It is understood that for each variant in the series, there were no more than 28 made. Each was chronometer-graded, with a certificate from the Besançon Observatory. One of the earlier pieces created by the legendary watchmaker, after establishing his own brand in 1995, examples such as this H40 are becoming increasingly collectible.
The design is that of a two-register chronograph, with an ultramarine blue lacquer dial and gilt tachymetric scale. The dial features a perlage pattern on its base layer, with gilt printing and subsidiary dials forming an excellent contrast against the deep blue dial. Based on the angle and intensity of the light, it displays a range of different shades of blue; the anti-reflective coating on the sapphire glass further emphasising these details. The feuilles hands are rose-gold, matching the applied Arabic numerals.
The case is very distinct with its polished, stepped concave bezel and polished lugs. The three-piece construction gives the watch a bold presence on the wrist, measuring 40mm in diameter. Over time, the right side of the case has developed a rich patina, through oxidisation.
Powered by the Cal. RD 56 (based on the Lemania 2310 - much like the Patek Philippe 5070), the watch bears the Seal of Geneva and was regulated by Roger Dubuis himself. The complexity of the movement is revealed through an engraved sapphire case-back, featuring a 21 jewel, straight-line lever escapement, a monometallic balance adjusted to 5 positions, a self-compensating Breguet spring and swan-neck micrometer regulator.
Viewings can be arranged in Central London by appointment.
Closer look
| Brand: | Roger Dubuis |
| Model: | Hommage Chronograph Ref. H40 560 |
| Movement: | mechanical manual-winding Cal. RD56 |
| Functions: | chronograph, hours, minutes, sub-seconds |
| Features: | display back, perlage-patterned blue dial |
| Case: | 40 mm 18-carat rose-gold |
| Crystal: | sapphire front and back |
| Strap: | light tan nubuck strap, original Roger Dubuis rose gold tang buckle |
| Year: | circa 2000 |
| Box & papers: | original box |
This early Roger Dubuis is guaranteed for authenticity and comes with a two-year warranty from A Collected Man. The case is unpolished and has light superficial marks throughout (consistent with occasional wear) and a heavy presence of oxidation on the right side. The reverse of the lugs have some light scratches (from previous strap changes) and the original sapphire glass has light scratches throughout, which are barely visible in natural light owing to the anti-reflecting coating on the glass.
