Manufacturer: De Bethune Year: Circa 2007 Reference No: DB22WS1 Case No: 01/05 Model Name: DB22 Material: 18k white gold Calibre: Automatic, cal DB2024, 47 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Alligator Clasp/Buckle: 18k white gold De Bethune pin buckle Dimensions: 48mm Diameter Signed: Case, dial, movement and buckle signed Accessories: Accompanied by De Bethune Certificate of Origin Literature: De Bethune is featured in Watchmakers: The Masters of Art Horology by Maxima Gallery pp. 104-121
Catalogue Essay
De Bethune movements and designs are constant evolutions showcasing the brand’s cutting edge and innovative approach.
For Denis Flageollet, the co-founder of De Bethune as well as its master watchmaker, innovation is the guiding principle of watchmaking. Rather than simply modifying or improving traditional techniques, he takes a precise mathematical and scientific approach with regards to the technical process, case and movement architecture, and finishing of each of his watches. All this results in some of the most visually striking and masterful products in contemporary horology. Since its inception in 2002, De Bethune has given birth to over thirty in-house calibers and a dozen patent registrations, constantly debuting new and exciting innovations.
The DB22 -launched in 2007- was not only a mechanical marvel with the brand’s signature titanium/platinum balance wheel, balance-spring with flat terminal curve, triple pare-chute shock-absorbing system and 6 day power reserve (indicated via the grill like aperture at 12 o’clock) but also a breakthrough design with the brand’s first foray in a more sports oriented look.
The DB22 with light grey dial was produced in only 13 pieces. The present example is part of the pre series made to be tested and presented to the press and retailers and numbered 1/5.