When master horologist Roger Dubuis passed away in December 2017, he left behind a legacy of meticulous watchmaking and avant-garde designs. He began his career in the 1950s with Longines, working as a watchmaker in their after sales department repairing the iconic 13ZN chronograph caliber, and then he moved to Patek Philippe as a master watchmaker in their complications department. Dubuis established his own atelier in 1980 and created his own brand when he released his first collection in 1995. His 2005 innovative Excalibur line included the world premiere of a skeletonized double tourbillon, as well as a minute repeating tourbillon wristwatch. This “independent” watchmaker helped establish new boundaries, which set it apart from traditional Swiss watch brands, and set a new course for 21st century horology. Amongst all of his creations, the Sympathie models are widely regarded as his most charismatic and important.

Produced while Roger Dubuis was still leading the company, the present Sympathie is a wonderful and early example with its flowing case and angular sapphire crystal surrounding a cream colour dial with rare Breguet numerals and center seconds. The watch is in excellent condition featuring Dubuis’ automatic caliber 57, which has been stamped with the Geneva seal, an exceptional feat at the time for a small independent watchmaker.

Long before the height of “independent” watchmaker, Roger Dubuis was pushing the limits of horology, and helping to redefine the industry.