Introducing: Roger Dubuis Marks 30 Years With The Hommage La Placide

What We Know

The Hommage collection has long represented Roger Dubuis’ most personal, and often classically minded, designs. First introduced in 1996, it was conceived as a tribute to the watchmakers, teachers, and friends who influenced his career. The new Hommage La Placide continues on that path. “La Placide” was Mr. Dubuis’ childhood nickname, a reflection (and literal translation) of his calm and gentle spirit, and now serves as the namesake for a watch celebrating both the man himself and the thirtieth anniversary of the brand he founded.

The 38mm watch is crafted in an 18K pink gold case. Its dial, built in five layers, features a lacquered main plate in a tone coined as ‘Leman Blue’—a reference to Lake Geneva, which Dubuis saw daily during his student years traveling between Geneva and Vevey. Mother-of-pearl segments form the calendar displays, while a moonphase sits over a base of blue aventurine with curved 18k yellow-gold moons. The biretrograde layout, with hands that sweep outward and snap back to zero, mirrors the structure of the 1995 original.

Inside the watch is the new RD1472 calibre, created by combining the RD14 automatic base movement from 2004 with the RD72 perpetual calendar module from 1999. Each was rebuilt using both original and remanufactured components, with the resulting calibre comprising 291 parts and finished using 15 different decoration techniques. The movement features the Genève seal and utilizes an 18K pink gold rotor for automatic winding. 

The watch comes on a blue, interchangeable leather strap with a matching Roger Dubuis buckle and is produced in a limited series of 28 pieces, priced at €115,000. 

What We Think

This watch embodies the core of Roger Dubuis, featuring expressive watchmaking that remains true to the brand’s roots. The Hommage La Placide takes a technically complex display and renders it with balance and warmth. While the dial may seem busy at first glance, I find that a closer examination reveals that the design and complications work together to create a cohesive and, frankly, beautiful dial. 

It’s a thoughtful execution that provides visual depth as much as it provides a taste of RD’s watchmaking ability. Paying tribute, dare I say homage, in multiple ways. At 38mm, it’s an instance of restraint from a brand often associated with large, architectural cases. It’s a fitting tribute to Roger Dubuis himself—thoughtful, intricate, and quietly confident. 

The Basics

Brand: Roger Dubuis
Model: Hommage La Placid

Diameter: 38 mm
Thickness: Not specified  
Case Material: 18K pink gold
Dial Color: “Leman Blue” lacquered main plate with layered mother-of-pearl segments and blue aventurine moonphase
Indexes: Applied hour markers
Strap/Bracelet: Blue interchangeable leather strap with Roger Dubuis emblem buckle

The Movement

Caliber: RD1472 (combines RD14 automatic base with RD72 perpetual calendar module)
Functions: Hours, minutes, biretrograde perpetual calendar (day, date, month, leap year, and moonphase)
Winding: Automatic, 18K pink gold rotor
Additional Details: Poinçon de Genève certification

Pricing & Availability

Price: EUR 115,000
Availability: Now
Limited Edition: Yes, 28 pieces.

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