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Lot Essay
In recent years, independent watchmaking has taken the world of horology by surprise. Historically, the audience for buyers was quite small and niche due to unusual stylization along with a lack of a major 'brand name'. However, in the past few years, there has been an incredible amount of success for these independent manufacturers such as De Bethune due to their uniqueness, small quantity in production, and top quality in terms of finishing and watchmaking.
The DB28 may be one of De Bethune’s most iconic and recognizable models, thanks to its sporty, futuristic design and architecture resembling something out of a sci-fi movie. And the present lot, DB28 'Steel Wheels' may be in fact of the best iterations of the line combining two collector-favored models from the past: the original DB28 'Steel Wheels' from 2018 with an open-work design, and the DB28XP for its 'extra-plat' or ultra-thin construction. Although large on paper at 43 mm., the watch is very lightweight and comfortable thanks to an almost near manufacturing from titanium which includes the case, movement, hands, and buckle. Further, the very expensive and incredibly difficult to create grade 5 titanium case and buckle are highly scratch resistant and durable, making the sports watch easy to wear on any occasion. Reference DB28 'Steel Wheels' also features De Bethune’s signature mobile lugs that allow the watch to flex and mold to one’s wrist.
As an independent watchmaker, De Bethune timepieces are full of proprietary components and patents, thanks to master watchmakers and co-owner Denis Flageollet. The present reference incorporates these designs such as the triangular central bridge that holds the two, skeletonized 'steel' winding wheels which engage the twin-barrels allowing for an impressive 6-day power reserve. These components are visible due to the openwork design which allows the brand to exhibit its top-quality finishing. The hands and hour markers are blued titanium which can only be fully appreciated when handling in person due to the lustrous, saturated color of titanium that exceeds steel. The hour markers are also spherical balls which can be enjoyed from any angle and add depth to the watch. At the bottom, one is captivated by the patented, oversized, titanium balance bridge specifically designed for precision timekeeping. The triple pare-chute shock-absorbing system holds a titanium balance with white gold inserts for adjustment. On the rear, the movement is concise with a power reserve indicator. Numbered 12 out of 25 examples along with being a “full set” watch from the original owner, the present lot is a wonderful opportunity to own a highly attractive and desirable timepiece from one of the admired, independent watchmakers.
The DB28 may be one of De Bethune’s most iconic and recognizable models, thanks to its sporty, futuristic design and architecture resembling something out of a sci-fi movie. And the present lot, DB28 'Steel Wheels' may be in fact of the best iterations of the line combining two collector-favored models from the past: the original DB28 'Steel Wheels' from 2018 with an open-work design, and the DB28XP for its 'extra-plat' or ultra-thin construction. Although large on paper at 43 mm., the watch is very lightweight and comfortable thanks to an almost near manufacturing from titanium which includes the case, movement, hands, and buckle. Further, the very expensive and incredibly difficult to create grade 5 titanium case and buckle are highly scratch resistant and durable, making the sports watch easy to wear on any occasion. Reference DB28 'Steel Wheels' also features De Bethune’s signature mobile lugs that allow the watch to flex and mold to one’s wrist.
As an independent watchmaker, De Bethune timepieces are full of proprietary components and patents, thanks to master watchmakers and co-owner Denis Flageollet. The present reference incorporates these designs such as the triangular central bridge that holds the two, skeletonized 'steel' winding wheels which engage the twin-barrels allowing for an impressive 6-day power reserve. These components are visible due to the openwork design which allows the brand to exhibit its top-quality finishing. The hands and hour markers are blued titanium which can only be fully appreciated when handling in person due to the lustrous, saturated color of titanium that exceeds steel. The hour markers are also spherical balls which can be enjoyed from any angle and add depth to the watch. At the bottom, one is captivated by the patented, oversized, titanium balance bridge specifically designed for precision timekeeping. The triple pare-chute shock-absorbing system holds a titanium balance with white gold inserts for adjustment. On the rear, the movement is concise with a power reserve indicator. Numbered 12 out of 25 examples along with being a “full set” watch from the original owner, the present lot is a wonderful opportunity to own a highly attractive and desirable timepiece from one of the admired, independent watchmakers.