The Ink of Time: Dr. Woo’s Celestial Canvas for Roger Dubuis

When Roger Dubuis and world-renowned tattoo artist Dr. Woo first joined forces in 2021, their goal was clear: to disrupt traditional watchmaking with a new form of artistic expression. That partnership, grounded in a shared appreciation for individuality, symbolism, and craftsmanship, now returns for its third and most galactic chapter yet — the Excalibur Monotourbillon Dr. Woo Episode III.

This latest creation takes inspiration from the cosmos, quite literally venturing 31 million light years away to the Whirlpool Galaxy (Messier 51a) — a spiraling formation famously captured by the James Webb Space Telescope in 2023. The result is a timepiece that blends astronomical aesthetics with mechanical artistry. At its heart is the revered Roger Dubuis RD515 calibre, featuring a flying tourbillon positioned at 7 o’clock. But to bring Dr. Woo’s vision to life, the movement has been reimagined: while the lower cage remains in titanium, the upper bridge is reduced to three minimalist arms that support a spiral motif crafted from stainless steel and finished with the Maison’s signature mirror polish.

The storytelling begins at the surface. The Excalibur’s sapphire crystal carries Dr. Woo’s signature rocket, brought to life through 3D galvanic growth and pink gold metallization. Look closely and you’ll find a hidden message within its trail: “We Come in Peace.” At 10 o’clock, a laser-engraved spider filled with black ink nods to Dr. Woo’s iconic tattoo elements. Meanwhile, at 9 o’clock, three pink gold metallized nebulae glow on the underside of the glass, drawing the eye into what the creators call a “black hole.”

Between 10 and 11 o’clock, this black hole is marked by a spiral-shaped component in stainless steel, treated with pink gold and laser-engraved to achieve a hypnotic finish. Flip the watch over, and this element reappears—this time darkened with black ink and surrounded by a chequerboard spiral pattern that radiates outward on the caseback sapphire crystal using selective metallization. Around the caseback is another profound detail: a message intended for faraway lifeforms, reading, “Let’s work together to uncover the mysteries of the cosmos and unlock the secrets of the universe. To whoever finds this message, know that we are seekers of knowledge and explorers of the unknown.”

Artistic complexity doesn’t end there. The circular barrel cover at 1 o’clock features a matte-black base with pink gold planetary motifs, nebulae, and rings—a dynamic galaxy that rotates as the barrel unwinds, offering a new view throughout the day and with every turn of the crown. This sense of motion and evolution captures both the astronomical theme and the ever-changing nature of time itself.

Visually, the watch is striking. It is housed in a bold 42mm case constructed from a bi-colour combination of 18K pink gold and titanium, providing the perfect contrast between prestige and lightness. The bracelet, also featuring the brand’s Quick Release System, is engraved with Dr. Woo’s mysterious symbols around the bezel and mid-links—an invitation for wearers to interpret their own meaning. True to Roger Dubuis form, the RD515 calibre inside is certified by the Poinçon de Genève and hand-decorated using 16 different finishing techniques across its 193 components. With a 72-hour power reserve, this movement is as functional as it is artistic.

Dr. Woo’s design language — monochromatic, precise, and deeply symbolic — merges seamlessly with Roger Dubuis’ watchmaking audacity. From his signature spider and language of symbols to the now-iconic rocket, these motifs have remained consistent throughout the collaboration, evolving with each chapter. As Dr. Woo puts it, “I’m always inspired by discovery. In this new creation, we’re not only exploring the endless expanse of space, but also looking inward at our own artistic and watchmaking capabilities.”

Limited to just 28 pieces, the Excalibur Monotourbillon Dr. Woo Episode III is a culmination of craft, narrative, and innovation. It is not merely a timepiece, but an interstellar journey on the wrist—where cosmic wonder, mechanical complexity, and artistic freedom coexist in perfect harmony.