Shop Our Debethune Watches Collection

Despite its recent founding in 2002, De Bethune has quickly risen to the top tier of independent watchmakers. In its short history, the company has developed 29 in-house calibers and registered numerous patents. One of the first of these patents was for a new balance-wheel and hairspring. These components had remained relatively unchanged in mechanical watches for centuries. Soon after, the company patented a spherical moon phase display, developed a shock-absorption system, and patented floating lugs which adjust to the wearer's wrist. De Bethune has made a number of innovations in accuracy which center around the development of several thermocompensated balance springs. In 2011, De Bethune won the Genève Aiguille d'Or Grand Prix at the Grand Prix d'Horlogerie for the DB28. The company continues to innovate in its use of materials and timekeeping methods.

Across collections, De Bethune maintains a distinct design identity. The brand consistently uses blued titanium, starry sky dials, "côtes de Bethune" finishing, and microlight engraving. Other defining features include spherical moon phases, unique hands catered to each watch design, ergonomic, floating lugs which can dynamically adjust to the wrist, and mirror polishing. In addition to the brand's aesthetic appeal, the company is known for innovative, in-house movements. The majority of De Bethune's watch collections are numbered. While earlier collections feature more classical designs, later pieces possess more futuristic aesthetics while still taking inspiration from the guiding principles of traditional watch design. Most are available in time only variations and higher complications. Even the simplest, time-only variants possess astounding technical complexity and aesthetic sophistication. Although only displaying the hours and minutes, the caliber of the DB 25 Starry Varius includes two self-regulating barrels (the component of the watch which stores and gradually distributes energy through a wound spring), producing a six day power reserve. Several patented innovations are used in the watch's escapement (the regulating organ of the movement). The DB 25 is also available in moonphase, tourbillon, dual time, and perpetual calendar variations. De Bethune also produces un-numbered collections. The Dream Watch Collection solely encompasses avant-garde timepieces which push the boundaries of traditional horology. The Dream Watch 1, for instance, has a highly irregular case shape and crown idiosyncratically positioned at twelve o'clock. The ring-shaped, silicon balance is solid and reflective. Pushers on the back of the watch may adjust the movement. The Digitale series features watches which display time in a digital fashion; in place of hands and markers, rotating disks visible through windows on the dial indicate the hours, minutes, date, and other functions.

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