De Bethune - The Hong Kong Watch Auction: XVII Hong Kong Friday, November 24, 2023 | Phillips

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  • Manufacturer: De Bethune
    Year: Circa 2007
    Reference No: DB15RT
    Movement No: 170-2004
    Case No: No. 021
    Material: 18K pink gold
    Calibre: Manual, cal. DB2004, 27 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Crocodile
    Clasp/Buckle: 18K pink gold De Bethune pin buckle
    Dimensions: 43.4mm diameter
    Signed: Case, dial, movement and buckle signed
    Accessories: Accompanied by De Bethune certificate stamped The Hour Glass Singapore dated 13th April 2007, instruction manual, setting pin, fitted presentation box and outer packaging.

  • Catalogue Essay

    First introduced to the market in 2004, the De Bethune DB15 Perpetual Calendar debuted the brand’s spherical moon phase. Reimagined and broke the boundaries of the interpretation of a moon phase, the three dimensional marvel emerged from a sub-dial at 12 o’clock and rotates on its own axis. The layout of the stepped dial is clean and legible with a classic touch of Roman numerals.

    According to research, three metals were available for the model: white gold, platinum and pink gold like the present example. To our knowledge only 44 pieces of the DB15RT were made since 2004. Belonging to one of the early creations from De Bethune recongized by the cone-shaped lugs, the timepiece is sized at 43.4mm diameter. The perpetual calendar mechanism powered by the caliber DB2004 was also the first to be produced entirely at the manufacture and is equipped with the world-first function of rapid date adjustment by and intermediate position of the winding crown. The leap year indication is indicated by the aperture below the spherical moon phase amongst the starry sky.

    Turning the watch over, the movement immediately speaks De Bethune. A signature delta-shaped bridge decorated with Côtes de Genève and proudly stamped with the brand’s logomark. Featuring a titanium balance with platinum weights, the movement is also equipped with a 5 days power reserve, triple pare-chute shock absorbing system and balance-spring with flat terminal curve.

    Preserved in an attractive condition, the case has furthermore developed charming patina that can only be achieved through time. Numbered 21, this DB15RT in pink gold is also accompanied by its original certificate and accessories.

Property from the Original Owner

Σ845

Ref. DB15RT
A rare and innovative pink gold perpetual calendar wristwatch with 3D moon phases, leap year indication, cone-shaped lugs, certificate and presentation box

Circa 2007
43.4mm diameter
Case, dial, movement and buckle signed

Estimate
HK$240,000 - 480,000 
€29,100-58,100
$30,800-61,500

Sold for HK$355,600

Contact Specialist

Thomas Perazzi
Deputy Chairman, Watches, Head of Watches, Asia
+852 2318 2001
WatchesHK@phillips.com

The Hong Kong Watch Auction: XVII

Hong Kong Auction 24-25 November 2023