Roger Dubuis Sympathie

Before the wild skeletonized hypercars, Knights of the Round Table, and gravity-defying complications, there was a very different Roger Dubuis.

Founded in 1995 by the master watchmaker himself, Roger Dubuis quickly established a reputation for combining traditional Genevan watchmaking with a design language unlike anything else on the market. While today's Roger Dubuis embraces the avant-garde with unapologetic enthusiasm, the brand's early years produced some of the most distinctive dress watches of the modern era. Chief among them was the Sympathie—a collection that announced the arrival of a manufacture determined to do things its own way.

This Sympathie Ref. S27180 is a perfect example of that philosophy.

Crafted in 18K white gold, the 27mm case remains one of the most intriguing designs to emerge from the late 1990s and early 2000s. Neither round nor tonneau, neither traditional nor futuristic, the Sympathie's flowing multi-faceted architecture feels entirely its own. Satin-brushed surfaces meet polished bevels and stepped transitions, creating a case that reveals new details from every angle. It is a watch that rewards attention.

The dial is equally compelling. Set against a crisp blue backdrop, oversized 'Roman' numerals explode outward from the center with the sort of theatrical confidence that became an early Roger Dubuis signature. A central rail track provides graphic balance, while elegant 'spade' hands soften the watch's architectural edge. The overall effect is sophisticated, expressive, and unmistakably Dubuis.

Inside, the movement delivers the level of finishing collectors have come to expect from the brand's formative years—a period many enthusiasts consider the manufacture's most important.

Fitted to a pale blue alligator leather strap with a signed white gold pin buckle, the combination feels surprisingly fresh and contemporary, bringing a touch of color to an already distinctive design. Accompanied by its complete set, including inner and outer boxes, papers, cards, warranty, and pamphlets, this example offers the full Roger Dubuis experience.

This very pretty Sympathie wasn't designed to blend in. Nearly three decades later, it still doesn't. And with a name like “Sympathie,” how could you not fall in love? 

Founded in 1995 by master watchmaker Roger Dubuis and designer Carlos Dias, Roger Dubuis quickly established itself as one of the most distinctive voices in modern haute horlogerie. The Geneva-based manufacture became known for combining exceptional movement finishing, bold case designs, and a willingness to challenge traditional watchmaking conventions. Early collections such as the Sympathie, Hommage, and MuchMore earned a devoted following among collectors, while later creations pushed into increasingly technical and architectural territory. Today, Roger Dubuis remains one of the industry's most expressive brands, blending traditional craftsmanship with an unapologetically avant-garde spirit.

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Analog:Shift stands behind the authenticity of our products in perpetuity.

Condition

Since our pieces are vintage or pre-owned, please expect wear & patina from usage and age. Please read each item description and examine all product images.

Warranty

We back each Analog:Shift vintage timepiece with a two-year mechanical warranty from the date of purchase.

International Buyers

Please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

All of our watches include complementary insured shipping within the 50 states.

Most of our products are on hand and will ship directly from our headquarters in New York City. In some cases, watches will be shipped directly from one of our authorized partners.

We generally ship our products via FedEx, fully insured, within 5 business days of purchase. An adult signature is required for receipt of all packages for insurance purposes. Expedited shipping is available at an additional cost. We are also happy to hand deliver your purchase in Manhattan or you may pick it up at our showroom.

Returns must be sent overnight or by priority international delivery, fully insured and paid for by the customer. A restocking fee may apply. Watches must be returned in the same condition as initially shipped.

We welcome international buyers, please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.