Independents
Fenndalton shares his journey with the De Bethune DB25, highlighting the brand's unique approach to customization. His decision to refresh his timepiece with a new dial, rather than selling it, offers a fascinating look into the possibilities of personalizing high-horology watches and the distinctive character of independent watchmaking.
let's push the De Bethune's door
We are a few on fora to like, even love, this De Bethune manufacture and after a try a few years ago at « belles montres », i was under the charm of this simple DB 25 time only collection line.
Mark in Paris described so well de bethune innovations in his detailed review, but unlike him, i went for the titanium blue dial. I found at that time this combination more coherent.
This blue dial is quite sensitive to light and go from ardoise gray to dark blue or even bleu roy). You aslo find the famous De Bethune DNA code such as the 5 min spheres (3D moonphase) and ogives at the end of the horns.
Superbly
finished, very confortable on the wrist, i grew tired of the dial which could
be compared to a Mini steering wheel J
credit : FGB
Ok , so i had two options : 1/ sell the watch or 2/ give it a second try by changing the dial, and therefore have a new watch. I went for the 2nd option – full service and new dial. Ok, but which one ?
The classic white dial:
Credit : Mark in Paris (i think)
The new black dial, here on a titane hawk
Or the
handmade guilloche slate gray (db25qp).
And the winner is......
The white
dial : so common 
the black dial. Once seen irl, i found the black too harsh and was afraid to get tired of it.
So, the grey dial/white gold case was the combo. Unfortunatly this grey dial is reserved to DB25 with complication.
I therefore asked De Bethune for a specific dial and De Bethune went for it. My watch is therefore unique. Yeeaaaah
Now you are
maybe eager to have a look at the result.
Thanks to
MattS skill, here is a true beauty :
a little bit closer
case back and the stunning db2024 caliber
And finally a wristshot
I would like to give a big BIG thank to the De Bethune manufacture for listening and taking into account my wishes and fulfilled them. The result is beyond my dreams. Thanks to MattS for his trust and his spectacular pictures. And finally old :
new :
De Bethune DB25 Reference DB25
The DB25 represents De Bethune's entry in the 44.5mm manual-wind category, distinguished by its silver dial configuration within the DB25 series. This reference launched in 2006 and continues the brand's approach to contemporary haute horlogerie complications.
The 44.5mm case is crafted from 18k white gold with a fixed bezel and sapphire crystal. Water resistance extends to 30 meters. The manual-winding caliber DB2105 movement provides a substantial 120-hour power reserve. The watch features a leather strap attachment.
This reference appeals to collectors seeking De Bethune's technical approach to timekeeping in a precious metal case. The extended power reserve and manual-wind operation position it for enthusiasts who appreciate hands-on interaction with their timepieces. The 44.5mm sizing places it in contemporary proportions within the independent watchmaking segment.
As I told you, I think you made a great move and this slate dial is a fantastic choice for the DB25 model. The hands have been changed too, compared to the silver dial's blued ones: perfect match. Thanks a lot for taking the time to share you experience and the result with us. Enjoy it well! Cheers, Mark
The transformation of the watch from the original package to the slate dial and new hands has been truly spectacular - looks like a really inspired choice you made, too. Hope you will enjoy it for a long time!
their custom orders are getting more and more...with spectacular results..no fuss,nothing is impossible,undoable. The customers wish always come true,as it should be. Building everything in house can allow you to do that. Isn't this what every brand should do?what about the golden era of special orders...this world now is too fast and marketing oriented to allow that.. Who wants regular brands anymore? This is the new frontier of exclusivity and luxury if you ask me... Congratulation on this new
Brands have explained me during years and years (even the largest one, mainly the largest ones) that personalization is very difficult due to the structure of the industry and that it is too complex to handle this type of request for third party providers. OK... I have a friend who created ihis own brand, he is able to get in less than 5 weeks a dial with the color I want and with my initials on it. He produces 200 watches per year with an average price of 3/4K euros. So here is another proof th
And the watch is really gorgeous. THanks for the post! Fx
De Bethune never had any problem in doing it ,from the simplest change to the bespoke piece(if money is not an issue). Kari also provides different dials or high personalisation..the answer you get from these brands?"No Problem,we can do it.." Others who don t have facilities or structures are reluctant to do it..because they are just "assemblers""site engeneers" not real "manufactures".... What is very irritating is that if you want to change a minor colour on a numeral or another minimal chang
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