Massi
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Indeed....
one of the appeals for a De Bethune (not the major one, but still relevant) is that David and Denis are not marketing people, they are not even close to the many marketing gurus in the industry.
David is a connoisseur of watches and the history of watchmaking. Talking to him is a like breathing fresh air. A constant learning experience about all watches, not just his, not just contemporary ones. I like the fact he still has the collector's perspective and he brings it to the table when conceptualizing his watches.
Yes I am a FAN. So much so today I spent the whole afternoon at Atelier studying De Bethune's pieces. Because they are not just "high tech", they are a feast for the senses. They are beautiful to see, to touch, to wear. No matter how stunning a picture is (and JX did a super job here), these watches have to be sensed to be fully appreciated.
By the way, the first thing I noticed and told David is that these watches fit very well even a small wrist like mine. Their moving lugs do a great job not only at fitting to one's wrist, but also at letting the case harmonize with it. Once you wear it, it is your watch.
I have found a strong motive to save hard to buy A watch. Or two.
A look at De Bethune - the De Bethune superthread
In early December, David Zanetta and Denis Flageollet were in Singapore to present the latest creations from De Bethune. I first profiled De Bethune in 2007 when I was deeply impressed after visiting them at Basel ( click here for my Basel report of that ...
Part I: De Bethune dinner
Held at the Four Seasons hotel and hosted by retailer The Hour Glass, it was a wonderful chance to listen to David Zanetta explain the technical innovations of De Bethune who presented the 19 “innovations, inventions and patents” of De Bethune. The presen...
Part II: Presentation of De Bethune technical innovations
This is a copy of the presentation given by David Zanetta, detailing the various innovations created by De Bethune, most of which is the result of Denis Flageollet's genius. Some of the notable slides include the one detailing the evolution of the De Beth...
Part III: De Bethune DB25 Moon Phase in rose gold
The original DB25 automatic, which I like tremendously, could be accused of being plain. This version features the trademark spherical moon phase of De Bethune. The DB25 Moon Phase is available in rose or white gold, and two movement finishes: a conventio...
Part IV: De Bethune DB25 Moon Phase in white gold
The stunning blue dial is heat treated titanium with solid white gold studs pressed into the dial for the stars. Close examination of the dial reveals it is not a consistent blue colour throughout, instead it contains varies shades of blue and even bronze...
his one..I have to get. it is priced too reasonably! a perfect pair with a certain Patek.
The Emperor finish, a traditional polish, can be so damned impressive that one will not look again at "another" traditional big brand. Ever. After this, it will be simply emotional responses to mechanical sculptures like MB&F and more DB classic works...
You killing me with this
great report, have been to ION twice they just hypnotize me, I just love this DB25 the finishing just on par with the top 2 big brand Thanks JX
Part V: De Bethune Dream Watch 1 with matte dial
The Dream Watch 1 is offered in several dial variations, including this sandblasted titanium finish. The fine and even finish of the dial is amazing. This version is actually fairly subtle, the other version pictured here with the polished dial is a riot ...
regulation..
SJX, thanks for the AMAZING pictures. I did not even notice the difference between the matte/polished titanium versions until I saw your fascinating macro shots. With regards to self-regulation, I believe URWERK started offering it before De Bethune, star...
Part VI: De Bethune Dream Watch 1 with polished dial
Polishing titanium to a glossy sheen akin to that of white gold is difficult; that is why polished titanium cases are so rare. But because it is so difficult, De Bethune decided to make an entire dial – composed of multiple pieces – out of mirror-finished...
My choice for a pairing with either a Dufour or an Opus 5
So I bought one. The amazing thing is...I didn't notice this watch before. This is one disadvanatge of having TOO many watches coming at me all at one time. However, the DBD broke thru this night, with out any problem, and I did not need any persuation. I...
My Absolute favorite DeBethune now!
This futuristic piece is so magical! And the movable lugs! The finish! Next year is gonna be tough with this in the top 3 of my cognitive set!
Part VII: De Bethune Dream Watch 3 tourbillon
And finally my absolutely favourite-st watch, the Dream Watch 3. This watch contains the world’s lightest tourbillon. The escape wheel, hairspring and cage of the tourbillon are silicon, giving the whole tourbillon a weight of only 0.18 g. It is also the ...
I LOVE DB!!!!
Thanks!!!! SPECTACULAR. I may have some reservation with the cases.... on these models, but in general, I am just blown away by DB's work, and I am certain I could get past any small reservations... WOW!!!!
I am in awe!!!!
De Bethune is by far the most innovative independent out there.Their watches are stunning!The use of new tech solution is really groundbreaking.The new DB 25 MP is a dream.My own dream watch!Yours,Mo.
Amazing...
photos and writeup that portray a rising star in the entire sphere of haute horology, one that seems on pace to outshine all contenders, mainstream brands included. That DW3 is looking particularly delicious. Look forward to seeing these in the metal hope...
Very good quality and fine pieces.
In fact, they are much better than a lot of other high end brands and the independents. Regards Ling
Electrical storm.
Overdose for my brain cells and neurons, too much beauty in such a small cage. The case design it's not my fav but in terms of movement, WOW! Stunning timepiece and pictures, thanks for sharing. Vte
Great thread, SJX!
Thanks for all the work you put into this thread. It was a great read! I have tons of respect for De Bethune, and the DB26 is a true dream watch for me. I love the way De Bethune marries incredible technical innovation and a forward-thinking viewpoint wit...
I dont see too many tourbillons without an exhibition back..
I suppose all the beauty is in the front. These watches have really grown on me, did not care for them until I learned about the self adjusting mechanism and materials. Great finishing, unique watches IMO
Outstanding write up . . .
When I speak with industry insiders about which independants they most respect, De Bethune is among the two or three most often mentioned. Their watches are innovative and advanced in both technology and design, yet also incorporate traditional elements t...
Craig! The DB15 was what caught my eye from DB but...
... having seen, held and felt the DW1 on my wrist.... this is clearly my favorite DB now. It is very different in look, feel and function to the DB15 no doubt but given my extremely scarce resources, I think I can only settle for 1 DB at some point in ti...
DB15 and DB17
whats the difference between this 2 ? any pictures to show ? txs, cheng
Just a different design
The DB17 has a wider bezel than the DB15. You can see photos on Magnus Bosse's excellent article here: www.ornatus-mundi.ch - SJX
Thank you for sharing SJX!
DeBethune pieces are out of this world! I love that blue titanium sky dial! Wow, killer.
I am a fan!
Dream Watches, Digitale, Perpetual calendars. You name it, I love it. I am completely taken by this brand: the concept, the design and the execution are, to me, outstanding. I wish De Bethune all the best in getting the recognition they truly deserve. Tha...
Massi.. if ever
gentlemen from Italy and Singapore agree in totality, it is over the DBs. I thin of all the independents so far, DB has left me with the strongest and most favorable impression! And this more so given David and Denis aren't the most marketing eloquent peo...
Indeed....
one of the appeals for a De Bethune (not the major one, but still relevant) is that David and Denis are not marketing people, they are not even close to the many marketing gurus in the industry. David is a connoisseur of watches and the history of watchma...
LOL... I was at
Atelier on Thurs following the dinner doing the exact same thing. I was also fortunate enough to talk to David and Denis again that afternoon as well and also heard David share some of his views on watches with, to quote SJX whi I believe quoted David, a ...
You've outdone yourself this time my friend!
Exceptional and sincere coverage I feel. Thanks. Thanks also to The Hour Glass, David and Denis for indulging the lucky few with this event! I came away from this event with the perception of DeBethune as probably the most innovative manufacture at presen...
Brilliant!
Thank you so much for this thorough and informative post and the wealth of photos! I agree that $50k is a pretty steep price for a time-only watch with moonphase, but this might just be the one... All the best, Gary G
stunning watches and great pics thanks SJX
i think that they are all pretty stunning but if i had a chance i'd have the dream 1 polished Ti dial with that beautiful solid silicon escape wheel. it looks a different colour at every angle and i dont think i'd ever tire of looking at it. best Graham
Thank you for a wonderful thread
I didn't know a lot about this brand. But I do now. I do like the DB15 for its everyday practicality.
Since 2004, DeBethune has come a long way.....
SJX, Thanks for the mega-thread that I have finally read after being away from reliable Internet access. Back in 2004, some of us saw both DeBethune watches and Mr Zanetta for the first time during 'Tempus I' and 'PuristS International Gathering of The Tr...
