Daniel Roth Watch Collection Overview

singingbee · 2021-05-30T03:36:06Z

Discover the Daniel Roth Papillon, a rare jumping hour complication in a distinctive double-ellipse case. Read singingbee's journey to acquire this iconic timepiece and insights from collectors on its historical significance and unique design.

singingbee

WPS member · Independents forum

32 replies6336 views3 photos

In this insightful article, singingbee shares the journey of acquiring a highly coveted Daniel Roth Papillon, a timepiece that captivated them years before it joined their collection. This piece explores the unique design and historical significance of the Papillon, a model released just prior to Daniel Roth's departure from his eponymous brand. singingbee's personal narrative highlights the enduring appeal of this distinctive jumping hour complication, offering a valuable perspective for both new and seasoned collectors.

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The Daniel Roth Papillon was first unveiled in 1999 to celebrate the brand’s tenth anniversary. The watch takes its name from the French word for butterfly.

Featuring a jumping hour complication inside DR’s distinctive double-ellipse case. This is one of the more interesting case I have seen, it is neither round nor rectangular and is complemented nicely by a stepped bezel with sharp, straight lugs. Somehow the two different shapes feels quite balanced together in the form of this case. I also really like that there are two different guilloche patterns on the dial side, one on the main dial and the other on the sub second dial.

The Papillon was one of the last watches introduced before Daniel Roth’s departure from the brand in 2001. It was released as a limited edition of 250 pieces, 110 in rose gold, 110 in white gold and 30 in platinum.

I am especially elated to be able to add this particular watch which is the WG model as I first encountered it around 4 years ago. Back then I was still very new to the hobby and I didn’t know the brand, Daniel Roth at all. But I do remember being mesmerised by its look and it has remained in my mind since then. Looks like good things do come to those who wait. This is my first Daniel Roth and hopefully not the last.😉

Key Points from the Discussion

The Daniel Roth Papillon is considered among the top tier of the brand's oeuvre, particularly those created during Daniel Roth's direct involvement, which set the highest bar for the brand's output.
The retro-grade minute hand on the Papillon is a captivating feature, adding to the watch's unique appeal and making it a pleasure to observe.
Despite its significance, comprehensive resources and information about Daniel Roth's early work, including the Papillon, are scarce online, making historical research challenging for collectors.
The Papillon is widely regarded as a masterpiece and one of Daniel Roth's finest creations, especially among the early models from the brand.
The Papillon's striking aesthetics and unique double-ellipse case, which is neither round nor rectangular, give it significant style and presence, distinguishing it even as a time-only watch.
Many collectors recall reading extensively about the Daniel Roth Papillon in watch magazines upon its initial release, underscoring its immediate recognition as a significant timepiece.

The Discussion

mdg

May 30, 2021

...along with the RD Sympathie and a few others. Death to boring cases!

W72

May 30, 2021

Yes, I recall this watch from DR back then. Certainly not your ordinary watch dial and I love jumping hours. The retro minute hand must be a pleasure to watch each time it returns to start again. Great wristshot, the unique case fits your wrist perfectly 👍🏻. /W72

Time to watch

May 30, 2021

It’s a strikingly beautiful watch. For a time only watch It certainly has style and presence.

singingbee

May 30, 2021

It is definitely a wonderful catch for me. Loves the dial and have always want to have a jumping hour watch. So it’s a wish come true for me.

singingbee

May 30, 2021

Definitely agree this is one of Daniel Roth’s best creation. Feel very lucky to be able to acquire this.

Watchonthewrist

May 30, 2021

A absolute masterpiece imho. Def one of my fav from the brand . Huge Congrats again and i know this won’t be your last DR 😉. The early ones are so beautiful

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