De Bethune - The Hong Kong Watch Auction: XIII Hong Kong Thursday, November 25, 2021 | Phillips
  • Manufacturer: De Bethune
    Year: Circa 2002
    Reference No: DB5Y
    Case No: No. 006
    Model Name: DB5
    Material: 18K yellow gold
    Calibre: Automatic, cal. 2072, 20 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Alligator
    Clasp/Buckle: 18K yellow gold De Bethune pin buckle
    Dimensions: 42mm diameter
    Signed: Case, dial, movement and buckle signed
    Accessories: Accompanied by blank De Bethune Certificate of Authenticity, catalogues, outer packaging and fitted presentation box.

  • Catalogue Essay

    Having launched a few models in the first fiscal year, with the first model being the DB1 single-button chronograph, the firm also released the DB5 such as the present example featuring essentially the same aesthetic as the DB2, however upgraded with center seconds.

    These early models featured ogival lugs that has been embedded in the brands appeal consistent with some models that are still in production today. It is important to mention that the aesthetics and DNA has never been shifted from where the brand started but refined over the years, making De Bethune timepieces a class on its own.

    The present DB5Y in yellow gold is a stunning yet simple timepiece. Featuring a 42mm case, the guilloché dial is further complimented with blue painted Roman numerals and blued steel Breguet-style hands. A perfect fusion between the past and future. Numbered 006 on the case, the present example is one of the earliest examples of the reference to ever leave the manufacture, making this rare and desirable example even more attractive. Offered with its full set of accessories, a rare trait on its own for these early examples, it is further delivered with two period correct catalogues.

Σ1003

Ref. DB5Y
A rare and early "new-old-stock" yellow gold wristwatch with center seconds, guilloché dial, certificate and presentation box

Circa 2002
42mm diameter
Case, dial, movement and buckle signed

Estimate
HK$80,000 - 115,000 
€8,800-12,700
$10,300-14,700

Sold for HK$478,800

Contact Specialist

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

The Hong Kong Watch Auction: XIII

Hong Kong Auctions 25-26 November 2021