Reuge is an iconic Swiss company specializing in the production of high-end music boxes. Founded in 1865 in Sainte-Croix, in the canton of Vaud, it is now world-renowned for the quality and beauty of its creations. The Maison has remained true to its Swiss roots by using local materials to make its music boxes. Reuge’s artisans have in-depth knowledge of metal, wood, and art mechanics, enabling them to create music boxes distinguished by excellent precision, incomparable sound, and undeniable beauty.
Reuge music boxes have become highly prized collector's items for music lovers and art connoisseurs. They are available in a variety of styles, sizes, and designs, ranging from classic to modern. Some music boxes are even customizable, with the possibility of choosing the melody, color, and finishes. The quality of Reuge music boxes is such that the firm has been chosen to provide state gifts on several occasions. For example, in 1997 the Maison created a special music box to celebrate the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana; and in 2013 it was commissioned to create a commemorative music box for the coronation of King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands.
For Dubai Watch Week 2023. Reuge wanted to create an ode to the unique and magical nature of the Middle East. Specially developed for this event, Reuge is offering a new version of the Escalado Mécanique, in the same way as the Milarius and Racing Legend.
This game, which historically used racehorses, has adapted its codes to honor the mythical, ancestral, and cultural sport of camel racing. In the Middle East, camel racing is a heritage associated with breeding and Bedouin communities. Since 2020, the racing sport has been part of UNESCO's intangible cultural heritage.
Reuge wanted to bring this legendary race back to the desert. The elements are released, filling the scene with vigorous energy. Between the waves of wind that test the palm trees and lift the sand, creating dunes at various points in the race. Like the dromedaries, this enchanting landscape is destined to evolve over time, its patinated bronze treatment chosen to match the unique, ever-changing landscape well known in the desert.
Although this notion is antinomic with that of so-called "classical" mechanics, Reuge had developed this process for its Miliarius carriage race project in 2020 during the celebration of its 155th anniversary. The haphazard mechanical drive that puts the racers into action specifically uses a specific chain system to remind us of the wild rhythm of a horse's gallop.
In this new piece of art, the dromedary takes center stage. The dromedary is predestined for speed, taking its name from the Greek verb “dramein” meaning "to run". This animal can reach speeds of up to 65 km/h and maintain a steady 40 km/h for over an hour.
Reuge offers a unique experience for the eyes and ears with this mechanical automaton, which has a 41-minute power reserve that allows you to bet on numerous races without having to wind the mechanism in between races. In line with the new values promoted by Reuge since its acquisition by independent watchmaker De Bethune last February, this timepiece is all about fun, lightness, play, and sharing.
With this latest piece of mechanical art, you can enjoy an entirely power-driven haphazard race experience, where the winner is greeted by the sublime harmony of 144 mechanical notes, and where the runners can be randomly placed according to the wishes of the audiences. The rising flag of your choice brings the game to an end.
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