Reuge Camel Race – 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.
The mechanics of this Escalado are very specific, as its operation is entirely arbitrary!
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 the 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 automaton, which has a 41-minute power reserve and 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.
With such a racetrack, contestants can expect a lot of twists and surprises… Are you ready?
Ladies and gentlemen, it is time to place your bets!
