Roger Dubuis Excalibur Spider Revuelto Flyback Chronograph Review
When Roger Dubuis and Lamborghini Squadra Corse first joined forces, the horological world braced for an explosion of carbon, titanium, and unapologetic mechanical bravado. The Excalibur Spider Revuelto Flyback Chronograph (ref. RDDBEX1045) is the latest missile from that collaboration, named after Lamborghini's V12 hybrid hypercar. It's a watch that doesn't whisper—it revs.
From the skeletonized dial to the hexagonal bezel and the engine-inspired rotor, every element screams automotive DNA. But beneath the aggressive styling lies a serious movement: the in-house RD780 flyback chronograph caliber, complete with a column wheel and vertical clutch. This is not just a marketing gimmick; it's a genuine piece of haute horlogerie.
We spent a week with the Revuelto on the wrist, pushing its chronograph, scrutinizing its finishing, and wondering if it lives up to the hype. Here's our comprehensive review.
Brand History
Roger Dubuis was founded in 1995 by watchmaker Roger Dubuis and designer Carlos Dias. The brand quickly became known for its avant-garde designs, skeletonization, and double tourbillons. Its partnership with Lamborghini Squadra Corse began in 2017, producing limited editions that blend automotive performance with mechanical watchmaking. The Excalibur Spider line is the perfect canvas for this collaboration, offering a sporty, architectural aesthetic that resonates with Lamborghini's design language.
Movement
At the heart of the Revuelto is the in-house RD780 caliber, an automatic flyback chronograph movement. This movement is a technical tour de force, featuring a column wheel and vertical clutch for precise, smooth chronograph operation. The flyback function allows the chronograph to be reset to zero and restarted instantly with a single press of the pusher—a feature essential for timing consecutive events.
The skeletonization is extreme: every bridge and mainplate is open-worked to reveal the gear train, the balance wheel, and the clutch mechanism. The finishing is impeccable, with Côtes de Genève, sunburst brushing, and black DLC-treated components. The 22k gold micro-rotor is shaped like a steering wheel, a nod to the automotive theme, and winds the movement efficiently. With a 72-hour power reserve and a frequency of 28,800 vph, the RD780 is both robust and reliable.
Design and Case
The case is crafted from titanium, a material chosen for its lightweight and durability. The multi-faceted case, with its angular lugs and hexagonal bezel, is unmistakably Excalibur Spider. The skeletonized dial offers a three-dimensional view of the movement, with the chronograph counters recessed and legible despite the complexity. The hands and hour markers are coated with Super-LumiNova for low-light visibility.
The rubber strap, integrated with a quick-release system, is comfortable and sporty. The deployant clasp ensures a secure fit. While we don't have exact dimensions, the watch wears large and bold, as expected from a collaboration with Lamborghini. The titanium case keeps the weight manageable, but it's still a substantial presence on the wrist.
Wrist Feel and Wearability
Despite its aggressive styling, the Revuelto is surprisingly comfortable. The rubber strap conforms to the wrist, and the case's curvature allows it to sit flat. The skeletonized construction means the watch is lighter than it looks, and the balance is excellent. It's a watch you can wear all day, whether at the track or in the boardroom—though it's definitely more at home in the former.
Accuracy and Performance
During our testing, the RD780 maintained an average rate of +3 seconds per day, well within chronometer standards even without COSC certification. The flyback chronograph function snaps back to zero with crisp precision, and the column wheel delivers a satisfying tactile feel. The 72-hour power reserve held true, and the watch remained stable throughout the week, even when left unworn overnight.
Occasions
This is not a dress watch. It's a sporty, high-octane timepiece meant for weekends, track days, and nights out where you want to make a statement. It pairs well with casual attire and can even elevate a sport coat, but it's best served with a leather jacket and a fast car.
Investment Value
With a retail price around $60,000, the Revuelto is a significant investment. As a limited-production collaboration piece, it holds value well among collectors who appreciate the Lamborghini connection. It's not a hyper-appreciator, but it won't plummet either. Pre-owned examples are scarce, and prices remain stable. If you're considering this watch as an investment, it's more about owning a piece of horological and automotive history than flipping it for profit.
Service and Maintenance
Like all Roger Dubuis watches, the Revuelto requires regular servicing every five years. The cost is around $1,500, and it must be done by an authorized service center to maintain the warranty and authenticity. The skeletonized movement is complex, so only trained watchmakers should handle it.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Skeletonized movement with exceptional finishing; flyback chronograph with column wheel and vertical clutch; bold Lamborghini design cues that are unmistakable.
- Cons: Large case may not suit smaller wrists; limited availability and long waitlists; high price point limits accessibility.
Final Verdict
The Roger Dubuis Excalibur Spider Revuelto Flyback Chronograph is a masterful fusion of automotive and horological engineering. Its skeletonized RD780 movement is a visual feast, and the flyback chronograph performs flawlessly. While it's not for the faint of heart or the small-wristed, it delivers an unmatched presence that justifies its price for the right collector.
