive cases emblematic of the Maison is a challenging process, requiring the entire manufacturing method to be rethought. Indeed, ceramic is four times harder to harness than stainless steel, and its finishing takes 15 times longer than crafting the same case in gold. Although challenging to master, it is 28% lighter than cobalt and offers excellent corrosion-resistance, making it a reliable option across many different watch components. Resistant to daily scratches and with a high brilliance that doesn’t fade over time, ceramic timepieces combine durability with expressivity.
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Mother-of-Pearl
Sophisticated
A statement of refinement
The Maison was one of the first watchmakers to use pink gold and mother-of-pearl in gentlemen’s watches – reflecting a sophisticated and audacious spirit. Mr. Roger Dubuis first used mother-of-pearl to bring expression, emotion and surprise into its timepieces. In particular, the iridescence of the mother-of-pearl delivers a theatrical and eye-catching look. Ever since then, the natural material has continued to make an impact. The watchmakers use Pinctada maxima, “the treasure of the south seas”, which is known as the best quality mother-of-pearl available.
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Gold
Elevated gold
The Essence of Time
From pink to white gold, the presence of this material in timepieces reflects a commitment to preciousness, high quality and timeless beauty. Renowned for its resistance to corrosion, malleability, and natural brilliance, gold embodies both practical function and artistic expression in every creation. Ethically sourced from a single origin, Varinor, our fully recycled gold adheres to the highest standards of purity and quality, reflecting a dedication to responsible practices. The signature 5N pink gold, with its warmth and radiance, elevates each timepiece with refinement while its inherent workability allows to showcase the brilliance of each gemstone. By prioritizing responsibly sourced and meticulously crafted gold, the Maison reinforces its unwavering quest for excellence in fine watchmaking.
Explore the Range
Discover timepieces in a wide variety of materials and find the style that most catches your eye.