Early Roger Dubuis watches are an absolute masterclass in design and a distinct design language, best showcased in the early Sympathie models, particularly the complicated offerings, showcasing the infamous watchmaker’s whimsical takes on displaying traditional complications.

Presented in pink gold with a very early movement number, this Sympathie “Bi-Retrographe” is exceptionally clean throughout with an abundance of intricate details at every angle.

Reference: Sympathie Bi-Retrograde Date Chronograph S37 5635 “Bi-Retrographe”

Case: The 37 x 49 x 13 mm pink gold case is in excellent condition throughout with perfectly defined facets and angles and deep, crisp hallmarks. It appears it would be safe to call this case “unpolished”. Minor surface oxidation or patina is present around the date corrector openings, as is common with this reference.

Dial: I love these rich glossy lacquer dials that exhibit such richness and depth, they’re frequently listed as being enamel, because they could certainly pass for it. I adore the unique handset shapes, fonts, and additions of color throughout, such as the pops of red in the minutes / seconds track and the richly saturated blued hands. The sub registers are slightly sunken providing depth to further highlight the raised nature of the dial text and signature. The dial is free of any defects.

Movement: The Roger Dubuis caliber 5635 is a highly modified Lemania 2310 base, beautifully finished, complete with black polished swan’s neck regulator, numbered movement, and Geneva Seal. The watch is winding, setting, and running well, with all calendar and chronograph functions working properly.

Bracelet: The watch is presented on its original signed alligator strap measuring 115 x 75 and paired to an aftermarket plated buckle.

Includes: Outer box and inner wooden presentation box.