Roger Dubuis Excalibur Flyback Chronograph Review

As a daily-wear reviewer, I've tested countless chronographs, but few have made me pause like the Roger Dubuis Excalibur Flyback Chronograph (ref. RDDBEX1046). This is a watch that screams 'look at me' yet somehow manages to be a strap-on-and-forget-it companion. Let's break down what makes it tick—and how it feels.

Manufacture History

Roger Dubuis was founded in 1995 by the legendary watchmaker of the same name, who had previously worked at Patek Philippe. The brand quickly gained a reputation for bold, avant-garde designs and a commitment to in-house movements. The Excalibur line, introduced in the mid-2000s, became the brand's flagship, featuring skeletonized dials and the iconic star-shaped bridge. The Flyback Chronograph is a modern interpretation of that heritage, combining traditional chronograph mechanics with a contemporary aesthetic.

Movement

At the heart of the RDDBEX1046 is the calibre RD680, an automatic movement with a column-wheel chronograph and a vertical clutch. The flyback function allows the chronograph seconds hand to be instantly reset to zero while the chronograph is running, a feature prized by pilots and racing enthusiasts. The movement operates at 28,800 vph (4Hz) and offers a 52-hour power reserve. It's beautifully finished with Geneva stripes, perlage, and a skeletonized rotor that echoes the Excalibur design. The movement is in-house, a point of pride for Roger Dubuis, and it's visible through the sapphire caseback.

Specifications

Wrist Feel

The first thing you notice is the weight—it's substantial but not overwhelming. The 42mm case sits comfortably on a 6.5-inch wrist, thanks to the curved lugs that hug the wrist. The 48mm lug-to-lug is a key factor; it ensures the watch doesn't overhang, even on slimmer wrists. The leather strap is soft and flexible, and the folding clasp is secure without digging in. The skeletonized dial means the watch is not too thick visually, and the crown and pushers are easy to operate. I wore it for a full day and forgot it was there—a rare feat for a watch this size.

Accuracy

Over a week of mixed wear, the RDDBEX1046 averaged +4 seconds per day. That's excellent for a mechanical chronograph, and while it's not COSC-certified, it performs well within those standards. The flyback function resets instantly with no stutter, and the vertical clutch prevents any jumping of the seconds hand when starting the chronograph. The minute counter is accurate, and the power reserve of 52 hours is practical, though I'd prefer a bit more for a weekend off.

Occasions

This watch is versatile. It works with a suit for formal events, but it's also at home on a casual weekend. The skeletonized dial adds a touch of avant-garde style that can dress up or down. It's not a dive watch—50m water resistance means it's safe for splashes but not swimming—but it's fine for daily wear. I'd avoid taking it into the ocean, but for office and city life, it's perfect.

Wrist Presence

4/5. The Excalibur Flyback Chronograph is a statement piece. The open-worked dial, the star-shaped bridge, and the bold bezel all draw attention. It's not subtle, but it's not obnoxious either. It says 'I appreciate fine horology' without shouting. On a leather strap, it feels refined; on a metal bracelet, it would be more sporty.

Reference Variants

The RDDBEX1046 is the stainless steel version with a black skeletonized dial and leather strap. There's also a reference with a silver dial (RDDBEX1047) and a version on a stainless steel bracelet (RDDBEX1048). The movement is identical across the range, so the choice is purely aesthetic.

Family References

Within the Excalibur line, you'll find the automatic skeleton (RDDBEX1045), the double tourbillon (RDDBEX1050), and the quatuor (RDDBEX1051). These share the same case architecture but offer different complications.

Similar Watches

If you're considering the RDDBEX1046, you might also look at the Zenith El Primero Flyback, which offers a similar flyback chronograph with a high-frequency movement at a lower price. The Rolex Daytona is a benchmark, but it's harder to get and has a different vibe. The Breitling Navitimer B01 is another flyback option with a more tool-like feel.

Homages

For those on a budget, the Seiko SSC813 is a solar-powered chronograph with a flyback-style function that mimics the Excalibur's busy dial. The Citizen Eco-Drive Chronograph offers similar aesthetics at a very affordable price, though they lack the mechanical complexity.

Investment Value

With an MSRP of $25,000, the RDDBEX1046 is a significant investment. Pre-owned prices range from $18,000 to $22,000, indicating a slight depreciation. The trend is stable—Roger Dubuis watches don't skyrocket in value, but they hold reasonably well due to limited production. This is a watch to buy for the love of wearing, not for flipping. If you can find one at a good pre-owned price, it's a smart entry into high-end horology.

Service and Maintenance

Roger Dubuis recommends a service every 5 years, costing around $800. The service must be performed by an authorized center, as the movement is complex and parts are proprietary. Plan for shipping to Geneva, which can take a few weeks.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Cons

Final Verdict

The Roger Dubuis Excalibur Flyback Chronograph (ref. RDDBEX1046) is a remarkable blend of bold design and everyday practicality. It's not a tool watch, but it's not a fragile dress piece either—it thrives in the middle ground. If you're looking for a flyback chronograph that makes a statement without sacrificing comfort, this is a worthy contender. As a daily wearer, it exceeded my expectations in comfort and legibility, and the movement is a joy to interact with. It's a watch you'll want to keep for years.