Manufacturer: De Bethune
Year: Circa 2018
Reference No: DB28RS8C6ZS
Movement No: 2115.494
Case No: No. 13
Model Name: DB28-RS8
Material: 18K pink gold and Zirconium
Calibre: Manual, cal. DB2115, 29 jewels
Bracelet/Strap: Blue rubber De Bethune strap
Clasp/Buckle: Zirconium De Bethune buckle
Dimensions: 42.5mm Diameter
Signed: Case, dial, movement and buckle signed
Accessories: Accompanied by De Bethune Certificate of Origin and Warranty, De Bethune DB28 brochure, travel case and outer box
Catalogue Essay
De Bethune is a highly respected, independent Swiss brand manufacturing 21st century watches rooted in traditional watchmaking extending back to the 18th century. The philosophy underpinning their efforts is “not doing more, but instead doing better.” Founded in 2002 by David Zanetta and Denis Flageollet, the pair shared the same passion and vision for the watchmaking of tomorrow. David Zanetta, a passionate collector of fine art and timepieces, joined forces with Denis Flageollet, a fourth-generation watchmaker, to create the most technically advanced timepieces without compromises. Since the launch of De Bethune, the independent manufacturer has impressively developed over 30 in-house movements.

The DB28 was presented to the public in 2011 and was awarded the highest distinction award, the “Aiguille d’Or”, at the GPHG 2011 for its very first iteration in titanium. Achieving such a feat, the DB28 is perhaps a perfect example of the firm’s approach to watchmaking. The design is modern yet has a futuristic approach that could be considered more 22nd century, than 21st. There is no traditional dial, instead the movement’s ruthenium-plated top plate decorated with Geneva striping is visible, along with the balance wheel, innovative shock absorber, and portions of the mainspring barrels. Another De Bethune signature element is the 3D moonphase rotating at 6 o’clock, while a wind performance indicator is placed discreetly between 2 and 3 o’clock. A 6-day power reserve indicator is incorporated on the back. The movement features a cavalcade of elements that have been developed or patented by De Bethune making it truly unique and like no other, including a self-regulating twin barrel, a titanium balance wheel with white gold insets, a “De Bethune” hairspring with flat terminal curve, silicon escape wheel and a triple pare-chute shock absorbing system. This cutting-edge technology is nevertheless merged with the brand’s superlative hand finished components. The innovative case design, lugs made of zirconium and pink gold, features flexible lugs that elegantly conform to the wrist.

Fresh-to-the-market, this attractive pink gold and zirconium De Bethune is accompanied by its original accessories, and the DB28 is an appealing model representative of the futuristic design and innovations of the brand.