Manufacturer: De Bethune Year: Circa 2002 Movement No: DB5001 Case No: 008/DB1R Model Name: DB1 Material: 18K pink gold Calibre: Manual, 22 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Leather Clasp/Buckle: 18K pink gold De Bethune pin buckle Dimensions: 42mm Diameter Signed: Case, dial and buckle signed Accessories: Accompanied by unstamped and undated De Bethune Certificate of Authenticity, instruction manual, fitted presentation box and outer packaging.
Catalogue Essay
The DB1, De Bethune's very first offering, is a traditionally elegant and extremely well balanced timepiece. Known today for their distinctive futuristic case designs, the unfamiliarity with such avant-garde architecture is what set the company in a different league of its when it was first launched. Released in 2002, the DB1 was made available in 28 pieces in white gold, 21 pieces in pink gold, like the present example, and one unique example in yellow gold. Rather classical and restrained, the DB1 features ogival, or bullet-shaped lugs that collectors worldwide have now been accustomed too and appreciate. Featuring an incredibly attractive and slim case, large flat bezel and beautiful silver dial with guilloché centre, the timepiece is exudes elegance and sophistication.
With now more than 20 years of groundbreaking innovations, De Bethune has developed over 35 in-house movements rightfully placing them at the spear front of technical and mechanical transformations. Without a doubt, De Bethune is one of the brands that today best symbolises 21st century watchmaking.
The movement was originally created by Flageollet for Jaquet (now Lajoux Perret) a company creating high end mechanical movements for third parties. It is stamped C.D.B, standing for Chevalier de Bethune, an 18th Century French aristocrat and horologist known for his innovative escapement system and whose name inspired the founders of De Bethune.
Preserved in excellent overall condition the present DB1 number 008 in pink gold is further accompanied by its original undated and unstamped Guarantee and presentation box.